Celebrating brilliance and generosity: Our 2025 Researcher of the Year Reception
By the Cure Cancer Team | 18 June 2025
Top row, left to right: Dr Heather Murray, A/Prof Shuai Li, Adam Moore, Dr Mohamed Saad, A/Prof Fernando Guimaraes. Bottom row: Cure Cancer CEO Vanessa Barry, Mr Dennis Wilson, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Eddy Agcaoili. Photos by Domino Jack Photography.
On Monday 16 June, we gathered at the stunning Government House in Sydney for one of the most meaningful moments on Cure Cancer’s calendar—our annual Researcher of the Year Reception.
This event is more than a celebration. It’s our chance to honour the people at the heart of our mission: the emerging researchers whose bold ideas are changing the future of cancer, and the passionate supporters who make their work possible.
Graciously hosted by Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales, and Mr Dennis Wilson, the evening brought together researchers, donors, volunteers, ambassadors, and friends in one shared space—to reflect, recognise, and inspire. We are deeply thankful to Her Excellency and Mr Wilson for opening their home to our community and helping us mark this special occasion in such a personal and powerful way.
At Cure Cancer, we believe that the best breakthroughs begin with brave thinking. But in today’s hyper-competitive funding landscape, early-career researchers are often overlooked—despite having the potential to make real change. That’s where we come in.
Our Researcher of the Year Awards recognise emerging scientists who have made outstanding progress in their field, often thanks to the early support of a Cure Cancer grant. These awards aren't just about past success—they celebrate the promise of what’s to come. Because when brilliant minds are given the chance to thrive, the impact can ripple out to save lives.
Researcher of the Year Winner A/Prof Shuai Li and Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC
This year’s top honour went to Associate Professor Shuai Li, a global leader in cancer risk modelling based at the University of Melbourne. A/Prof Li’s work is transforming the way breast cancer is predicted and prevented, with research that has already shaped international clinical guidelines and influenced care around the world.
Dr Mohamed Saad with Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC
Dr Mohamed Saad, runner-up and senior postdoctoral fellow at the University of Adelaide, was recognised for his pioneering research into protease biology and lung cancer. Dr Saad’s work focuses on the enzyme ADAM17, revealing its therapeutic potential and leading to collaborations with international pharmaceutical companies. His findings have opened new pathways for treatment in both cancer and inflammatory lung diseases.
Dr Heather Murray and Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC
Dr Heather Murray, postdoctoral researcher at the University of Newcastle, was awarded third place for her leadership in cancer proteomics and her work advancing precision therapies for acute myeloid leukaemia. Dr Murray has published extensively, filed a patent, and laid the foundation for future clinical trials—all while championing co-designed research with patients and supporting the next generation of scientists through mentoring and advocacy. Her 2024 2024 grant was generously funded by the Bobbin Head Cruising Club.
Alongside our researchers, we were thrilled to present two Inspire Awards, recognising individuals whose exceptional fundraising and advocacy make life-saving research possible.
Inspire Award winner: Eddy Agcaoili, with Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC
Edwin Agcaoili was honoured for his tireless commitment to Cure Cancer through BarbeCURE. With the support of his colleagues at SC Johnson & Son, Edwin has raised more than $111,000—funding over 1,000 hours of cancer research and inspiring others through his leadership, heart, and unwavering dedication.
Inspire award winner Chef Adam Moore with Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales
Chef Adam Moore, long-time ambassador and beloved media personality, was recognised for his generosity and creativity in rallying support through food. From hosting BarbeCURE events to using his platform to amplify the cause, Adam has been a passionate voice for early-career cancer researchers and a source of joy and community for everyone involved.
