Conversations in Lung Cancer Research

In this episode of TOGA's Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, host A/Prof Rachel Roberts-Thomson, a Medical Oncologist at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Cancer Care Adelaide, leads a panel discussion focusing on the landscape of BRAF-mutated non-small cell lung cancer. Joined by Prof Ahn Myung-ju, a Medical Oncologist at Hanyang University Medical Centre in South Korea as well as Co-chair for the upcoming World Lung Cancer Conference, and A/Prof Adnan Nagrial, a Medical Oncologist at Westmead Hospital in Sydney. The panel discusses the clinical characteristics and incidence of this molecular subset, the critical need for upfront comprehensive gen...

In this episode of TOGA's Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, host A/Prof Malinda Itchins, a medical oncologist and clinician researcher at Royal North Shore Hospital and Chris O'Brien Lifehouse , leads a practical overview of managing thymic cancers in Australia and New Zealand. She is joined by an expert panel featuring Prof Steven Kao, a thoracic medical oncologist at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Dr. Felicity Meikle, a cardiothoracic surgeon at the Waikato District Health Board in Hamilton, and Dr. Dasantha Jayamanne, a radiation oncologist at Royal North Shore Hospital and Genesis Care in Sydney. Despite being a "forgotten area" in...

In this episode of TOGA's 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research,' A/Prof Mel Moore interviews A/Prof Surein Arulananda, the interim Director of Medical Oncology and Thoracic Oncology Trials Lead at Monash Health and Convenor at the 2026 TOGA ASM. They discuss his academic background, his unexpected journey into oncology, a fellowship in Boston and MBA in London and his vision for the future of lung cancer treatment.

[0:00] Introduction

[2:05] Career Foundations

[3:19] Choosing Oncology 

[6:39] Translational PhD 

[12:00] Finding the Balance 

[13:36] The Boston Fellowship

[18:00] The MBA Journey in Lon...

In this episode of 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research,' host A/Prof Surein Arulananda (Medical Oncologist, Monash Health) is joined by members of the Local Organising Committee to provide an exclusive preview of the 2026 TOGA Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM). The panel discusses the most anticipated sessions, emerging themes in thoracic oncology, and the evolving landscape of lung cancer care in Australia and New Zealand.

(00:00) Welcome and Acknowledgement

(00:40) Meet the Panel

(01:21) Nursing Priorities

(02:09) Precision Survivorship

(03:25) Respiratory Viewpoint

(05:22) Nodule Management

(06:46) Radiation Oncology Sessions

(09:22) Must...

In this episode of TOGA's Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, host A/Prof Tim Clay sits down with Australian oncology luminaries Prof Ben Solomon and A/Prof Malinda Itchins to discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK) positive lung cancer. Since its discovery in 2007, treatment for this subset of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has advanced through four generations of inhibitors, significantly improving survival outcomes for the 400–500 Australians diagnosed annually.

(00:00) Welcome and Acknowledgement

(00:43) Meet the Expert Guests

(01:40) ALK History and Breakthroughs

(03:48) Who Gets ALK Lung Cancer

(04:57) Wo...

In this episode of 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research,' A/Prof Mel Moore talks with Prof Michael Millward, Foundation Professor of Clinical Cancer Research at the University of Western Australia and the oncology Medical Director at Linear Clinical Research in Perth. They discuss Prof Millward's extensive background in clinical and research interests in lung cancer and melanoma, the evolution of clinical trials, and the future of medical oncology, touching on molecular diagnostics, liquid biopsies, and early phase drug development. Millward also shares personal anecdotes and practical advice for young oncologists seeking to integrate clinical research into their careers.<...

In this episode of Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, host A/Prof Mel Moore interviews Dr. Megan Sanders, the Chief Executive Officer of TOGA. They discuss Megan's journey from working in vaccine formulation to earning a PhD in immunology, working in clinical trials, and eventually leading TOGA. They explore the challenges and achievements of TOGA, the importance of multidisciplinary engagement in lung cancer treatment, and the organisation's strategic plan for strengthening research and membership engagement. The conversation touches on the potential of clinical quality registries to improve patient care and highlights the ongoing effort to address the gaps in...

