The 2025 NSW Premier’s Awards for Outstanding Cancer Research have celebrated two University of Sydney researchers for their pioneering work in cancer care and health communication. Professor Paul Keall was named Outstanding Cancer Researcher of the Year, NSW’s highest accolade for cancer research, and Dr Brooke Nickel won the Outstanding Early Career Researcher Award.

Presented at the annual ceremony at Parliament House in Sydney by Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Research David Harris, the prizes recognise outstanding researchers whose commitment and talent has had a significant impact on cancer treatment, clinical trials, prevention and research across NSW.  

Premier Chris Minns commended the winners for their contributions to improving cancer outcomes. “NSW continues to lead the world in cancer research and we are committed to continued investment in research and innovation to better understand a disease that impacts so many in our state,” he said.

NSW Chief Cancer Officer and CEO of Cancer Institute of NSW, Professor Tracey O’Brien, said: “Every 10 minutes, another person receives a diagnosis that changes everything. Research and innovation open doors to new hope for people affected by cancer. I commend the dedicated NSW research teams who are transforming care and strengthening our communities.” 

Professor Paul Keall

Director of the Image X Institute, Professor Paul Keall is a world-leading medical physicist whose research has revolutionised cancer imaging and radiation therapy. His innovations, including 4DCT and CT Ventilation Imaging, have improved treatment precision and outcomes for millions of patients globally. 

Professor Keall said: “It is a real honour to be in the very illustrious company of other researchers of the year. This is a satisfying and meaningful team award, recognising many people I have worked with over the years including clinical partners, researchers and patients who have given us their time and trust. 

“Through improving precision cancer targeting technology, we are changing patient outcomes around the world, increasing the chance of cure while minimising side effects and improving patients’ quality of life.”

Professor Keall’s work not only advances cancer care but also strengthens NSW’s research ecosystem by creating new medical devices, clinical trials and training opportunities for the next generation of scientists. 

Dr Brooke Nickel

Dr Brooke Nickel, is an NHMRC Emerging Leader Research Fellow in the School of Public Health. She was recognised for her research into evidence-based cancer communication and decision-making. Dr Nickel’s work addresses the psycho-social impact of cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment, helping the public and patients navigate complex health decisions with clarity and confidence. 

Dr Nickel leads the world’s first randomised controlled trial on breast density notification, ensuring changes to population-based screening programs are grounded in evidence. Her research has been published in leading journals and featured in The New York Times and the BBC. 

Dr Nickel said: “My mission is to help people navigate health decisions, including in the context of cancer, by improving the clarity, accuracy and transparency of medical information. This award recognises the importance of communication in achieving better health outcomes for all.” 

Dr Inês Esteves Domingues Pires da Silva

Associate Professor Inês Esteves Domingues Pires da Silva was honoured for her innovative work in cancer research and her commitment to improving patient outcomes that personalise cancer care. 

Dr Silva’s contributions include developing novel imaging techniques that enhance tumour targeting and reduce treatment-related toxicity, ensuring patients receive safer and more effective therapies. Her work has been instrumental in expanding access to advanced cancer treatments across NSW and internationally.