Institute scientist heads up research stream at Wales Cancer Research Centre

Dr Richard Clarkson has been named as the new lead of signalling and stem cell research at the Wales Cancer Research Centre (WCRC).

Funded by the Welsh Government, the Wales Cancer Research Centre is a vital part of the Health and Care Research Wales’ infrastructure. Its aim is to perform and support cancer research of the highest quality, which builds on Wales’ international research reputation, and with a clear focus on collaboration, innovation and improved patient outcomes.

The Centre is led from Cardiff University with an all-Wales brief and research partners include NHS Wales, Welsh universities, cancer charities and the pharmaceuticals industry.

The signalling and stem cell research stream headed up by Dr Clarkson is focused on finding the ‘Achilles Heel’ of cancerous tumours and attacking them with targeted therapies. Ultimately, this research stream aims to develop new drugs, validate new therapies and deliver more accurate prognoses for cancer patients.

Dr Clarkson is a Senior Lecturer in cancer research at the European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, University of Cardiff School of Biosciences. His research group focuses on identifying novel therapeutic strategies to eliminate or modify the cancer cells responsible for the spread of tumours around the body, the main cause of deaths in cancer patients.

He is also co-founder of Tiziana Life Sciences Plc, an AIM-listed biotech company which has entered into exclusive licenses for two first-in-class anti-cancer agents, including a novel anti-cancer stem cell agent.

Dr Clarkson said “I am excited to be given the opportunity to head up the signalling and stem cell research stream for the WCRC. Cancer stem cells is an exciting and innovative area of research that has the potential to make a real difference to the lives of cancer patients, and it is a perfect fit with my work at the European Cancer Stem Cell Institute.”

Professor John Chester, Director of the WCRC, said ““We are delighted to have Richard join the WCRC leadership team. He brings with him a wealth of experience, and we are sure he will provide an outstanding new dimension for WCRC’s signalling and stem cell research.”