Oncology research experts from around the country have joined forces to establish a new collaborative effort, aimed at accelerating particular types of cancer research covering key areas such as early diagnosis, surgery, immunotherapy and radiotherapy.
The NIHR Oncology Translational Research Collaboration (O-TRC) will allow for more oncology research work to be conducted in partnership, facilitating work which would not be possible by centres working alone.
This work carried out by the O-TRC will also complement research undertaken by other cancer research networks.
Chairing the new O-TRC effort will be the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) at The Royal Marsden and The Institute of Cancer Research, London - the UK’s only NIHR BRC solely dedicated to cancer research.
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.”