In this episode of 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research,' hosted by Associate Professor Mal Itchens, a multidisciplinary panel delves into the ongoing advancements in lung cancer research in Australia and New Zealand. The panel includes Professor Nick Pavlakis from Royal North Shore Hospital and Associate Professor Lauren Troy from Royal Prince Alfred Sydney. Key topics discussed include the 2025 lung cancer screening program, anticipated pharmaceutical benefits scheme (PBS) drug listings for 2026, and the introduction of advanced diagnostic technologies. The conversation highlights the initial impacts of the lung cancer screening program, potential benefits of new ALK inhibitors, and the expanding...

In this episode of 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research,' host Dr. Rebecca Tay and fellow oncologists A/Prof Surein Arulananda and Dr. Dasantha Jayamanne (DJ) delve into the latest advances in small cell lung cancer treatment.

They explore new first-line treatments, including checkpoint inhibitors and emerging novel agents like lurbinectedin and tarlatamab, highlighting their mechanisms, survival benefits, and toxicity management. The panel also discusses the evolving role of radiotherapy and future directions involving precision medicine and biomarkers. This comprehensive discussion aims to inform clinicians and healthcare professionals about the promising advancements reshaping the small cell lung...

In this episode of 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research' hosted by Dr Alex Davis, features a discussion with Dr. Laird Cameron and Dr. Annie Wong on the current state of lung cancer care and research in New Zealand. The panel explores the challenges and disparities faced by thoracic cancer patients, particularly among the indigenous Māori population. The conversation highlights the differences between patient populations in New Zealand and Australia, the impact of rurality on cancer care, the importance of clinical trials and multinational collaborations, and the future prospects for lung cancer treatments and interventions.

(00:00) In...

In this episode of Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, hosted by Dr Michael Krasovitsky, a medical oncologist at St. Vincent's Hospital in Sydney, the focus is on lung cancer in older adults. The distinction and application of geriatric oncology are explored through comprehensive discussions with experts: A/Prof Christopher Steer, Prof Shalini Vinod, and Ms Nicole Webb. The conversation delves into the importance of geriatric assessments, the unique challenges faced by older patients undergoing cancer treatment, the impact of ageism, and the necessity of tailored, supportive care. Practical tools and approaches for assessing frailty, treatment decision making, and addressing...

In this episode of Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, host A/Prof Mel Moore interviews Prof Anna Nowak, a renowned medical oncologist, clinical trialist, and tumour immunology researcher. We learn of Anna's early aspirations influenced by her family and mentors, her educational and professional trajectory, and her transition to a leadership role as Deputy Vice Chancellor at the University of Western Australia. Anna shares insights on the challenges and rewards of juggling clinical practice with research, her contributions to mesothelioma studies, involvement in the DREAM and DREAMER trials, and her role in mentoring the next generation of oncologists.

n this episode of Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, A/Prof Tim Clay discusses the multidisciplinary management of CNS metastases in the context of thoracic cancers. Joined by Dr. Keryn Davidson, a consultant neurosurgeon, and A/Prof Fiona Hegi Johnson, a radiation oncologist, the discussion focuses on the nuances of treating patients with non-small cell lung cancer presenting with brain metastases. Key topics include the role of neurosurgery, decision-making for radiation therapy, evolving approaches for oncogene-driven cancer patients, management of radiation necrosis, and the complexities of treating small cell lung cancer and leptomeningeal disease.  

This episode is sp...

In this episode of 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research,' A/Prof Mel Moore sits down with A/Prof Fiona Hegi Johnson, a radiation oncologist at the Peter McCallum Cancer Center and senior research fellow at the University of Melbourne. Fiona shares her journey into radiation oncology, highlighting her career progression, the impact of serendipity, and the importance of mentors. They discuss technological advancements in the field, the role of multidisciplinary teams, changes in lung cancer treatments, and clinical challenges. Fiona offers insights into balancing clinical work with research and provides advice for early-career professionals in the field.

In this episode of TOGA's Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, A/Prof Mel Moore speaks with Prof Shankar Siva about his groundbreaking work in radiation oncology, particularly focusing on the PRIME Lung study. They discuss the journey from concept to large clinical trials, the challenges of grant applications, the importance of controversial ideas in research, and the role of industry funding. Shankar also shares insights into his interest in genitourinary cancers and the future of radiation therapy, emphasising the significance of mentorship and practical advice for junior radiation oncologists.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:33 Meet Professor Shankar...

This episode of 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research' features Dr. Anna McLean, Dr Mark Adams, and Dr Sagun Parakh, discussing research on the microbiome and its influence on lung cancer treatment outcomes. They delve into the differences between the gut and lung microbiomes, methods for studying these microorganisms, and the potential for the microbiome to serve as biomarkers for treatment response and immune-related adverse events. They also cover the importance of collaboration and larger data sets in advancing this promising area of research.

