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11/25: BC Cancer Agency Researcher Receives Prestigious Award for Cancer Research
Dr. Wan Lam, Senior Scientist at the BC Cancer Agency (BCCA), is the recipient of the prestigious 2006 William E. Rawls Prize for his innovative cancer research. He was awarded the prize at the BC Cancer Agency’s Annual Awards Banquet on November 24.
Sponsored by the Canadian Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute of Canada, the William E. Rawls Prize is awarded to an investigator whose work has led to important advances in cancer control within the past decade. The prize comes with $1,000 for the recipient and $20,000 for their research.
"Dr. Lam's celebrated discoveries have advanced our understanding of cancer," says Barbara Kaminsky, CEO for the Canadian Cancer Society, B.C. and Yukon Division. “His work supports the Canadian Cancer Society's commitment to funding world-class research, which includes more than $19 million in B.C.-based projects over the last five years."
Dr. Lam is well known for his work on the genetic causes of a variety of cancers including lung, oral, breast and lymphoma. His focus on early-stage cancer continues to advance our understanding of the genetic alterations that trigger cancer, and this is leading to progress in early diagnosis and treatment.
“We are fortunate to have such an innovative scientist like Dr. Lam as part of our research team at the BC Cancer Agency,” said Dr. Victor Ling, Vice President of Discovery, BC Cancer Agency.
Dr. Lam has developed a new microarray technology that has made it possible to see the entire human genome at once in 32,000 overlapping DNA segments. This technology, which makes is easier to detect the gain or loss of key genes in tumour genomes, has revolutionized cancer gene discovery and is now used by researchers all over the world.
“Apart from being a researcher, Dr. Lam is also an exemplary teacher and mentor,” says Dr. Simon Sutcliffe, President, BC Cancer Agency. “Colleagues and students alike continue to benefit from Dr. Lam’s knowledge and expertise.”
Dr. Lam has established interdisciplinary collaborations with researchers in Canada and around the world. He is also a clinical associate professor of pathology and laboratory medicine at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver.
Past recipients of the William E. Rawls Prize include: Dr. Linda Cook (2004), Dr. Daniel Dumont (2003), Dr. Charles Boone (2002), and Dr. Martin Gleave (2001).
The BC Cancer Agency, a part of the Provincial Health Services Authority, is committed to reducing the incidence of cancer, reducing the mortality from cancer, and improving the quality of life of those living with cancer. It provides a comprehensive cancer control program for the people of British Columbia by working with community partners to deliver a range of oncology services, including prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, research, education, supportive care, rehabilitation and palliative care. The BC Cancer Foundation raises funds to support research and enhancements to patient care at the BC Cancer Agency.
For more information, please contact:
Jinny Wu
Communications Specialist
BC Cancer Agency
604.877.6272
Toll-free: 1.800.663.3333, ex 6272
jwu2@bccancer.bc.ca
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