Updates from the SCRC
New Funding Available
We're excited to announce new round of cancer research funding!
The latest Sussex Cancer Fund-SCRC awards invite proposals for innovative cancer research that needs early stage or translational support, offering funding for projects of up to £10,000, or larger projects up to £30,000. While applications across the field are welcome, the call highlights interest in projects involving data driven approaches, established population datasets, cancer prevention, early diagnosis of cancer, and the links between cancer and mental health. The scheme, supported by the Sussex Cancer Fund and its donors, aims to advance translational work and strengthen collaboration across partner institutions.
SCRC 3rd Annual Symposium tickets are now live!
The Sussex Cancer Research Centre is delighted to invite you all to our 3rd Symposium, celebrating our growing community of cancer researchers across the University of Sussex, University of Brighton, BSMS, and local NHS Trusts.
This event will showcase cutting-edge cancer research, collaborations, and innovations taking place across Sussex. Researchers, clinicians, students, and our local communities are warmly invited to join us for an inspiring day of talks, networking, and discovery.
To book your free ticket please follow the link.
For People with Lived Experience of Cancer
New Research Study: Help Us Understand Fatigue After Breast Cancer Treatment
We are excited to announce that recruitment has opened for a new research study funded by the Sussex Cancer Fund and sponsored by the University of Brighton. The study will explore why some women feel more fatigued, sometimes months after their breast cancer treatment is finished.
Who can take part? We are looking for women aged 18–60 who are experiencing fatigue and are in remission from breast cancer (with treatment completed within the last 24 months). We are also looking for women who are aged 18–60, healthy, and are not experiencing fatigue for a comparison group.
What is the study about? Fatigue is one of the most common and distressing symptoms reported by people living with and beyond cancer. Despite how widespread it is, we still don’t fully understand what causes it or how to treat it effectively. In this study, we will explore the hypothesis that cancer and its treatments could change how the brain interprets signals from the body – such as heartbeat, temperature, and muscle exertion – potentially making everyday activities feel more tiring than they should. By understanding this brain–body connection, researchers hope to reveal why fatigue affects some women more severely than others – and why some may feel particularly fatigued during exercise. This insight is especially valuable because regular exercise is actually recommended to help manage cancer-related fatigue. Ultimately, the study hopes to make recovery smoother and more effective.
What does taking part involve? The team will first provide you with information about the study and give you time to consider what is involved and ask any questions. If you decide to take part, you will be invited to attend a visit lasting approximately 3 hours, at the University of Brighton’s Falmer campus. On the day of your visit, you will be met by one member of the research team who will remind you of what is involved, answer your questions and provide you with a consent form to sign. We will ask for your permission to collect some information from your medical records. Then you will be asked to complete some questionnaires, have a go at some non-invasive physical tasks, including a hand grip exercise and three tests that explore your ability to recognise different sensations. Lastly you will be asked to provide a small saliva sample. During the visit you will be welcome to take breaks or choose to stop completely if you wish to do so.
Please note: The aim of this research study is to collect data that will help us generate new scientific knowledge. The team is not testing a treatment, and there is no expected direct benefit to participants. However, it is anticipated that your involvement will contribute to a better understanding of cancer-related fatigue and you may help improve care for others in the future. Thank you for reading this information. If you are interested in finding out more, please get in touch with Rowan via CRFStudy@brighton.ac.uk or 01273 6413731.
News
Sussex Blood Cancer Research 2025 progress update
The Sussex Blood Cancer Research Group has celebrated an exceptional year of progress in 2025, marked by major funding successes, new fellowships, PhD studentships, and impactful pilot awards. The team delivered an impressive portfolio of high-quality publications across blood cancer biology and translational research, alongside multiple PhD completions and presentations at leading national and international conferences. Clinical research also advanced significantly, with active haematology trials and meaningful contributions to national treatment guidelines. Read the full story on our website.
From our supporters
SARSTEDT
SARSTEDT, a family-run company, has been a leader in laboratory and medical technology for over six decades. As a global team of more than 3,000 employees, we share a unified goal: to support laboratory professionals and medical practitioners. From development to production and sales, we ensure that our customers’ visions are implemented with precision and efficiency. We ensure the highest quality through standardised processes, constant monitoring and analysis. We also hold a deep commitment to the environment and future generations.
Apto-Gen
Apto-Gen is a technology-driven company dedicated to providing market-leading PCR and RT-qPCR enzymes and master mixes. Our mission is to improve DNA and RNA detection for more accurate diagnoses by bringing bespoke, high-quality molecular biology reagents to the healthcare and biotechnology markets.
Our Apto-Life product range has been developed for use in a broad range of life science applications, including high-performance RT-qPCR solutions for gene expression, genotyping and genetic studies, and high-fidelity DNA polymerases with enhanced processivity for cloning and sequencing applications.
Eppendorf
Eppendorf’s purpose to improve human living conditions is as old as the company itself and has lost none of its significance or power over the years. Our products, systems and services enable, improve, and facilitate research and routine work in laboratories all over the world. They inspire through innovation, quality, intelligence, performance, economic efficiency, ergonomics, and design. We are characterized by continuous investment in the innovation of our products, services, and business solutions, including through the involvement of partners and customers.
Qiagen
QIAGEN serves more than 500,000 customers globally, all seeking insights from DNA, RNA, and proteins. Using any biological sample, they are advancing science and improving outcomes for people everywhere. Our products for molecular testing serve applications from basic life sciences research to clinical healthcare. Together, we are making improvements in life possible.