UCD Cancer Research Symposium 2024 @ UCD Conway

On Friday, 7th June 2024, the fourth UCD Cancer Research Symposium took place at the Conway Institute of Molecular and Biomedical Research. This bi-annual event offers cancer researchers and clinical staff from UCD, the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, and St Vincent's Hospital a chance to network, collaborate, and discover the latest updates in cancer research.

Nearly 100 researchers, clinicians, nurses, and research support staff attended to support the event and present their work.

The symposium was opened by Prof. Kate Robson Brown, VPRII UCD Research, who highlighted the energy and collaboration within UCD’s cancer research community. This was followed by Prof. William Gallagher, who provided a whistle-stop tour of some of the ongoing cancer research activities at UCD. Dr. Anne Fortune then provided an update from the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, highlighting progress at the START Dublin early phase clinical trial centre. Dr. Chris Crockford followed with an update from St Vincent's University Hospital and the UCD Cancer Trials Cluster, noting the launch of the new UCD-St Vincent’s Cancer Centre and the success of the UCD Cancer Trials Cluster as the highest study recruiter in Ireland. A key takeaway from this session was the openness to cooperation and collaboration, momentum from which was evident on the day.

Following the site updates, a panel discussion was held on PPI (Patient and Public Involvement) in cancer research. The panel included Dr. Emma Dorris (UCD Engaged Research Manager), Prof. Amanda McCann (lead of the UCD Patient Voice in Cancer Research), and Miriam Staunton (Patient Advocate). They discussed key developments in PPI, current barriers and enablers, and the importance and challenges of reimbursing PPI contributors.

During the break, Prof. Walter Kolch led a tour of UCD's cutting-edge laboratories, while other attendees engaged with poster presenters covering a diverse range of topics, from the new START Dublin centre at the Mater Hospital to translational studies on extracellular vesicles (EVs) in monitoring drug response.

A highlight of the symposium was the session on the application of artificial intelligence in cancer research and care, chaired by Ana Le Chevillier, Clinical Research Manager at the UCD Institute for Discovery. Prof. Walter Kolch discussed the creation of digital twin models for cancer research, demonstrating how AI and computational models are revolutionizing personalized treatment options. Prof. Brian MacNamee showcased strides in AI-driven cancer research in Ireland, emphasizing the vast opportunities for local researchers. Dr. Colm Ryan illustrated how AI is driving the development of targeted cancer therapies, highlighting its transformative potential. Prof. William Gallagher concluded with an inspiring talk on the revolution in digital pathology due to AI, underscoring its significant impact on research and clinical practice. Together, these presentations painted a vivid picture of a future where AI fundamentally enhances cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The symposium concluded with its keynote speaker, Prof. Manuel Salto-Tellez, a recognized international leader in molecular and digital pathology. His lecture focused on the application of genomic analysis, digital pathology, artificial intelligence, and integrated diagnostics to develop a new generation of complex, meaningful biomarkers in cancer. Prof. Salto-Tellez’s integrated model of research spans technologies and cancer types, taking clinical and diagnostic needs as the key research focus.

Overall, the symposium was a resounding success, providing a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and bridging the gap between research and practice in the ever-evolving field of cancer research and care. The event demonstrated the dedication and commitment of the clinical and research staff in advancing the fight against cancer.

We hope to welcome everyone back to St Vincent’s University Hospital for the next symposium later in 2024.

The symposium was a collaborative effort from UCD Research, All-Island Cancer Research Institute (AICRI), UCD Cancer Trials Cluster, UCD Institute for Discovery, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, and St Vincent’s University Hospital.