The National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases (NCARD) is thrilled to announce that Nicola Principe has been named Student Scientist of the Year at the 2024 Premier’s Science Awards. This award recognises Nicola’s outstanding contributions to cancer research and her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge in Western Australia.
Image: Nicola Principe.
Nicola’s journey at NCARD has been inspiring. Speaking to the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, she shared how her research career began with a desire to improve treatment options for cancer patients, particularly after witnessing friends and family members face rare cancers.
“My research focuses on a rare cancer called mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos; it affects a lot of Western Australians because we used to mine asbestos in Western Australia. I really have a passion to improve treatment options for hard to treat cancers.”
Nicola Principe, NCARD
Nicola’s work in immunotherapy targeting mesothelioma, a therapy-resistant cancer, has significantly advanced our understanding of this devastating disease.
In addition to her research, Nicola has demonstrated outstanding leadership and a passion for fostering a supportive scientific environment. As a co-founder of the WA Kindness in Science initiative, she has been instrumental in promoting a culture of collaboration and compassion within the research community. Her efforts have led to tangible improvements, including enhanced mental health support for PhD students at the University of Western Australia.
Nicola is also committed to advancing STEM in Western Australia. Through her involvement with the Perkins BioDiscovery Centre, she plays a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of scientists by providing students with hands-on experience in a working laboratory environment.
Image: Premier’s Science Awards 2024.
This award is a testament to Nicola’s excellence across multiple facets of scientific endeavour—from research with real-world impact to leadership and community engagement. Her achievements highlight the world-class research at NCARD and WA more broadly.
We congratulate Nicola on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to her continued contributions to cancer research.
Watch the award ceremony here (Student Scientist of the Year presentation begins at 2:01:50).