B.C. researcher wins Killam Prize for cancer genomics

University of British Columbia (UBC) professor Marco Marra has won the 2025 Killam Prize in health sciences. This award is worth $100,000 and recognizes his extraordinary contributions to cancer research and genome analysis. Marra's journey in genetics began with studying roundworms for his PhD. Over the years, he shifted his focus to human genetics and became part of the Human Genome Project. His work now helps develop personalized cancer treatments by analyzing the genomes of cancer patients. He noted that winning the Killam Prize comes shortly after his appointment to the Order of Canada in December. Marra expressed his gratitude but emphasized that his colleagues also deserve recognition for their hard work. In 1999, he returned to Canada at the request of Nobel laureate Michael Smith. Together, they established the Genome Sciences Centre at BC Cancer to study cancer genomics. This led to the opening of the Personalized Onco-Genomics program in 2012. The program uses genetic information from tumor samples to recommend targeted treatments for patients with advanced cancer. Marra's vision includes sharing genomic data across Canada to enhance treatment options. He hopes this collaboration will allow oncologists to learn from each other's successes in treating similar cancer profiles. Alongside Marra, four other researchers received the Killam Prize in their fields. They were recognized for their significant achievements in engineering, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. The Killam Trusts, which fund this prize, aim to boost Canada's research and innovation efforts.