Tim Bauer

Richard Scolyer is globally recognised for his pioneering work on melanoma treatment

Pioneering Australian doctor Richard Scolyer has died, three years after being diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour.

Scolyer, 59, made global headlines for his decision to undergo a risky world-first experimental treatment for his glioblastoma at the hands of his friend Professor Georgina Long - based on the pair's own scientific breakthroughs in skin cancer.

Their work on advanced melanoma - once a death sentence - has saved countless lives, and their encouraging findings in treating Scolyer's brain tumour have triggered an early stage clinical trial in the US.

"I wanted to keep contributing, even in my darkest hour," Scolyer said in an open letter announcing his death.

"I pen this letter as a final goodbye to all those I have had the immense privilege of loving, sharing life's adventures with, working alongside and meeting during what can only be described as a life filled with happiness, optimism,…