What first sparked your interest in science?

Chemistry and maths were my favourite subjects from the start – I was a bit of a science geek!

Looking back over your career, what achievements are you most proud of?

I’m very proud of my team’s work that led to the identification of breast stem cells and ‘cells of origin’ in breast cancer.

From a clinical perspective, we feel fortunate to have taken findings from the bench to the clinic through an international prevention trial that has been enabled by my close collaborator, WEHI clinician scientist Professor Geoff Lindeman.

More broadly, I am exceedingly proud of the many talented students and postdocs who trained in our lab and have gone on to become successful researchers in their own right.

The road to discovery can be long. How has your understanding of success changed over the years?

Success comes in many forms, not only in scientific discoveries and publications in high-quality journals, but through the training and mentoring of the next generation of scientists. The two go hand-in-hand, but seeding the next generation of scientists is the most important aspect, and a legacy I’m very proud of.

You’ve mentored many researchers throughout your career. What do you enjoy most about that role?

Sharing the excitement and enthusiasm of making discoveries and the paths that they take us on.

Science is very much a team sport. The hard work, camaraderie and passion of our team members and collaborators have led to a number of fundamental discoveries and genuine “eureka” moments.

In a similar vein, I received training from exceptional mentors at many stages of my career, who absolutely shaped where I am today.

What does being included on the Victorian Honour Roll of Women mean to you?

I’m very humbled to receive this prestigious recognition and to join the many inspirational women on the Honour Roll.

I hope this recognition will help raise awareness of the importance of supporting fundamental as well as translational research. Research is a slow and long-term endeavour, requiring dedicated team input and sustained funding support.

What do you hope is possible for the next generation of women scientists?

Since the start of my career, huge strides have been made in providing support to women in science and creating more opportunities for them to succeed.

The sky is the limit for the next generation of women scientists.

My hope for the future is that we can reduce deaths from breast cancer through improved therapies and through the prevention of cancers arising in women at high risk.