For nearly two decades, Professor David Virshup has been an integral part of Duke-NUS. As the founding director of the School’s Cancer and Stem Cell Biology Programme (CSCB), he shaped the research landscape within and beyond the programme, and became a sought-after mentor to future scientists while continuing to drive transformative discoveries in his own lab. On 7 March, the Duke-NUS community and guests from around the world, gathered at a special symposium to celebrate Prof Virshup’s contributions as he prepares for his next chapter in Durham.
The event was a fitting tribute to a scientist, mentor, and leader whose influence transcends research—marked by moments of laughter, heartfelt reflections and at times even a few tears.
While the day was as much about showcasing cutting-edge research—from oncogene mutations to lipid transfer proteins to therapeutic targets for multiple sclerosis—it was also an opportunity to honour Prof Virshup’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and mentorship.
One of the programme’s faculty member Associate Professor Nicholas Tolwinski emceed the event, where Prof Virshup’s former students, junior faculty and peers painted a vivid picture of Prof Virshup who is known not just for his rigourous approach to scientific inquiry but as a mentor whose spirit of adventure and dedication leaves an indelible mark on people whom he meets.
“He is one who brought CSCB to the world…and who has brought world experts to CSCB as well,” said Professor Ong Sin Tiong, who thanked Prof Virshup for generously dispensing his wisdom and academic advice, with a “gentle nudge to always do the right thing”.
Prof Ong’s talk—which was scientific and yet witty—was a fitting tribute to the cancer biologist. From the audience’s amused reactions, it was clear that Prof Ong’s observations of Prof Virshup struck a chord.
Professor Patrick Tan, Senior Vice-Dean for Research, acknowledged Prof Virshup’s influence on both research and people.
“David is somebody who thinks a lot about the programme and his faculty,” said Prof Tan, as he reflected on Prof Virshup’s unwavering dedication to elevating the programme and nurturing his team. “He’s been instrumental in shaping CSCB and setting the stage for what the School will be like in the next 20 years.”
Beyond his scientific contributions, Prof Virshup’s mentorship has also left a profound impact on his peers from other research programmes. Professor Wang Yibin, Director of the Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Programme, highlighted the positive impact Prof Virshup has had on his professional and personal growth. “He always has the best intent with his guidance,” he shared.
Prof David Vishup (left) receives a token of appreciation from Prof Ong Sin Tiong (centre), and Assoc Prof Nicholas Tolwinski (right)
“David was one of the people that truly went vertical in this building. He interacted with all the programmes and that was very special,” recounted Professor Mariano Garcia-Blanco, who was a former faculty member with the Emerging Infectious Diseases Programme and is now with the University of Virginia.
Cycling buddy and Duke Professor Christopher Counter shared a photo of Prof Virshup and him posing by a number one finger statue on one of their cycling trips. “It makes me think that maybe they put this up just for the day because David is number one. He’s a fantastic colleague, a revered scientist, a loved mentor and I have nothing but respect for him. I thank you ever so much for all the work that you’ve done for the field and all the people you've trained and for being my friend,” shared Prof Counter.
Former students Duke University Assistant Professor Zahra Kabiri and Dr Xu Peng, an associate research scientist from the Yale School of Medicine, recounted how Prof Virshup’s mentorship shaped their careers.
“I wanted to be somebody like him,” said Asst Prof Kabiri, recalling how attending a talk by Prof Virshup had inspired her to become a physician-scientist.
Dr Xu added, “David is very warm and supportive, like sunshine.”
Reflecting on Prof Virshup’s contributions, Professor Patrick Casey—who played a key role in bringing Prof Virshup to Duke-NUS—shared stories of their collaboration and friendship, and how they built the CSCB programme.
“I think there’s no question that David is an extraordinary scientist. I also think he’s an extraordinary leader,” said Prof Casey, as he pointed out the irony of an old advertising campaign featuring Prof Virshup who was quoted as saying “I am not extraordinary”.
“But what I think is most important to me, is he’s been an extraordinary friend all this time and I very much look forward to the next chapter of his career in Durham,” he concluded.
Closing the event, Duke-NUS Dean Professor Thomas Coffman, emphasised Prof Virshup’s enduring legacy:
“David’s been an iconic presence here at Duke-NUS.”
This includes Prof Virshup’s scientific contributions such as the first made-in-Singapore cancer drug ETC-159, which will remain a milestone for the School, as well as personal achievements like receiving the Singapore Translational Research (STaR) Investigator Award.
“What makes David special is his ability to merge his love for science with his enthusiasm for living a full life,” he added. “While his departure marks the end of a wonderful era, he leaves behind a legacy that’ll live on.”
Dean Prof Thomas Coffman delivers his closing remarks
The symposium’s grand finale placed Prof Virshup in the spotlight, who delivered a heartfelt farewell, blending his trademark humour with sincerity as he looked back on his time at Duke-NUS: “You’ve been like a family to me–a little bit dysfunctional, but family nonetheless. So thank you all for the fantastic 18 years.”
In his speech, Prof Virshup reflects on his journey in science and life
All photos in this story are copyrighted to Duke-NUS Medical School.