Rodney Scott

Biography

Inherited forms of cancer have been my main interest for around 20 years. The research I have been involved first focused on the identification of genes associated with with inherited forms of colorectal cancer and breast cancer. The research area proved to be extremely successful as it really set the scene for our current understanding of the genetic basis of malignancy. Since the identification of genetic susceptibilities my research interests have focused on better defining these inherited entities such that more appropriate intervention strategies can be developed. Initially, much emphasis was placed on recognising genotype/phenotype correlations with disease and as such the research I have undertaken has done much to define such relationships. More recently, the role of modifier genes in disease penetrance has been a major thematic area and data forthcoming from these studies indicates that there are additional disease susceptibilities that are important in assessing individual risk on a genetic background of high risk. This research is now beginning to be translated to the general population as it represents the first tentative move towards determining cancer risk in the general population. With increasing emphasis on disease prevention it is to be expected that this research will continue to flourish. My research career took off in Switzerland where I consolidated a centre dedicated to the study of inherited predispositions to cancer. During this period of my research career I was heavily involved in the identification of genetic predispositions to breast cancer and bowel cancer and through my activities supervised 4 PhD students who have since had excellent careers in medical research. The research that I am focused on is consistent with two of Australia's national priorities, healthy aging and a healthy start to life.

Research Interest

Clinical Sciences, Oncology and Carcinogenesis, Genetics