It is with a heavy heart that we share the deeply sad news that our cherished colleague Prof Richard Scolyer AO passed away yesterday 7th June 2026.
Richard was a renowned pathologist and a world authority on skin cancer and melanoma diagnoses. His broad knowledge of and passion for pathology, along with his generous mentorship and teaching, have inspired many and transformed melanoma and skin cancer research and diagnosis across the globe.
Richard was an integral and esteemed part of Melanoma Institute Australia (MIA) and the melanoma community for over two decades. His commitment to and advocacy for his profession, coupled with his enthusiasm for life and his genuine humanity, resonated broadly, and has left a lasting positive impact.
“I am deeply saddened to lose such a cherished colleague. Richard was a truly extraordinary pathologist - the 'pathologists' pathologist' - who also made generous time for clinicians navigating complex diagnostic cases, understanding that an accurate tissue diagnosis was critical to patient care. His knowledge was vast, his skill exceptional, with an unparalleled eye for accurate tissue diagnoses, and the precision to apply decades of experience where it mattered most.”
“He shared his expertise widely: through consultation on external specimens, through diagnostic and classification frameworks now used worldwide, and as a devoted teacher and mentor. Richard has left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working alongside him.” - Professor Georgina Long
MIA is proud to have instituted the Richard Scolyer Pathology Fellowship, honouring Richard's legacy, and his commitment to shaping the next generation of melanoma pathologists.
Our thoughts are with Richard's family during this difficult time, especially his wife Katie and children Emily, Matthew, and Lucy.
As we mourn the passing of Richard, we also reflect on a remarkable life that touched so many. Please consider sharing a tribute message for Richard on our MIA website>
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Richard's legacy will live on, continuing to inspire us all, as we continue working toward our vision of zero deaths from melanoma.