Updates from the SCRC
One year of the Sussex Cancer Research Centre
One year ago, with support from a large community of researchers, health care professionals and people with experience of cancer, we launched the Sussex Cancer Research Centre (SCRC). Our central aim is to bring together cancer scientists, clinicians, allied health professionals, and people with lived experience to pioneer interdisciplinary research that improves treatment and outcomes for people with cancer.
We draw on expertise from Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS), the Universities of Brighton and Sussex, University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust (UHSx), neighbouring hospitals, and industry partners. Importantly, our work is shaped at every level by people impacted by cancer.
So, one year on—how are we doing?
New pump-priming grant call open for applications, supported by the Sussex Cancer Fund
The Sussex Cancer Research Centre is excited to announce a new round of funding available thanks to the incredible support of our partners: The Sussex Cancer Fund.
Thank you for your support of the SCRC Annual Symposium
The Sussex Cancer Research Centre Annual Symposium took place on Tuesday 17 June 2025 at the Audrey Emerton Building and marked the culmination of the Centre’s first year. The full-day event featured inspiring talks from researchers across the centre and individuals with lived experience of cancer, lively poster sessions from students and early-career researchers—with poster prizes awarded—and recognition of outstanding research achievements.
Congratulations to Dr Jasmeen Oberoi who was awarded the inaugural SCRC Rising Star Award.
Congratulations to Dr Stephen Robinson and Aimilia Vareli for winning the SCRC Poster Prizes.
Thank you to all our sponsors who made the event possible, check out their information at the end of this e-mail.
Have your say in setting the priorities for the SCRC
Last year, you told us your priorities, and you can read above about how we got on.
This year we want you to help shape the future of the SCRC by answering a few quick questions.
For Researchers
South West Structural Biology Consortium 2025
The South West Structural Biology Consortium (SWSBC) Annual Meeting will be held on 21 - 22 July 2025 at the University of Sussex.
The conference is for scientists from the Universities of Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter, Reading, Portsmouth, Southampton and Sussex with an interest in structural biology; using techniques ranging from X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, NMR to computational modelling and molecular simulations.
All attendees, especially postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows, are encouraged to submit an abstract, and to present either a poster or a talk. Prizes will be awarded for best poster and talk.
The deadline to submit an abstract for the South West Structural Biology Consortium Meeting 2025 is Friday 4 July.
General Interest Events
Upcoming event: Francis Crick Prize Lecture "Unravelling the origins of childhood cancer"
Registrations are now open for the Francis Crick Prize Lecture delivered by Professor Sam Behjati in October.
From our supporters
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.
SARSTEDT
SARSTEDT, a family-run company, has been a leader in laboratory and medical technology for over six decades. 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.
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.