This year, the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre at Epworth marks its 5th anniversary. Aside from our esteemed Director, Professor Andrew Metz, Alishiya Murali has been with the team the longest. Marking her 5th anniversary with the Centre this month, she has witnessed firsthand all the incredible successes of the Centre and has been instrumental in its growth.

We asked Alishiya about her role in the Centre and to reflect on the past 5 years.

What prompted you to join the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre at Epworth?

I've wanted to be involved in cancer research since I was in school. When I saw the job description for the Centre years ago, I hadn't seen anything like it before - a Centre with such a lasered-in focus on Pancreatic cancer. The opportunity to lay the foundations and shape the future of the Centre was a once in a lifetime experience, and I feel so privileged to still be in the team 5 years later.

Can you describe your typical day? What does your current role entail?

My role as a Clinical Research Coordinator is extremely dynamic - no two days are the same! I work on starting up and running clinical trials for advanced pancreatic cancer. A big part of my job is to guide patients through the trial treatment journey from day 1 right till the end of the trial. I work together with doctors, nurses, dietitians and all the healthcare teams to ensure that patients are holistically looked after.

What do you enjoy most about your work in the Centre?

It's very rewarding to have the chance to meet people from all walks of life and support them at a very challenging time. I attend almost every appointment with their doctor while they are on the trial, and I've often received positive feedback that it helps to have a familiar face with them at a time when there is so much uncertainty.

You’ve been with the Centre for 5 years. What has kept you motivated?

What keeps me going is the success stories of people who I've cared for on clinical trials - some of whom have doubled their prognosis while on a clinical trial, others who had a lot of pain when they were diagnosed and, after a few months on a trial, had so little pain that they could stop all their pain medications. I've seen what a difference trials can make to patients, and this motivates me to offer trials to as many people as I can.

Tell us a little bit about yourself outside of work – what do you like to do?

I like to unwind by playing the piano or reading. I'm a big fan of sports, particularly the Formula One and cricket so there's a good chance you'll find me around Albert Park or the MCG! I'm also a foodie and enjoy trying new cuisines.

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