In order to build the critical mass of cancer Early Detection Research that is taking place across multiple departments and disciplines in Cambridge we are proposing to establish a number of Early Detection related interest groups. Our aim is to develop these interest groups to focus on several key research areas critical to early cancer detection. The interest groups will create a community with shared research interests, who will form new collaborations with a view to accelerating research and generating further opportunity for strong funding applications. In the first instance we are proposing four key areas:

• Biomarkers and the tumour microenvironment

• Imaging and devices

• Computational

• Translation and trials.

This launch meeting will take the format of a “Pitchfest”. Following the guidelines given in advance, participants will be invited to give a 5-minute introduction to their work, their areas of interest and what they can offer to the Early Detection Community.

Following these introductory pitches, there will be the opportunity for participants to follow up in greater detail with those colleagues whose research is of interest and has collaborative potential with their own.

Commencing with the Biomarkers and Tumour Microenvironment Interest Group, we are hosting a launch event on Wednesday 14th July at Newnham College, Cambridge, from 5.00-7.00pm. Following this event, we plan to organise further launches of the remaining interest groups.