Opening The Doors To Cancer Research
Professor Allan Hackshaw, Professor Rakesh Heer, Dr. Jeremy Braybrook, Simon Vincent, Professor Helen McNair, Mr. Mohamed Abulazayem, Dr. Mary Paraskevaidi, Ms Kaainat Khan.
Location
UCL Wilkins Building (Haldane Room)
University College London, Haldane Room, Wilkins Building (Main Building), North Cloisters, Gower Street, London , WC1E 6BT
Times
Wednesday, 14 October 2026
18:00 – 20:00
Admission
Free
Just Turn UpA panel discussion about the world of cancer research, with leading scientists, clinicians and researchers exploring what drives discovery and treatment.
This panel discussion offers a rare opportunity to explore the world of cancer research with experts.
Chaired by Professor Allan Hackshaw, Director of Cancer Research UK and UCL Cancer Trial Centre, and author of widely acclaimed books on grant funding and clinical trials, the discussion brings together leading scientists, clinicians and emerging researchers to share their experiences of discovery, innovation and collaboration.
From the earliest stages of developing a research idea to translating findings into improvements in patient care, the panel will explore how breakthroughs happen, why progress often takes time and the challenges and opportunities facing researchers today. Audiences will gain insight into the creativity, persistence and teamwork that underpin advances in cancer research, as well as the vital role that patients and the public play in shaping the future of healthcare.
Whether you have a personal interest in cancer, are curious about scientific research or simply want to learn more about how new medical discoveries are made, this event offers an engaging and accessible look at the people and processes driving progress.
Programme:
6.00 pm Arrival & Networking
6.25 pm Welcome
6.30 pm Expert Panel Presentations & Discussions
7.30 pm Audience Q&A
7.40 pm Wrap up & Thanks
8.00 End
Chair:
Professor Allan Hackshaw Director Cancer Research UK & UCL Cancer Trials Centre
Panellists:
Professor Rakesh Heer, Chair of Urology, Department of Surgery, Imperial College London and NICE Guideline Writing Chairman (Breast Cancer update 2024)
Professor Helen McNair Translational Therapeutic Radiography, Institute of Cancer Research Lead Clinical Academic Radiographer, The Royal Marsden
Dr. Jeremy Braybrook Consultant Medical Oncologist & Associate Professor, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston
Daryia Palityka, MD, MSc, PhD Candidate, Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction, UCL
Dr. Simon Vincent Chief Scientific Officer, Breast Cancer Now
Mary van Zyl Advanced Nurse Practitioner (DDU) The Royal Marsden, Sutton
Natalia Trzeciak, PhD Researcher, Visiting Research Associate, UWL
Kaainat Khan | PhD Candidate | EPSRC CDT in Next Generation Organ-on-a-Chip Technology, QMU
This panel discussion opens the doors to the world of cancer research.
Chaired by Professor Allan Hackshaw (internationally renowned researcher & author of widely acclaimed books on grant funding and clinical trials), discussions brings together leading scientists, clinicians and emerging researchers to explore how creativity, collaboration and persistence drive discovery.
From lab bench to bedside, hear how new ideas take shape, why breakthroughs take time and how hope inspires innovation. A celebration of science, people and progress — and the shared creativity that powers change
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