Vale Richard Scolyer

Pathologist, researcher and author Professor Richard Scolyer died on Sunday, 7 June 2026.

Allen & Unwin writes:

The hugely admired pathologist and researcher Professor Richard Scolyer, AO died on Sunday, 7 June 2026. Richard was an internationally renowned melanoma pathologist and co-medical director of the Melanoma Institute of Australia. In 2021 he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia, and 3 years later named co-Australian of the Year. He was also a keen athlete who represented Australia as an age-group triathlete. In 2025 the Richard Scolyer Chair in Brain Cancer Research was established.

In 2023 he was diagnosed with brain cancer. Brainstorm, published in 2024 by Allen & Unwin, detailed his choice to undertake world-first experimental treatment based on melanoma science. It is a testament to Richard’s commitment to improved medical outcomes and sharing knowledge that he chose to document this uncertain journey in a book and social media during that challenging time of his life. He greatly enjoyed producing his memoir with co-writer Garry Maddox, and support from his wife, Katie Nicolls, and children, Emily, Matthew and Lucy. He was thrilled when Brainstorm won Social Impact Book of the Year at the 2025 Australian Book Industry Awards.

Professor Scolyer wrote an open letter to all Australians, which he asked to be published on his passing. It said, in part: “I’ve spent the last 3 years being open and honest about my journey with glioblastoma (brain cancer), in part to be transparent about what cancer patients and their families go through, and in part to provide hope and inspiration that we can and should continue to push boundaries to propel the cancer field forward.”

Reflecting on how people might remember him, Richard said he didn’t need to be seen as courageous or inspirational but that when faced with a devastating diagnosis, he tried something bold and innovative. Richard’s heart was as big as his brain. He will be greatly missed by everyone at Allen & Unwin. Rest in peace Richard.

Donations in Richard’s memory can be made to the following organisations: The Richard Scolyer Chair in Brain Cancer Research at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse or the Brain Cancer Group to support brain cancer patients.

Category: Obituaries