Every day in the Flinders Centre for Innovation in Cancer, Nadine Smith is working at the cutting edge of discovery. As an RNA biologist and PhD candidate at Flinders University, her research focuses on unlocking the secrets of cancer biology to improve treatments and outcomes for patients. 

But outside the lab, Nadine is lacing up her running shoes and taking her passion for science into the community. This year, she’s taking part in the City-Bay Fun Run to raise funds for Flinders Foundation, giving back to the very cause she dedicates her career to. 

For Nadine, it’s about more than just crossing the finish line. It’s about honouring those touched by cancer, fuelling life-changing research, and supporting the patients and families at the heart of it all. 

The scientist in the sneakers 

Nadine’s research explores how a molecule called NEAT1 influences the way cancer cells grow and survive. NEAT1 comes in two forms that behave very differently: one helps cancer cells produce energy more efficiently, while the other helps cells respond to stress and may even slow progression. 

Until recently, researchers couldn’t measure these two forms separately; but Nadine and the Cancer Cell Metabolism Lab developed a new method to do just that. Their findings could pave the way for more targeted treatments, helping scientists better understand and ultimately disrupt the processes that allow cancer to thrive. 

“What excites me most about cancer research and RNA biology is the opportunity to unravel the hidden mechanics of life,” Nadine says. 

“I’ve always been fascinated by how something so microscopic, like a single cell, can become so destructive. Our work explores how such a small and intricate system can transform into something deadly, and I’m driven to understand the molecular switches that trigger that change.” 

Turning research into action 

For Nadine, science isn’t confined to the lab. Becoming a Flinders Foundation community fundraiser is a way to carry her mission beyond the microscope and into the community. 

“As a cancer researcher, I’ve seen firsthand how vital community support is; not just for funding research, but for empowering survivors and families. Flinders Foundation doesn’t just invest in science; they invest in patients.”  

“Their grants help researchers like me push boundaries in cancer biology, and their outreach and survivorship programs make sure those discoveries reach the community. Fundraising is my way of giving back and helping fuel the kind of work that changes lives.” 

Her training plan for City-Bay is guided by a dedicated team, including Chris Rawling, founding director of SEPSA and Flinders University lecturer, and Anu Francis, Australian Paralympic Triathlete and Exercise Scientist. With their support, and plenty of encouragement from her family, Nadine is building both endurance and strength while balancing the challenges of chronic illness. 

“Mentally, I treat each run as a tribute, to honour loved ones who have faced cancer,” she says. “When it gets hard, I just have to think how hard they’ve had to fight.” 

Why Flinders Foundation? 

Nadine chose to fundraise for Flinders Foundation because of its unique role as the link between researchers, healthcare professionals, and the community. 

“Flinders Foundation's grants help researchers like me push boundaries in cancer biology, and their outreach and survivorship programs ensure discoveries reach the community. Fundraising is my way of giving back and helping fuel the kind of work that changes lives.” 

Running toward hope 

For Nadine, combining research with running is deeply personal. Friends, family, and colleagues have faced cancer, and their strength inspires her every day. 

“Running gives me a way to honour those affected by cancer and to advocate for healthier futures,” she says. “Every step I take is a step toward better care, better treatments, and more hope.”