Our research data strategy
The power of data science
As the leading funder of cancer research in the UK, we are in a unique position to influence how we use data in our life-saving work.
Our new Research Data Strategy will unleash the potential of data science to help build a better future for people affected by cancer.
Discovering new ways to prevent, detect and treat cancer
Data science is already providing cancer insights. But there are some challenges that prevent us from using research data in the most effective way. We aim to improve how we use research data to answer important questions that lead to better patient outcomes.
In our Research Data Strategy, we set out how we intend to scale up our current activities to unleash the enormous power of big data. Our aim is to create a research culture to support timely, transparent and ethical curation and use of data in cancer research. To achieve this we're focusing on 8 foundations:
- Build trust through public and patient involvement
Make sure we’re using data ethically and consulting people affected by cancer
- Maximise the intellectual value of research data
Make it easier to find, access, reuse and connect with other data sources
- Strengthen the national cancer data science environment
Influence across the UK to streamline access to health data
- Create a community for cancer data scientists
Bring together researchers to share learnings and collaborate on shared challenges
- Support the translation of insights from big data into patient benefits
Work to translate insights within our own network and through public, private and third party partnerships
- Provide training and career support for data scientists
Strengthen the path into data science and build our capacity to harness the full potential of research data
- Ensure all parts of society benefit equally from cancer data science
Champion diversity and inclusion across the data science workforce, research participants and the digital tools used to glean insights from data
- Improve the sustainability and efficiency of data science practices
Reduce the environmental impact of storing and analysing big data
We will soon announce some exemplar research programmes to demonstrate the value of taking a data science approach to cancer research and embody these 8 foundations to leave a legacy of data improvements.
Funding opportunities in data science
As part of our Research Data Strategy, we're looking for innovative researchers and welcome proposals involving data science across our funding portfolio. Apply through our funding opportunities now.
Don't miss announcements about our exemplar programmes in data science and dedicated funding for data science projects. Register for our newsletter for the latest information about our available funding.
Our research strategy
We invest in creative people who can deliver research of the highest quality.
Our strategy shapes how we'll discover more about the mechanisms of how cancer develops and progresses to unlock new and better ways to prevent, detect and treat it.
Principles for data partnerships
We believe that private sector organisations are important partners in translating data insights into real-world patient benefits. We’re dedicated to ensuring continued responsible use and secure sharing of health-relevant data across our network.
As part of our commitment to maintaining trust, transparency and accountability, we’ve consulted extensively with the public, patients and our partners to establish a set of guiding principles governing partnerships that involve health-relevant data.
What do we mean by research data?
When we talk about research data, we mean any data generated by or used for cancer research. This includes non-human data, such as data collected about mouse models, and human data from blood, cells or tissue samples, imaging, clinical trials or health and fitness devices.
It can also include electronic health records and administrative and environmental data.
Trusted research environment
Coming soon: Through our own trusted research environment (TRE) we will be able to provide a state-of-the-art setting where researchers can securely store, access and analyse patient data to inform cancer care.
Our TRE will be available to researchers working on projects that closely align with our research priorities, who do not have access to a suitable TRE locally.
Case studies
Patient data is an incredible resource for cancer research to drive improvements in prevention, detection and treatment to improve outcomes.
Understanding Patient Data, an organisation aiming to make the way patient data is used more visible, understandable and trustworthy, offers a number of case studies illustrating just how great this impact can be for people affected by cancer.
Contact us
If you have questions about our Research Data Strategy or want to find opportunities relevant to your research area, contact our research funding team at researchdata@cancer.org.uk.
Dr Melissa Lewis-Brown
Head of Research Data Strategy
Dr Alexis Webb
Research Programme Manager - Research Data Strategy
Matt Howard-Murray
Public Involvement Lead - Research Data Strategy