Pictured L to R: Dr David Coker, Dr Marie Brinch-Møller Weitemeyer & A/Prof Robyn Saw
Marie Brinch-Møller Weitemeyer has recently completed a four-week surgical observership at Melanoma Institute Australia. She is a medical doctor who has completed a year in a “pre-registrar” role at a plastic surgery department with a focus on surgical management of melanoma. Marie is currently halfway through a full-time PhD, and this observership is part of her PhD program.
Marie has been involved with melanoma research for several years and is an active member of the Danish Multidisciplinary Melanoma Group, which develops the national guidelines in Denmark. She is also part of the steering and work groups for the Danish Melanoma Database. Additionally, Marie collaborates on melanoma research with MIA, working with Professor Varey and Professor Thompson AO.
Learn more about Marie and her personal journey in the melanoma field:
Can you summarise your career and education history?
I am a medical doctor from Denmark, currently pursuing a full-time PhD at the Department of Plastic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital – Herlev. My research focuses on the role of sentinel lymph node biopsy in melanoma management and the real-world impact of adjuvant therapy for Stage III melanoma patients.
Why did you decide to do an observership at Melanoma Institute Australia?
As part of my PhD, I needed an ‘environment change’ aligned with my research. The MIA observership offers a unique opportunity to gain a 360-degree insight into melanoma care at one of the most world-renowned institutes in the field, making it the ultimate choice.
How / why did you get into the melanoma field?
During medical school, I was drawn to the complexities of melanoma, both as a disease and a research area. My master’s project focused on melanoma, and later clinical experience in the field, along with involvement in the Danish Multidisciplinary Melanoma Group and the Danish Melanoma Database workgroup, further deepened my engagement. This ultimately led me to pursue a PhD in the field.
What are your career goals?
My goal is to continue contributing to melanoma research and advancements in melanoma management, with the exact career path yet to be determined.
What has the highlight of your experience here at Melanoma Institute Australia been?
The highlight has been observing the dedicated multidisciplinary approach to melanoma care at MIA. From translational research to post-treatment follow-ups, I’ve gained insight into every facet of melanoma management.
Describe yourself in one word:
Open-minded
What is your favourite thing about Australia?
The friendly people and strong sense of community, the stunning landscapes, and, of course, the amazing barista coffee!
Do you have any other comments?
I am incredibly grateful to the team at MIA for this incredible experience.
