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Welcome to the John van Geest Cancer Research Centre newsletter 

This spring has been an exciting and busy time for the John van Geest Cancer Research Centre (JvGCRC). We have welcomed many new faces to the Centre recently, including talented new researchers and valued members of the NTU community who attended our very first JvGCRC Supporter Day. This was a wonderful opportunity to connect and share our work, and we look forward to hosting the event again in the future. 

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who makes the vital work at the JvGCRC possible. Your support is deeply appreciated and plays a crucial role in advancing the fight against cancer.

Fundraiser spotlight: Karen Parkin

NTU are delighted to be a Bronze Charity Partner for the Robin Hood Half Marathon again this year. We are very proud that many fundraisers are NTU staff and students, and would like to shine a spotlight on Karen Parkin in our Estates team, who has chosen to run in support of the JvGCRC this year. 

Karen was drawn to this cause as her family is one of many that have been hit by the devastating impact of cancer, with her mum, sister and best friend all having been diagnosed with bowel cancer. Karen tragically lost her mum to this disease. In her memory, she was motivated to raise money and awareness in the fight against cancer. 

We can't wait to cheer Karen on, and all the other wonderful runners in September. If you would also like to support Karen’s commitment to combatting the impact of cancer, please visit her fundraising page and donate to this worthy cause.

Do you have a passion for running, and want to take on a challenge this year on behalf of the JvGCRC? 

We have several free places still available in the Robin Hood Half Marathon and child-friendly Mini Marathon, taking place on Sunday 28 September. 

Visit our website to find out more, or contact the team at giving@ntu.ac.uk.  

Staff introduction: Dr Scott Gregory

Dr Scott Gregory is a Research Assistant at the JvGCRC. He provides expertise in flow cytometry to support internal and external projects at NTU in areas such as cancer immunology, cell biology and microbiology. Dr Gregory completed his BSc in Biomedical Science at Nottingham Trent University with a placement year at LGC Ltd in Cambridgeshire. 

He then went on to complete his MSc in Cancer Immunology and Biotechnology at the University of Nottingham. 

JvGCRC Supporter Day 2025

On 8 April 2025, we were thrilled to welcome supporters of the JvGCRC for a tour of the facilities, and a chance to meet the research team and learn about their work in developing innovative methods for cancer detection and treatment. 

The event was opened by the Centre's Director, Professor Sergio Rutella, who welcomed our valued donors, fundraisers and supporters of our work within the medical and scientific community. Following the welcome, members of our research team led guided tours of the cutting-edge facilities, showcasing the spaces where your support is driving breakthroughs that will transform the lives of those affected by cancer.

Thank you to everyone who attended this event, we hope you enjoyed seeing the exciting progress fuelled by your generosity, and we look forward to welcoming you to our next event.

Nottingham Trent University, 50 Shakespeare Street, Nottingham, NG1 4FQ.