19 Oct 2023
Immunology trailblazer Professor Laura Mackay named inaugural AAMRI Rising Star
In a resounding acknowledgment of her pioneering work in immunology, University of Melbourne’s Professor Laura Mackay, a Laboratory Head and Immunology Theme Leader at the Doherty Institute, was awarded the inaugural AAMRI Rising Star award, presented by the Hon. Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health and Aged Care.
Professor Mackay has been at the forefront of immunology research for over a decade and the prestigious award highlights her remarkable contributions to the field which revolutionised our understanding of immunity.
A decade ago, Professor Mackay and her team conducted groundbreaking research to understand a previously unknown population of tissue-resident memory T cells (TRM) – a critical first line of defence against infection and cancer. In a series of landmark studies, Professor Mackay has since demonstrated how these memory T cells can be harnessed for potential vaccination and cancer treatments. These breakthroughs have significantly changed the thinking on future research in immunity, vaccinology and cancer immunotherapy.
“There is no doubt that Professor Mackay’s work created a paradigm shift in the field of immunology,” said Dr Saraid Billiards, CEO of the Association of Australian Medical Research Institutes (AAMRI).
“When we talk about rising stars, we’re looking for people who are going to be leading the way in the next health crisis, or changing how we think about a particular disease. Laura has already done that and is now building on that scientific excellence,” said Dr Billiards.
Dr Andrew Nash, Head of Research and Chief Scientific Officer at CSL, sponsor of the award, said, “Professor Mackay is undertaking fundamental research that could transform cancer treatment in the coming decades. As the inaugural AAMRI Rising Star, we hope her research and mentorship inspires a whole new generation of Australian researchers to forge discoveries and treatments for people living with cancer or other rare or serious disease.”
Professor Mackay said she was deeply honoured to receive the inaugural AAMRI Rising Star award and expressed her gratitude to AAMRI and CSL for the recognition.
Professor Kathryn North AC, AAMRI President, Professor Laura Mackay and the The Hon Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health and Aged Care.
“My journey in immunology has been one of curiosity, passion and dedication. It's a privilege to contribute to a better understanding of the human body's response to infection, and I am excited about the potential we've uncovered in tissue-resident memory T cells,” she said.
“This recognition is also a testament to the exceptional team of researchers who I work alongside, and I thank them for striving for excellence. This award will inspire us to continue pushing the boundaries of knowledge in our pursuit of innovative solutions to complex health challenges.”
Professor Mackay has been honoured to receive a number of distinguished awards and grants, both locally and globally, and in 2022 was the youngest ever Fellow elected to the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (AAHMS). Beyond research, she has received numerous awards for her leadership in international scientific societies and boards, as well as her remarkable mentoring and communication of science.
Visit the AAMRI website for more information on the AAMRI Rising Star Award: https://aamri.org.au