(00:00) Introduction

(01:47) Understanding the Microbiome

(03:40) Gut and Lung Microbiome Relationship

In this episode of Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, we welcome A/Prof Bryan Chan, a senior Medical Oncologist and this years TOGA ASM Convener. 

Bryan, affiliated with multiple institutions including Adam Crosby Cancer Center and Griffith University, discusses his comprehensive career journey from fellowship at the Princess Margaret Cancer Center in Toronto to his current roles in Australia. The discussion highlights the benefits of overseas fellowships, the development of clinical trials, and his leadership in thoracic oncology at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital. 

Bryan also touches upon the challenges and rewards of balancing private an...

In this episode of Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, A/Prof Mel Moore speaks with Prof Wendy Cooper, a leading pathologist in cancer research. They discuss Wendy's journey into pathology, the evolution of lung cancer diagnostics, the impact of AI and liquid biopsies, and the importance of international collaboration in research. Wendy shares insights on the challenges of equitable access to cancer diagnostics and the pressures faced by pathologists in multidisciplinary meetings. The conversation concludes with advice for junior clinicians on career development and involvement in professional organisations.

(00:00) Introduction and Acknowledgements

(00:36) Introducing Prof Wendy Cooper<...

In this episode of 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research,' Professor Tom John from the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne discusses the significant progress and excitement surrounding cancer vaccines, particularly their emerging role in lung cancer treatment.

He is joined by Professor Ken O'Byrne, a medical oncologist and clinical scientist at the Princess Alexandra Hospital and Queensland University of Technology, and Professor Georgina Long AO, the medical director of the Melanoma Institute of Australia and co-recipient of the 2024 Australian of the Year.

The experts delve into technological advances spurred by COVID-19 vaccine development, promising...

In this episode of Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, Dr. Malinda Itchins, Dr. Annie Wong, and A/Prof Stephen Kao discuss the concept of liquid biopsy, its advantages and limitations, and its clinical applications in lung cancer treatment. They explore how liquid biopsy can provide faster diagnosis and treatment options, especially for patients who cannot undergo traditional tissue biopsies. However, they also address the challenges of sensitivity and the need for further research to integrate liquid biopsy into routine clinical practice.

This episode is sponsored by: 

(00:00) Introdu...

In this episode of Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, A/Prof Mel Moore, along with thoracic oncologists Dr. Malinda Itchins and A/Prof Surein Arulananda, delve into the characteristics, detection, and treatment of EGFR exon 20 insertion mutant non-small cell lung cancer. The podcast discusses recent advances, the efficacy of various treatments including small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies, and the potential future of targeted therapies. Special focus is given to the Phase 3 Papillon study and the drug Amivantamab, highlighting the need for next generation sequencing in clinical settings. Key challenges and questions in the field are also...

In this episode of Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, A/Prof Mel Moore interviews Prof Michael Boyer, AM about his extensive career in medical oncology and his current role as CEO of Chris O'Brien Lifehouse. They discuss his early interest in oncology, the influential mentors in his career, and the evolution of lung cancer treatment and research. Michael shares his perspectives on leadership in medical and research roles, the importance of building relationships, and the balance between industry-sponsored and cooperative group research. They also touch upon professional challenges, emotional resilience in oncology, and Michael's vision for the future of...

In this introductory episode, Associate Professor Mel Moore, medical oncologist and education chair at TOGA, announces the evolution of TOGA podcasts to 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research.' 

The podcast will continue to deliver the latest breakthroughs in lung cancer research while expanding to include deeper dives and engaging discussions with experts in thoracic oncology. Listeners can look forward to unique insights from researchers, clinicians, and key thought leaders shaping the future of lung cancer care.

Support TOGA

Thank you for listening to Conversations in Lung Cancer Research. If you enjoyed this e...

We have witnessed incredible advances in therapy since ALK was discovered in 2007, starting from the pivotal PROFILE 1001 study of crizotinib in advanced ALK positive NSCLC to present day where we now have five approved targeted agents, with increasing potency, selectivity and CNS activity with each successive generation of drug. Despite these advances in therapy, the emergence of treatment resistance in the TKI still remains one of greatest challenges in the clinic. Our TOGA podcast panel discuss the clinical and genetic factors affecting treatment choice, sequencing and resistance patterns, including oligoprogression and local therapy considerations. Dr Rebecca Tay, Medical Oncologist at...

