Professor Richard Scolyer, a world-renowned melanoma researcher, has left an open letter to the public following his death from brain cancer.

Scolyer was a former Australian of the Year whose work in oncology provided significant advancements in cancer treatment. His final message serves as a reflection on a life dedicated to science and a call for others to lead lives rooted in kindness.

The open letter was published on June 8, 2026 [3]. In the message, Scolyer asked that he be remembered not only for his academic achievements but as a citizen who approached life with determination. "I would be delighted and humbled to be remembered as a proud everyday Aussie who ‘gave it a crack’," Scolyer said [1].

Scolyer died at age 59 [1]. He had been battling a glioblastoma brain tumour since his diagnosis in 2023 [2]. Despite the severity of the condition, he spent his final years focusing on his legacy and the encouragement of future generations.

In his final words, he urged Australians to maintain a balance between ambition and empathy. "Pursue your dreams and passion with humility, love, and compassion," Scolyer said [2]. He emphasized that the pursuit of excellence should not come at the expense of human connection.

The professor's career was defined by revolutionary research into melanoma and brain cancer. His transition from a leading scientist to a patient of the very diseases he studied highlighted the urgency of ongoing medical research, a cause he championed until the end.

His request to be seen as an "everyday Aussie" reflects a desire to remain grounded despite his international prestige. "I want to be remembered as a proud everyday Aussie who gave it a crack," Scolyer said [1].

“"I would be delighted and humbled to be remembered as a proud everyday Aussie who ‘gave it a crack’"”

The death of Professor Richard Scolyer represents a significant loss to the global oncology community, particularly in melanoma and glioblastoma research. By publishing a final open letter, Scolyer shifted the narrative of his passing from a medical tragedy to a philosophical lesson on humility. His request to be remembered as an ordinary citizen who 'gave it a crack' serves to democratize the image of scientific success, suggesting that high achievement is most valuable when paired with compassion and a grounded identity.