Medical research captured as art in annual image prize

The competition invites Institute researchers, staff and students to showcase images generated through their work that not only advance scientific understanding but also reveal the striking beauty found within the medical research world.

The top prize for 2026 was awarded to Landscape of Renewal, submitted by Dr Mojdeh Abbasi from the Institute’s Centre for Cancer Innovations. Captured using scanning electron microscopy, the image shows limbal stem cells growing on a specially coated contact lens. These stem cells maintain and regenerate the cornea. Resembling a miniature landscape, the image highlights an emerging approach to repairing the ocular surface and restoring vision.

Landscape of Renewal by Dr Mojdeh Abbasi

Second place went to Into the Galaxy, created by Serena Li from the Institute’s Centre for Cardiovascular Research. The image reflects the search to uncover the genetic causes of inherited heart disease by studying laboratory-grown heart cells. Examining individual cells provides researchers with vital clues to better understand these conditions and improve future diagnosis and treatment.

Into the Galaxy by Serena Li

Third place was awarded to Between Attachment and Escape, submitted by Dr Thuy Luong from the Institute’s Centre for Cancer Innovations. The image captures melanoma cells at the critical point where they prepare to detach and migrate through the body. The research investigates how cancer cells survive stress, resist treatment and metastasise, with the aim of identifying new ways to prevent melanoma progression.

Between Attachment and Escape by Dr Thuy Luong

Professor Marc Pellegrini, Executive Director of the Centenary Institute, said the competition offers a unique perspective on the research taking place across the Institute.

“These images demonstrate that scientific discovery is not only intellectually fascinating but can also be visually extraordinary,” Professor Pellegrini said.

“They provide a window into biological processes that are normally invisible to the human eye while highlighting the innovative research our scientists are undertaking to improve the diagnosis and treatment of disease.”

Established in 2009, the ‘When Art Meets Science Image Prize’ celebrates the creativity of Centenary’s research community, with winners selected each year by an independent panel of external judges.

Members of the public are now invited to vote online for their favourite image in the Image Prize’s ‘People’s Choice Award’, which is open now at https://www.centenary.org.au/peopleschoice2026.