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Thank you for listening to Conversations in Lung Cancer Research. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

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Attend an Event: https://thoraciconcology.org.au/events/

Become a Member: Join the TOGA community at https://thoraciconcology.org.au/membership/

Donate: Support our research and treatment initiatives at https://thoraciconcology.org.au/support-us/donate/

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In this episode, we discuss the clinical and diagnostic markers when identifying a rare sub type of NSCLC, large-cell neuroendocrine carcinomas (LC-NEC), and provide insights into the management of these patients and future treatment developments. Associate Professor Rachel Wong, Deputy Director Oncology Eastern Health and Medical Oncologist at Epworth East in Melbourne is joined by Dr Patrick Hosking, Senior Histopathologist at Eastern Health Pathology; Dr Mal Itchins, Thoracic Medical Oncologist at Royal North Shore Hospital and Chris O'Brien LifeHouse in Sydney and Dr Sagun Parakh, Medical Oncologist at the Austin Hospital, Lung Cancer Lead. https://www.omico.com.au/our-programs...

Support TOGA

Thank you for listening to Conversations in Lung Cancer Research. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

---------------

Connect with TOGA

Attend an Event: https://thoraciconcology.org.au/events/

Become a Member: Join the TOGA community at https://thoraciconcology.org.au/membership/

Donate: Support our research and treatment initiatives at https://thoraciconcology.org.au/support-us/donate/

Follow Us

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thoracic-oncology-group-of-australasia/

X (Twitter): https://x.com...

In this TOGA podcast, we provide an overview of the treatment options for rare subtypes of oncogene driven NSCLC that are now readily identified in the MBS-reimbursed small gene panel including NTRK1, 2,3 and other rare mutations in NSCLC. The importance of testing all patients is discussed as well as what to do when resistance occurs. Associate Professor Steven Kao, Medical Oncologist from Chris O’Brien Lifehouse and Clinical Associate Professor Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health is joined by Professor Wendy Cooper, senior staff specialist in Tissue Pathology and Diagnostic Oncology at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, An...

In this TOGA podcast, we provide an overview of the recent neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and perioperative IO data, the options and considerations for treatment and the current reimbursement landscape. Dr Pei Ni Ding, Medical Oncologist from Westmead and Nepean Hospitals Sydney, is joined by Dr Samantha Bowyer, Medical Oncologist from Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Perth and Mr Naveed Alam, Thoracic Surgeon from St Vincents, Epworth and Monash in Melbourne. Many emerging treatments are discussed in this podcast, and clinicians are reminded that oncology access programs are listed in the medicines access portal https://www.medicinesap.com/ Support TOGA Thank you...

In this TOGA podcast, we provide an overview of the recent neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and perioperative IO data, the options and considerations for treatment and the current reimbursement landscape. Dr Pei Ni Ding, Medical Oncologist from Westmead and Nepean Hospitals Sydney, is joined by Dr Samantha Bowyer, Medical Oncologist from Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Perth and Mr Naveed Alam, Thoracic Surgeon from St Vincents, Epworth and Monash in Melbourne. Many emerging treatments are discussed in this podcast, and clinicians are reminded that oncology access programs are listed in the medicines access portal https://www.medicinesap.com/

Do we need to evolve the bar on evidence required for drug reimbursement? The gold standard endpoint for assessing the benefit of anti-cancer drugs has been overall survival (OS) however, more recently, there has been a trend toward using surrogate clinical trial endpoints such as progression free survival (PFS) and event-free survival (EFS). As treatments improve and patients are living longer, using OS as a primary endpoint can mean a longer time until a result is obtained. In this podcast, Dr Rebecca Tay, Medical Oncologist at Royal Hobart Hospital and ICON, discusses the critical role of improvement in quality of...

Lung Cancer Support Nurse - Lung Foundation Australia

Quit Centre | Homepage

Lung Cancer Screening Program: Early Detection Saves Lives (thoraciconcology.org.au)

Lung Cancer Optimal Care Pathway

Support TOGA

Thank you for listening to Conversations in Lung Cancer Research. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

---------------

Connect with TOGA

Attend an Event: https://thoraciconcology.org.au/events/

Become a Member: Join the TOGA community at https://thoraciconcology.org.au/membership/

Radiation therapy can be a very effective treatment for lung cancers, with 77% of patients indicating for radiation therapy in their disease trajectory. Yet, only 40% of patients with lung cancer in NSW receive radiation therapy.

