"...I'm delighted to have had the opportunity to make my own contribution to the new research into treatment of cancer.
The medics and researchers do the hard work but I'm pleased I could put their efforts in to practice and test these new treatments."
John Conder, retired Royal Navy serviceman, and
cancer patient participating in a clinical trial in Southampton
The Southampton Cancer Research UK Centre joins the charity's unique UK-wide chain of multi-disciplinary research centres.
The Southampton Centre will focus on the biology and treatment of lymphoma, bladder and breast cancers as well as key research into cancer genetics. The Centre, a virtual network of research groups and organisations in the Southampton area, will also set the pace for national and international progress in cancer immunology and immunotherapy.
It is expected that the Centre will result in closer collaboration amongst researchers and clinicians, leading to greater progress in developing new diagnostic tests to aid early detection.
Southampton already boasts strong expertise in cancer surgery research, particularly for head and neck cancers and breast cancer. Building on this strength, the Centre aims to lead the world in developing treatments tailored to individual cancer patients based on understanding the biology of the disease and how it varies among patients.
The Centre also aims to maintain excellence in training clinical and non-clinical postgraduates with the expansion of an existing four-year PhD programme.
Cancer Research UK already supports research in Southampton but the new Centre of Excellence will see the charity increase its annual contribution to nearly £4m a year.
The Southampton Centre is a partnership between the University of Southampton, Southampton University Hospitals NHS Trust and Cancer Research UK.
Related information on the Southampton Cancer Research UK Centre
