Recipient of the prestigious American Society of Haematology Global Research Award, Sri Lankan born Dr Jay Gunawardana is at the forefront of a breakthrough in the treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma subtype through immunotherapy.
How did you develop an interest in science? Why did you choose to become a scientist?
I’ve always been fascinated by the unknown. I was that kid in class who wanted to know how, why and when something occurred. There aren’t many careers where ‘insatiable curiosity’ is celebrated!
Who inspires you in the field of cancer research?
Interestingly, my inspiration is not a researcher, but a patient named Terry Fox. He ran a marathon across Canada to raise money and awareness despite having a leg amputated due to cancer. To date, over $750 million has been raised in his name.
What is your specialty and why did you choose it?
My research focuses on lymphomas which is the most common type of blood cancer. As a student unsure of
which specialty to pursue, I witnessed the devastation this disease caused in a fellow classmate. That’s when I knew what my calling in life was.
How long have you been in research? Did you start your career as a cancer biologist?
I’ve been in medical research for 20 years. I started as an infectious disease researcher and transitioned to studying cancers as it aligned better with my professional interests.
Words: Tina Edward Gunawardhana
