Professor who self-treated brain cancer dies at 59

Professor Richard Scolyer, who courageously became a 'guinea pig' to test a pioneering brain cancer therapy, has died at 59, concluding an inspiring battle.

Richard Scolyer, a world-renowned cancer research expert, passed away on the evening of 7/6 in Australia, according to The Guardian. His death at 59 concludes an inspiring life journey and a valiant battle against glioblastoma.

Before his passing, Professor Scolyer penned a letter expressing profound gratitude to his family, the people of Australia, and the international community for their support throughout his fight. His departure marks the end of a powerful, inspiring journey, yet it simultaneously opens new avenues of hope for global medicine.

Following Scolyer's death, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with numerous colleagues and medical experts, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of an exceptional intellect and a great personality.

The late professor's unique medical journey began in May 2023 when he received a diagnosis of inoperable grade 4 glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer with a survival prognosis rarely exceeding one year. Instead of adhering to traditional treatment protocols, Professor Scolyer, alongside his close colleague Professor Georgina Long, proactively devised a bold, unprecedented treatment plan. He became the world's first brain cancer patient to undergo a combined pre-surgical immunotherapy approach, coupled with a personalized vaccine designed specifically for his tumor's characteristics. This innovative treatment aimed to train his immune system to destroy malignant cells.

Professor Scolyer and his family on Christmas morning at the Greenway Parkrun event. Photo: Instagram/profrscolyer

This method had only previously been tested on animals and a small group of neuroblastoma patients. The medical gamble yielded promising initial results, rendering him cancer-free for 10 months, far exceeding doctors' initial prognoses.

However, in early 2025, his condition relapsed with clear neurological damage. By March, a CT scan confirmed the brain tumor's progression, just before he was due to participate in a 4-day charity bike ride in Tasmania. Despite facing this challenge, the professor maintained an optimistic spirit, affirming he still had much work to accomplish.

Professor Scolyer's courage in becoming a clinical trial subject not only extended his own life but also made significant contributions to global cancer research. Previously, he and Professor Georgina Long were jointly named "Australian of the Year 2024" for their groundbreaking work in applying immunotherapy to treat advanced melanoma. The expert also received the New South Wales Premier's Award for Outstanding Cancer Research 9 times.

In his final letter, the late professor expressed his wish that his story would ease the battle against illness for future generations of patients. He hoped to be remembered as an ordinary Australian who always gave his best, thereby inspiring the community to pursue their passions with compassion and humility.