Oliver Cronin

Each year, more young Australians are diagnosed with colorectal cancer—and I am determined to change how we treat it. Most cases are found early, and thanks to advances in research and endoscopic innovation, many can now be cured without major surgery. Endoscopic resection is organ-sparing, minimally invasive, and far less costly, with lower complication and mortality rates. Its impact reaches beyond patients to their families, the health system, and the wider community.

After specialty training in Gastroenterology, I undertook a two-year Advanced Endoscopy Fellowship at Westmead Hospital under Professor Michael Bourke, whose evidence-driven approach inspired my PhD at the University of Sydney. This was a turning point in my understanding of how advanced endoscopy transforms lives, often avoiding the need for invasive surgery.

I then broadened my skills at NYU Langone with Professor Greg Haber, supported by a Fulbright Scholarship. Since returning, I have worked at the Northern Hospital and Alfred Hospital, continuing to refine my practice under Dr Joshua Butt’s mentorship.

A Churchill Fellowship will allow me to train with Professor Jeremie Jacques and his team at CHU Limoges, France, whose high-volume, cost-effective Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) program treats over 400 patients annually.

My vision is that endoscopic resection is considered as first-line treatment for all suitable gastrointestinal lesions—reducing morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs while delivering world-class outcomes for Australians.