A key focus for GI Cancer Trials is fostering the development of early career researchers. In 2022 we introduced the ‘Early Career Researcher Award for Excellence in GI Cancer Research’ to recognise the next generation of research leaders and support their career development. Awardees receive up to $2,000 to cover flights, accommodation and registration to attend the next GI Cancer Trials Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM).
In this article, we feature Dr Cass White, medical oncologist, clinician-researcher and recipient of the 2025 Early Career Researcher Award for Excellence in GI Cancer Research.
“GI cancer is a tumour stream that I enjoy treating in clinical practice,” says Cass. “It is great to be able to see the gaps within clinical management and actually be a part of the research front working toward filling these gaps to improve patient care.”
Cass first joined GI Cancer Trials as a medical oncology registrar, drawn by her interest in GI oncology. Over the years, she has been a regular attendee at the ASM, both in person and online. The value of these meetings has become even more apparent over the last five years while completing her PhD and starting out as a new consultant.
“I recognise the GI Cancer Trials community as a fantastic source of inspiration, motivation, encouragement and support,” she says.
Cass’ most significant contribution to date has been her heavy involvement in the development and implementation of the GeneScreen trial. This program runs nationally and involves more than 25 trial sites, with over 2,400 patients now enrolled. The study focuses on upfront DPYD genotyping, making a meaningful difference to fluoropyrimidine tolerability and patient toxicity outcomes.
“It is fantastic to see real-time implementation of a clinical tool that is having important impact on Australian people with cancer,” Cass explains.
Her work on this research opened the opportunity to apply for an MBS item number to cover DPYD genotyping, which was successfully instated in November 2025. Additionally, Cass has been included in the upcoming update of the DPYD Clinical Pharmacogenomics Implementation Consortium (CPIC) DPYD/Fluoropyrimidine prescribing guidelines.
Like many early career researchers, Cass has faced the challenge of balancing research amongst clinical work and family life with young kids.
“There are never enough hours in the day to feel a total sense of accomplishment in all facets of life,” she reflects. “I think the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that even short intervals of work and dedication to your research add up to a large amount of effort long term.”
She has found that dividing workload into smaller achievable goals gives an ongoing sense of accomplishment and encourages motivation, making it feel more acceptable to fit research in around competing priorities while still maintaining a sense of progress.
Reflecting on the recognition, Cass acknowledges the support she’s received throughout her journey.
“I’m so grateful for the support that I have received over the course of my research career, and I am very much aware that success is a team effort,” she says.
“I am so grateful to my research mentors and supervisors – Steve Ackland, Rodney Scott, Christine Paul – and other key figures throughout my research career. I knew very little about the research space I was entering when I started and I was met with kindness and patience while I built my confidence.”
Cass’ advice for early career researchers wanting to make an impact?
“If you think you are interested in research, get involved! Even if the amount of time and energy you can offer is small amongst other commitments. You don’t need to know very much to start with, enthusiasm will carry you a long way until your knowledge catches up.”
“It is very enjoyable and inspiring to collaborate with other researchers and clinicians around topics that you are passionate about, and it is a great way to stretch your brain in a direction other than face-to-face clinical practice. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to help improve your knowledge.”
Learn more about the Early Career Researcher Award for Excellence in GI Cancer Research