Dr Cynthia Turnbull, a postdoctoral researcher at the John Curtin School of Medical Research (JCSMR) at The Australian National University (ANU), has been honoured with the Royal Society of New South Wales (RSNSW) Bicentennial Early Career Research and Service Citations Award. This prestigious accolade highlights her exceptional contributions to research and service within the academic and broader community.

Dr Turnbull, a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Man Group led by Professor Si Ming Man, focuses her research on genetic mutations that drive diseases such as autoimmunity and cancer.

In a recent groundbreaking study, Dr Turnbull demonstrated that a protein in the immune system, DECTIN-1—primarily responsible for defending the body against fungal infections—also controls the severity of autoimmune diseases like irritable bowel disease (IBS), type 1 diabetes, eczema, and other chronic disorders.

Her expertise in immunology and autoimmune diseases drives her ambition to uncover more immune system regulators like DECTIN-1. “By deepening our understanding of these key regulators, we hope to develop innovative treatments for a wide range of diseases,” she said.

Reflecting on the award, Dr Turnbull expressed gratitude: “I am very honoured to receive this award and incredibly thankful for the support of my nominators and colleagues. I also appreciate the Royal Society of New South Wales for their dedication to fostering early career researchers.”

Dr Turnbull was nominated for the award by her mentors, Professor Si Ming Man and Professor Carola G Vinuesa.

She completed her undergraduate studies with First Class Honours in a Bachelor of Science at ANU, majoring in Biology and minoring in Biochemistry. Dr Turnbull earned her PhD from JCSMR in 2023, further cementing her commitment to advancing immunological research.

This award reflects Dr Turnbull's remarkable achievements and ongoing contributions to the field, as well as her dedication to helping humanity through scientific discovery.

Link to the announcement of the Royal Society of New South Wales (RSNSW) Bicentennial Early Career Research and Service Citations Award is available here.

Top and cover images: Dr Cynthia Turnbull. Photos: Tracey Nearmy/ANU