The founder of not-for-profit genomics organisation Omico, Professor David Thomas, has been awarded NSW’s highest accolade for cancer research at the NSW Premier’s Awards for Outstanding Cancer Research.
Professor Thomas is also the director of the Centre of Molecular Oncology at UNSW.
This award recognises his contributions to advancing cancer research and patient outcomes through a career focussed on sarcoma research, genomics and the pioneering integration of precision oncology as routine care across New South Wales and Australia.
Nominated by his peers, Professor Thomas has become a consequential figure in oncology, globally renowned for his groundbreaking work and leadership in genomic cancer medicine.
As the chief science and strategy officer at Omico, which he founded in 2018, Professor Thomas has spearheaded nationwide initiatives to translate cutting-edge genomic technologies into tangible therapeutic advancements for Australians with challenging cancers, improving outcomes for many patients.
“Receiving this award is a great honour and also recognises the importance of precision oncology as an indispensable tool in our fight against cancer,” he said.
“Genomics and precision oncology is no longer a distant vision; it’s a mature, evidence-based approach here and now, that is evolving the way we can assess and treat cancers. Our challenge is to ensure every Australian patient, wherever they are, can benefit from this tailored approach.
“New South Wales provides an outstanding environment for this endeavour, with its world-class research infrastructure, commitment to innovation, and vibrant clinical community. I congratulate the State Government for recognising commitment to the life science sector not only saves lives; it also creates jobs, forms healthcare networks and supports economic growth,” added Professor Thomas.
Omico’s PrOSPeCT (Precision Oncology Screening Platform Enabling Clinical Trials) initiative, the largest of its kind in Australia, is providing 23,000 Australians with advanced cancers access to free genomic profiling and possible matching to precision medicines. Data from Omico’s MoST (Molecular Screening and Therapeutics) program demonstrate the potential impact. Among the first 3,383 patients, those receiving matched therapies based on identified biomarkers experienced double the median survival time compared to those on unmatched treatments.
Professor Thomas added, “We are on the cusp of a new era in cancer care. It’s imperative to integrate this approach as mainstream care for all Australians.”