In this podcast, Professor Shalini Vinod, Assoc Professor Mei-Ling Yap, and Dr Clare Bajraszewski  discuss why radiation therapy is underutilised in lung cancer, what this means for patients, and potential solutions to address this.

This episode's host are:

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming medicine. Lung Cancer healthcare professionals are interested in the use of AI in radiology, particularly in early diagnosis leading to better patient outcomes. In this podcast we will explore how AI can aid in early detection, accurate interpretation of imaging scans and reduce diagnostic errors. This episode is joined by Associate Professor Michael Franco, a dual trained in medical oncology and palliative care and also the digital health director at Monash in Melbourne. He is featured with Professor Catherine Jones Cardiothoracic Radiologist I-Med Radiology and Clinical Director of Radiology at Redland Hospital, Brisbane and an...

In this TOGA Podcast the speakers discuss Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs) – An Emerging Treatment Platform in Lung Cancer. The discussion explores the different molecules and mechanisms of drugs currently available, trial results and the subsequent place of ADCs in the Lung Cancer. Furthermore, our guests expand upon the management of patients receiving these drugs. A/Prof Melissa Moore, Medical Oncologist at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, is joined in this conversation by fellow medical oncologists A/Prof Tom John from Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne and A/Prof Adnan Nagrial from Westmead Hospital in Sydney. Support TOGA Thank you for...

This TOGA Podcast discusses Lung cancer Screening and Moving from Concept to Roll Out. The conversation explores the International Lung Cancer Screening Trial and overseas experience of recruitment, the challenges of reaching different population groups, some of whom stand to benefit most from the LCSP, and what it will mean for healthcare workload. The discussion explores the role of Federal and State jurisdictions in the management of the program. A/Prof Emily Stone, Head of Thoracic Medicine in the Dept of Thoracic Medicine and Lung Transplantation at St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, is joined by A/Prof Gavin Wright Director of...

This TOGA Podcast discusses strategies for enhancing patients’ recovery from lung cancer resection in light of new and emerging data for new peri-operative therapies that improve survival. The conversation explores the guidelines available, the changing landscape for the patient with neoadjuvant and adjuvant management options, and the multidisciplinary considerations to optimise the care of patients. Dr Jazmin Eckhaus, a thoracic surgeon from The Austin, Melbourne, is joined by A/Prof Emily Stone, Head of Thoracic Medicine in the Dept of Thoracic Medicine and Lung Transplantation at St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, A/Prof Melissa Moore, a medical oncologist from St Vinc...

This TOGA Podcast discusses the data surrounding air pollution and lung cancer. The discussion delves into Nature and nurture and lung cancer risk and implications for future screening. Associate Professor Tom John, Medical Oncologist from Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, is joined by Professor Charles Swanton, The Group Leader at the Cancer Therapeutics Laboratory at the London Research Institute and Medical Oncologist from University College in London, Associate Professor Venessa Chin, a Medical Oncologist from St Vincent’s Private Hospital, Kinghorn Cancer Centre and Garvan Institute and Dr Tracy Leong, Respiratory Physician from Austin Health, Melbourne and President of the Victorian Br...

In this TOGA Podcast, we discuss what defines operability in locally advanced stage III NSCLC. A/Professor Tim Clay, Medical Oncologist from St John of God Subiaco and Rockingham General is joined by Professor Lucy Morgan, Board Chair of the Lung Foundation of Australia and Respiratory Physician from Concord & Nepean Hospitals; A/Professor Phillip Antippa, Cardiothoracic surgeon and the Head of Thoracic Surgical Services at the Royal Melbourne Hospital and the VCCC and also Dr Qurrat van den Blink, Radiation Oncologist from GenesisCare based in Perth (Joondalup) and Albany. Support TOGA Thank you for listening to Conversations in Lung Cancer...

In this TOGA Podcast, Australian medical oncologist, Associate Professor Chee Lee, St George Hospital, Kogarah, is joined by medical oncologist Dr Tristan Barnes, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, and Dr Alex Davis, PhD candidate and medical oncologist at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, Sydney. They discuss treatment of patients with non-small cell lung cancer with KRAS mutations, the role of co-mutations, and biomarkers that are negative predictors of response. Furthermore, the speakers give an update on current clinical research and approval status of KRAS inhibitors as well as the clinical need for the availability of KRAS inhibitors in Australia. Support TOGA Th...