Dr Renu Eapen: Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Women in Medicine
08 March 2025
This International Women’s Day, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre is proud to celebrate the incredible achievements and contributions of women in science and medicine across Melbourne’s world-leading Parkville biomedical precinct.
Dr Renu Eapen, a Consultant Urologist in Peter Mac’s Genitourinary Oncology service, features in today’s Herald Sun VWeekend magazine as part of International Women’s Day coverage where she shares insights on science, medicine, and the importance of mentorship and diversity.
She is a trailblazer in the traditionally male-dominated fields of urology and robotic surgery and has a special interest in prostate, kidney, and bladder cancers. As a surgeon scientist, she also has the opportunity to bridge clinical care and research.
Working closely with patients in the clinic and operating theatre, she has seen firsthand where knowledge gaps exist and has used research to address these issues, ultimately improving patient care.
“My message to women is this: You are only limited by your curiosity, creativity and imagination,” says Dr Eapen.
“Mentorship is important, surrounding yourself with people smarter than you is important. If you keep an open mind, persevere and are adaptable to change, many doors of opportunity will open for you.”
She also encourages young women to be bold in their aspirations.
“When you see a field or position that seems ‘off limits’ to you, don’t be afraid to knock or push on the door. It may open to you, and unless you take the chance, you will never know!” she says.
Victoria is recognised as a global leader in medical research, and the Parkville precinct, where Peter Mac is located, plays a significant role in that reputation.
“The Parkville precinct brings together people of all disciplines in a truly multidisciplinary approach. Research is true teamwork. Progress is only made with the efforts of many working towards a common goal,” Dr Eapen explains.
“The opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of men and women across all fields of science, medicine and technology has made this precinct very special for me.”
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, #forALLwomenandgirls, resonates deeply with Dr Eapen. She acknowledges that for many young women, successful female leaders can seem intimidating or unreachable, and she believes in breaking down these barriers.
“It is important to keep the drawbridge down, remain compassionate, relatable, inclusive, friendly and approachable,” she says. “Opportunities to share honest personal experiences, challenges and aspirations go a long way towards inspiring and motivating young women.”
She emphasises that true progress comes when women empower each other. “As leaders in our fields, if we can create a diverse environment, empower other women and amplify their voices, this can truly have a ripple effect.”
As she continues her career, Dr Eapen is committed to giving back and fostering an inclusive culture in medicine. Through her co-hosting role on GU Cast, a podcast focused on genitourinary oncology, and her leadership roles, she aims to encourage innovation and diversity within urology and the broader medical field.
“Hopefully, I can continue to pay it forward. Through GU Cast and progressive leadership roles, I hope to continue creating a culture of innovation, inclusiveness and diversity within my specialty of urology and broadly within science and medicine.”