Professor, Medical Genetics and The Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia
Distinguished Scientist, BC Cancer.
“Dr Marco Marra’s contributions to cancer genomics research at the national and international levels are unparalleled,” says Dr Nada Jabado, a childhood cancer researcher at McGill University who supported Dr Marra’s nomination for the 2025 Lifetime Contribution Prize. “His innovative research, leadership, and advocacy have significantly advanced the field of genomics and will have a lasting impact on the cancer research landscape.”
Dr Marra was selected for the Lifetime Contribution Prize thanks to his far-reaching contributions to cancer research in Canada. The prize is given to a researcher whose accomplishments extend beyond traditional research outputs – including building networks, creating resources and training new cancer researchers.
A long-time contributor to the fields of genomics and cancer, Dr Marra was one of the first researchers to show that genetic sequencing could identify new treatment options for people whose cancers had returned. He now co-leads BC’s Personalized Oncogenomics Program, which has helped over 2,000 patients find new treatments. The knowledge gained through that program is also paving the way for personalized therapies matched to each person’s specific cancer and genetic profile.
“Demonstrating remarkable foresight, Dr Marra’s team was the first to show how whole genome and transcriptome sequencing could be used to identify treatment options for a patient with relapsed disease,” Dr Jabado says. “This groundbreaking work has transformed cancer medicine in Canada.” But Dr Marra’s accomplishments go beyond his research. He has mentored trainees who now hold high-profile cancer research positions of their own, built partnerships and collaborations across Canada and the globe and advocated for genomics in health policy and care.
“Dr Marra is a visionary scientist whose pioneering contributions to health sciences have profoundly impacted both Canadian and global society,” says Dr Martin Hirst, a cancer researcher at the University of British Columbia who nominated him for the award. “His contributions have not only enhanced our understanding of cancer biology but also directly influenced clinical practices, leading to better outcomes for cancer patients every day.”
How has the work you've done so far changed the experiences of people affected by cancer?
I have been privileged to lead or co-lead numerous cancer projects, revealing new mutations, biomarkers and therapeutic targets to bring benefits to cancer patients and their families. I have been very fortunate to contribute to these and other initiatives in my cancer research journey, which has been graciously enabled by the support of superb leaders, colleagues and – most importantly – patients and their families.
What's the most surprising or unexpected finding you've encountered in your career?
On reflection, I find the increases in scale of genomics technologies to be among the most surprising developments during my career. When I started, production of the first draft sequence of the human genome required the efforts of thousands of individuals from many labs around the world across a time span of years. Now, my students routinely analyze data sets composed of tens, hundreds, even thousands of genome sequences. We can sequence cancer patient genomes on one machine in a single laboratory and return results to their oncology teams in clinically useful timeframes. The technology is now millions of times more cost-efficient and the benefits that this efficiency brings to health and disease research are many.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself at the start of your career?
Strap in and hang on – you are in for a wild ride!
This article has been adapted from its original version. Read the Canadian Cancer Society story here.
