Melissa James is a radiation oncologist practising in Christchurch, New Zealand. Her specialty interests lie in the use of radiation for palliation and in the treatment of breast cancer, brain tumours and melanoma. Her current focus is advocating for adequate workforce and facilities to improve access to radiation treatment within New Zealand. She has been involved with teaching and training registrars and is passionate about training the new generation of radiation oncologists. She is also passionate about improving patient outcomes and has been involved in the introduction of new technology to improve radiation techniques for cancer patients. She has been involved with the advocacy campaign “Targeting Cancer” since its inception. She is currently the clinical director of radiation oncology in Christchurch.