A leading Western Australian cancer researcher has been named the Cure Cancer 2026 Researcher of the Year for his groundbreaking work in paediatric leukaemia.

Associate Professor Laurence Cheung — from Curtin University’s School of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Sciences, the Curtin Medical Research Institute and The Kids Research Institute Australia (part of the WA Comprehensive Kids Cancer Centre) — was recognised for his research in developing more effective treatments for children with high-risk leukaemia, especially those with limited treatment options or whose cancer has relapsed.

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia is the most common cancer in children, with about 300 new cases each year in Australia, including 30 to 40 in Western Australia.

Curtin Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research Professor Melinda Fitzgerald said the accolade recognised the significance of Associate Professor Cheung’s research and its potential to deliver real-world benefits for children and families affected by cancer.

“Associate Professor Cheung’s work is a powerful example of how discovery-driven research can open new possibilities for patients with limited treatment options, and we are proud to see his dedication recognised on the national stage,” Professor Fitzgerald said.

Associate Professor Cheung said the award provided a valuable platform to accelerate efforts to develop better treatments for children facing leukaemia.

“Childhood leukaemia is one of the great success stories of modern medicine, with most children now surviving. But for some children, especially those with high-risk forms of the disease, current treatments are still not enough,” Associate Professor Cheung said.

“Our goal is to find safer and more effective treatments for children whose cancer is harder to treat, so more young patients have the chance to recover and live healthy lives.

“Receiving this award is a tremendous privilege and a meaningful recognition of the collective efforts of my research team, collaborators, patients, and families who inspire our work every day.”

Cure Cancer Chief Executive Officer Vanessa Barry said: “Laurence has used early philanthropic support exactly as it is intended: to build evidence, attract further investment, and keep children and families at the centre of the research. His progress shows how backing an emerging researcher can create impact far beyond the original grant, and we are proud to recognise him as our 2026 Researcher of the Year.”