A cancer researcher who was inspired to become a scientist by the death of her mother has been awarded a prestigious Col Reynolds Fellowship by The Kids’ Cancer Project.
As part of The Kids’ Cancer Project’s 30th anniversary, a fellowship has been established in the name of founder Col Reynolds OAM. Dr Noa Lamm-Shalem is among the first to receive this honour.
In January of this year, Dr Lamm was promoted from senior postdoctoral scientist in the Genome Integrity Unit of Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI) to become the founder and leader of our newest research team, the Nuclear Dynamics Group. This team focuses on the fundamental causes of cancer – a disease with which she has a very personal connection.
“My motivation is deeply rooted in my family history, which was profoundly impacted by the devastating effects of inherited breast cancer,’’ Dr Lamm said. “During my childhood, I lost my mother to this relentless disease. She was only 32 years when diagnosed, but she had felt a lump a year before that. Unfortunately, her doctor reassured her that breast cancer doesn't strike at such a young age, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Despite her courageous battle, she passed away at the age of 40, just like my grandmother before her.’’
When she was very young, Dr Lamm was amazed when a genetic cause of these cancers was found.
“This revelation sparked within me a deep appreciation for the significance of basic science and how it can profoundly impact lives, including my own,’’ Dr Lamm said. “From a relatively young age, I knew that my life's calling was to pursue a career in research, with a particular focus on cancer research. I am driven by the desire to contribute to the ongoing efforts to understand, combat, and ultimately defeat cancer. I hope to make a meaningful difference and honour the memory of my mother and grandmother by helping others who are facing similar challenges.’’
Dr Lamm’s project will delve into the mechanisms that cancers use to become resistant to treatments. She will focus on childhood cancers, including acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, neuroblastoma, and Ewing sarcoma.
“By shedding light on this crucial aspect of cancer research, we hope to pave the way for more effective and compassionate treatments, offering renewed hope to young cancer patients and their families.’’
Dad Jonathan Himford watched his daughter Abbey go through cancer treatment and said without research she may not be here today.
"We could still be in the dark and not know anything about her cancer and then it could be too late. We are so thankful to researchers.''
Dr Lamm said being selected for the prestigious Col Reynolds Research Fellowship is an extraordinary honour.
“This is a significant milestone, especially for a young lab head like myself who has recently established an independent research lab. This Fellowship represents a tremendous opportunity, providing vital financial resources and recognition that will empower me and my team to embark on original and hopefully groundbreaking research in the field of childhood cancer. I am truly grateful for this validation of my passion for addressing the most critical challenges in paediatric cancer.”