aicri

Irish Cancer Society partners with the All-Island Cancer Research Institute (AICRI) to fund innovative new research role

€225,000 investment aims to inform the prioritisation of cancer research across the island of Ireland

The Irish Cancer Society has today announced a new partnership with the All-Island Cancer Research Institute (AICRI) designed to drive forward collaborative approaches to cancer research across the island of Ireland.

The three-year collaboration will see the Society invest €225,000, to fund the position of Irish Cancer Society AICRI Research Analyst. This role has been awarded to Shashank Srinivas, whose initial work will include producing a detailed report on the cancer research landscape across the island of Ireland, and recommendations for how best we can develop synergies both north and south of the border.  

By investing in the All-Island Cancer Research Institute (AICRI), the Irish Cancer Society aims to unite research communities and reduce fragmentation across the island of Ireland. 

Dr Claire Kilty, Head of Research at the Irish Cancer Society said: “We are thrilled to partner with the All-Island Cancer Research Institute (AICRI) on this innovative and exciting new research partnership. We are delighted to have Shashank Srinivas on board and look forward to harnessing his findings on the research landscape on the island of Ireland. This investment into cancer research is only possible because of the continued support of our amazing fundraisers and volunteers.”

Professor William Gallagher, Full Professor of Cancer Biology, University College Dublin, Scientific Director, St. Vincent’s-UCD Cancer Centre and Co-Lead, All-Island Cancer Research Institute (AICRI) said:“I want to thank the Irish Cancer Society for this investment and I’m looking forward to a fantastic partnership. The challenges posed for cancer research across the island of Ireland are such that extensive targeted investments like this one, are required to bring about improvements for our future. Through AICRI, we have huge ambitions for the cancer research outlook on the island of Ireland. Today’s announcement is a step towards realising those ambitions.”

Professor Mark Lawler, Professor of Digital Health, Queen’s University Belfast and Co-Lead, AICRI said: “It is critical that we make decisions in relation to prioritising cancer research on the island of Ireland based on data intelligence, not on opinion. This investment by the Irish Cancer Society will provide the vital evidence to inform our all-island approach to deliver high-quality cancer research that is patient-centric, and data informed. Remember – Cancer Knows No Borders, neither should we”   

Shashank Srinivas, Irish Cancer Society AICRI Research Analyst said: “I am honoured to have been awarded this new research role as part of the AICRI team through funding from the Irish Cancer Society. This investment by the Irish Cancer Society will facilitate a long-term North-South partnership based on a shared mission to deliver the major improvements in cancer research that our patients deserve. 

“Our aim is to scrutinise trends in the cancer research landscape on the island of Ireland, pinpointing strengths and areas for improvement, ultimately providing evidence-based recommendations to inform research strategy and policy. This collaboration stands to significantly advance our understanding and approach to cancer research, ensuring that we address critical needs and maximally leverage opportunities for the benefit of all cancer patients on the island.”