Professor David Whiteman is a medical epidemiologist at the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute. He is internationally recognised for his research into the causes, prevention and control of cancer, particularly those of the skin and gastrointestinal tracts. Professor Whiteman’s research findings have been translated into policy and practice, and he holds leadership positions in national and international research committees and policy forums. His research excellence has been recognised previously through awards such as the Fulbright Senior Scholarship (2006), Young Tall Poppy Award (2001) and the Nuffield Fellowship to the University of Oxford (1997).