Published: 17 February 2021
Oncology research experts from across the country have come together to establish a new collaboration to accelerate cancer research, translating scientific discoveries into tangible benefits for patients.
The NIHR Oncology Translational Research Collaboration (TRC) brings together leading cancer researchers from across the NIHR’s Biomedical Research Centres (BRC) to drive forward innovative research in key areas including early diagnosis, surgery, immunotherapy and radiotherapy. Through working in partnership, the Oncology TRC will be able to carry out research that requires real collaborative effort, and would not be possible by centres working alone. It will also complement research undertaken by other cancer research networks.
The NIHR BRC at The Royal Marsden and The Institute of Cancer Research, London, the UK's only NIHR BRC dedicated solely to cancer, will chair this new Oncology TRC.
Professor Stan Kaye, Consultant Medical Oncologist at The Royal Marsden and Chair of the collaboration, said:
“Progress in cancer research demands collaboration and I am delighted the NIHR's leading Biomedical Research Centres will unite through the Oncology TRC. Our programme of work is just beginning, and I am confident that it has the potential to make a significant contribution to improving cancer treatment and care in the next few years.”
Louise Knowles, Head of Research Faculty, Infrastructure and Growth at the Department of Health and Social Care, said:
“It is fantastic to see our nation’s leading oncology expertise coming together to maximise the impact of the ground breaking research taking place in the NIHR’s Biomedical Research Centres. Our experience from COVID-19 has clearly demonstrated that collaborative working can drive forward life saving research. By pooling collective expertise, the Oncology TRC has the potential to accelerate innovations and provide real benefit for people with cancer.”
By working collaboratively, the Oncology TRC will share expertise and best practice, map the landscape to identify gaps in research and areas of unmet need, and identify opportunities to work with external partners including industry and charities.
Find out more about the Oncology TRC or contact nocri@nihr.ac.uk to find out how you can work with the collaboration.