Cancer Grand Challenges launches global initiative to take on toughest problems

International think tanks to shape future of cancer research funding

Cancer Grand Challenges, a pioneering initiative co-founded by Cancer Research UK and the US National Cancer Institute (NCI), has launched a global search to identify the most pressing challenges in cancer research.

This multi-million-pound effort aims to bring together the world’s leading scientists and patient advocates to drive significant progress against cancer.

Starting today, a series of think tanks will be held in major cities including Paris, New York, Madrid, and Oxford, concluding in December.

These gatherings will unite top researchers to pinpoint the biggest obstacles in cancer treatment and research. The insights gained will shape the next round of funding, with Cancer Grand Challenges committing tens of millions of pounds over five years to interdisciplinary teams tackling these issues.

Dr David Scott, Director of Cancer Grand Challenges at Cancer Research UK, highlighted the initiative’s unique approach: “A true grand challenge is defined by its potential to achieve breakthroughs that other research programmes cannot. Only through team science, on a global scale, have we been able to make the types of strides against cancer that Cancer Grand Challenges teams have achieved.”

Since its inception nearly a decade ago, Cancer Grand Challenges has awarded £315 million to 16 research teams. These teams are addressing critical issues such as mapping the tumour microenvironment, understanding cancer cachexia, and investigating the rise of cancers in people under 50.

Professor Bruno Quesnel, Director of the Research and Innovation Division at the French National Cancer Institute (INCa), expressed his enthusiasm: “The French National Cancer Institute is honoured to co-host this Cancer Grand Challenges think tank. This is an opportunity to drive the French cancer research community’s involvement in solving the big questions that still impede progress for cancer patients.”

As the initiative moves forward, the collaboration between researchers and patient advocates promises to pave the way for ground-breaking advancements in cancer treatment and care.