Professor Richard Scolyer, a world-renowned melanoma scientist and former Australian of the Year, died Monday at age 59 [1].
Scolyer was a leading figure in cancer research whose work significantly improved outcomes for melanoma patients. His death marks the loss of a prominent medical researcher and a public figure known for his contributions to Australian science.
He died June 8, 2026 [4], following a three-year battle with a glioblastoma brain tumour [3]. Scolyer was first diagnosed with the disease in 2023 [2].
In an open-letter "final farewell," Scolyer shared his wishes for how he should be remembered by the public. He emphasized a desire for humility over his professional accolades, a sentiment that mirrored his public persona throughout his career.
"I would be delighted and humbled to be remembered as a proud everyday Aussie who 'gave it a crack'" Scolyer said [1].
Scolyer's career was defined by his work in immunotherapy, which transformed the treatment of advanced skin cancers. Despite his professional success, his final message focused on his identity as an ordinary citizen.
"I want to be remembered as a proud everyday Aussie who gave it a crack" Scolyer said [2].
His death comes after years of advocating for better cancer treatments and patient care across Australia. Colleagues and public officials have recognized his impact on both the scientific community and the broader national identity.
“"I would be delighted and humbled to be remembered as a proud everyday Aussie who 'gave it a crack'"”
The death of Professor Scolyer represents a significant loss to the global oncology community, particularly in the field of melanoma immunotherapy. His decision to release a final open letter highlights a personal effort to decouple his scientific legacy from his identity as a citizen, emphasizing a cultural value of modesty and persistence in the face of a terminal diagnosis.
