Torsten Nielsen was inspired by Terry Fox to become a cancer researcher, training as a clinician-scientist in McGill’s MD/PhD program (and now directing that program at UBC). He works to translate new discoveries from emerging genomic technologies into practical diagnostics and treatments for cancer. His work has led to several new tests that allow accurate and inexpensive diagnosis of sarcomas, where he has also contributed to clinical trials leading to at least two new targeted sarcoma therapies. In breast cancer, Prof. Nielsen has developed tests currently in use internationally that identify women who can safely avoid chemotherapy or radiotherapy.