The Robert Sutherland Award

Professor Robert Sutherland AO was the Director of the Cancer Research Program at the Garvan Institute for 27 years, Senior Principal Research Fellow of the National Health and Medical Research Council and inaugural Director of the Kinghorn Cancer Centre in Darlinghurst. He was a former Board member of the Australian Cancer Research Foundation, Cancer Council NSW and Cancer Institute NSW and served on various committees including the National Health and Medical Research Council. 

In 2010 he received the NSW Premier’s Award for Outstanding Cancer Researcher and was made an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) “for distinguished service to medicine as an international contributor to the research of cancer, the development of Australia’s research capacity and through leadership roles in advisory bodies”.

2022 Award Recipient Professor Laura Esserman with Professor Geoff Lindeman.

Award Details

The Robert Sutherland Award for Excellence in Translational Research recognises Translational Researchers and their achievements and contributions to improved patient outcomes as well as scientific excellence. The recipient will be invited to present a lecture at the 2024 Breast Cancer Trials (BCT) Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM), will receive travel support to attend the ASM and a financial contribution of up to $10,000 towards their research or professional development. The award is open to Translational Researchers worldwide. The Award is offered annually, and if awarded presented at the ASM. The award will be made at the discretion of the Board.

  • The Award will cover the cost of attending the 2023 BCT ASM including return economy class airfares, accommodation for the duration of the ASM and full registration. All travel and registration for the successful applicant will be organised through the ASM Secretariat.
  • A financial contribution up to $10,000 towards supporting the recipient’s research or professional development. 

Eligibility Criteria

  • This award is open to Translational Researchers worldwide, who wish to enhance their knowledge of clinical research, in particular breast cancer clinical trials research.
  • The recipient does not need to be a member of BCT but must be nominated by a Full Member of BCT.

Awardee Responsibilities

  • The Robert Sutherland Award for Excellence in Translational Research recipient will be invited to present a lecture at the ASM.

Selection Process

  • Nominations will include a CV and supporting statement from the Nominator/Referee. The Nominator/Referee must be a Full Member of BCT.
  • Nominations are considered by the BCT Awards Committee and awarded at the discretion of BCT Board of Directors.
  • Nominators will be notified of the outcome of their nomination once the Awards Committee has made its decision.

Applications for the 2024 Robert Sutherland Award have now closed.