Funding Future Cancer Researchers in North Wales

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board will offer eight junior doctors the chance to pursue a Master of Research (MRes) degree through the Maelor Academic Unit of Medical and Surgical Sciences in Wrexham, nurturing advanced skills and encouraging innovative cancer research.

About the Programme

Each year, two junior doctors will undertake cancer research projects, led by Professor Stephen Hughes. The degree encourages independent study and teaches research methodologies, providing valuable training for career progression.

In their first year, the students will complete learning modules and, by the end of the year, will choose a research title. While all projects must involve cancer, students have the flexibility to choose topics aligned with their interests and specialisms.

This course is one of five available through the Maelor Academic Unit of Medical and Surgical Sciences. The unit aims to encourage research and promote academic activity across North Wales. It offers lifelong learning for health professionals and maintains strong connections with universities nationwide.

As Director of the Maelor Academic Unit, Professor Hughes guides students throughout their MRes journeys. His research focuses on prostate and bladder cancers, and he currently leads a study developing new screening tools for the early diagnosis of prostate cancer. Reflecting on the impact of the course, Professor Hughes notes:

“This funding provides an excellent opportunity for doctors to gain a postgraduate qualification and conduct research involving cancer patients. We genuinely feel it will help train the next generation of consultant oncologists and provide a springboard for them to one day develop their own cancer research projects.”

Supporting Lifelong Learning and Career Development

Lifelong learning is essential for healthcare professionals to stay up to date with modern technologies and treatments. By continually developing their skills and knowledge, doctors can deliver the highest standard of care for patients across the region.

This degree also gives junior doctors a unique opportunity to access laboratory experience. Dr Joanne Cooper, now in her second year of the MRes, says this exposure has already enhanced her clinical work, giving her a stronger understanding of the testing processes involved in cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Vital Support

The funding provided by North West Cancer Research covers tuition fees and consumables for the next five years. Programme Director Professor Iqbal Shergill highlighted the real‑world impact:

“The support from North West Cancer Research is enabling our junior doctors to carry out studies that will benefit patients in the future. We’re already researching prognostic and surgical outcome markers in bladder cancer, with similar work underway in breast cancer. With continued support, we hope to expand this work to prostate cancer – the most common cancer in the UK.”

The Academic Unit is also preparing to move into a new facility, offering additional space and resources to further strengthen cancer research and patient care across North Wales. Professor Hughes hopes the expansion will allow the team to increase capacity and support even more participants to lead innovation in their fields.

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