Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre poised to accelerate new treatments

Following an international search, eminent Australian clinician scientist Professor Grant McArthur has been appointed to lead the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre as Executive Director.

One of Australia’s most respected and dynamic cancer experts, Professor McArthur brings a wealth of experience and a personal and professional determination to see Victoria’s world-class cancer research accelerated into better outcomes for patients.

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Chair Linda Kristjanson said Professor McArthur joins the organisation at a critical juncture.

“The Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre is poised to make significant strides in cancer prevention, treatment and care," Professor Kristjanson said.

"Professor McArthur brings an elite level of knowledge and expertise and a passion for cancer research and treatment, combined with an international perspective that will be catalytic for the VCCC.

“The VCCC building is established; key education, leadership, research and clinical programs are in place and a major strategic research plan is in development.

"Now the true potential of this unique and powerful alliance can be harnessed to accelerate knowledge from the laboratory to better outcomes for patients in Victoria and beyond.”

Professor McArthur said he was incredibly excited about the opportunity to lead the VCCC to enhance the international standing of Victoria in cancer research, education and patient care.

“I am particularly excited about the prospects of taking a team-oriented approach to the challenges of cancer with the world-leading partners in the VCCC," he said.

"It is an absolute privilege to be given the opportunity to lead and work with the talented cancer community that we have here in Victoria.

“Being a cancer survivor gives me personal insight into the worries and fears of cancer patients and their families.

"Together with other cancer survivors I can share my passion and that of the families of all cancer patients for taking the fear out of a cancer diagnosis. The VCCC will mean that a Victorian with cancer will get world’s best care.”

Professor McArthur will start as Executive Director of the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre on 3 April 2017. He is currently the inaugural Lorenzo Galli Chair of Melanoma and Skin Cancers at the University of Melbourne and Associate Director of Research Translation and Head of the Cancer Therapeutics Program at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.