2005 Young Tall Poppy Science Award Recipient

Dr Deborah Marsh
Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital and the University of Sydney

Approximately one in every 2000 Australians have an overactive parathyroid gland (hyperparathyroidism). Women who have undergone menopause are more likely to develop this disease, which is characterised by loss of calcium from the bones and can be a cause of kidney stones and osteoporosis. Dr Deborah Marsh is a molecular geneticist who is conducting research into the development of inherited and non-inherited cancers, with a focus on tumours affecting endocrine organs such as the parathyroid, as well as ovarian cancer.

Working with a team of researchers, Deborah aims to identify the molecular markers of cancer and study the genetic causes of an overactive parathyroid with the ultimate aim of identifying earlier diagnostics and suitable treatment for this disease. In 2005, Deborah was awarded a highly prestigious three year Cancer Institute NSW Fellowship and in 2006 the Premier's Award for Excellence in Cancer Research.

After completing her PhD in Sydney, Deborah undertook three years of postdoctoral study at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School. One of the highlights was her role in the discovery of the novel tumour suppressor gene PTEN as the gene involved in the breast, thyroid and endometrial cancer syndrome known as Cowden Syndrome. PTEN, and the cellular functions it regulates, have subsequently been shown to have a role in the development of a broad range of human malignancies, and is currently a primary target of interest in the field of molecular diagnostics and therapeutics. Deborah’s post-doctoral career has included being awarded an NHMRC RD Wright Fellowship and her research has attracted funding in excess of 2 million dollars.

Deborah has participated in scientific documentaries, radio interviews and has spoken to school and other community groups about her research.

Deborah received a Young Tall Poppy Science Award in 2005.