Your impact
Reframing all cancers as treatable, liveable, beatable.
Mater Research leads a dynamic and compassionate cancer research program focused on improving outcomes for people affected by cancer.
Mater researchers and clinicians are investigating the underlying biology of both solid and blood cancers, working to improve how cancer is diagnosed, treated, and managed—including through palliative care.
From developing cutting-edge therapies and running clinical trials to exploring personalised medicine and innovative technologies, Mater Research is driven by a commitment to transforming lives through evidence-based care.
Beyond ongoing work to further the lead discoveries of Professors Kristen Radford, John Hooper, Brian Gabrielli and their teams—future Smiddy funding will also extend to several other pioneering efforts across Mater’s multi-faceted approach to cancer research.
The identification of the cell subtype cDC1 by Professor Radford right here in southeast Queensland is a seminal discovery in the field of cancer immunology right around the world. It is a key player in the immune system’s ability to recognise and protect the body from cancer.
This breakthrough has enabled the Mater Research team to take immunotherapy to the next level with a ‘guided missile’ cancer vaccine.
Progressing this work along the translational pathway towards a clinical trial to benefit cancer patients is our next key priority.
Other key initiatives include the work of Professor Geoff Faulkner's team in exploring hidden DNA clues to improve lung cancer survival, and Dr Joshua Tobin's work into training the immune system to fight blood cancer.
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| Active cancer clinical research studies, including pioneering clinical trials and cohort studies. |
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| Researchers are led by two program co-leads and supported by six group leaders. |
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| Major biobanks, underpinning many programs from discovery and translational research, through to clinical trials. |
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| Key focus on tumours and blood cancers, with dedicated research groups that are advancing breakthroughs in women’s cancers. |
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| Strong clinical interface with Mater Health, who offer clinical trials to Mater patients as part of their treatment. |
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| At the forefront of global discovery, translating cancer vaccines and precision approaches to improve diagnosis and care. |
We've guided thousands of athletes through their Smiddy journey, let us guide you.
We want your Challenge experience to be truly rewarding.
The Mater Uncancer Smiddy Team has guided thousands of athletes of all abilities to achieve their goals. To help you be successful we have developed a series of fundraising and training resources to get you started. But if like us you prefer a chat please reach out—we are always up for a chat about cycling and fundraising.
Check out the fundraising and training resources below, or send us a message via the contact form to speak with the team.
