Oxford Science Park cancer experts honoured at inaugural Cancer Vaccine Awards

02 July 2025

Two prominent cancer experts based at The Oxford Science Park have been recognised at the UK’s first-ever Cancer Vaccine Awards Ceremony, which celebrated outstanding contributions to cancer vaccine science and clinical innovation across the country.

Professor Lindy Durrant, founder and CSO of Scancell, which is headquartered at The Oxford Science Park, received the Innovation in Cancer Vaccine Development award. Her pioneering breakthroughs in vaccine technology have placed Scancell at the forefront of therapeutic cancer vaccine research, with promising platforms now progressing through clinical trials targeting hard-to-treat tumours.

Joining her among the five national award winners was Dr Lennard Lee, Chief Medical Officer at the Ellison Institute of Technology Clinic, also based at the Park. He was recognised for his pivotal role in shaping national cancer vaccine strategy and driving forward the UK’s policy agenda in this rapidly evolving field.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Lee reflected on the UK’s decision in 2022 to pivot its world-leading pandemic research infrastructure toward cancer vaccine development:

“We made a choice to act where the science was ready and the need was great. Just three years on, the UK has gone from conducting no cancer vaccine trials to becoming one of the top global recruiters. Patients are now receiving next-generation therapies, and trials are completing ahead of time. This is a stunning achievement and it’s because of the people in this room.”

The event, hosted by the UK Oncology Forum in Harrogate, brought together nearly 2,000 clinicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals. A nationwide nomination and public vote process culminated in the awards, which celebrated excellence in research, clinical trials, innovation, policy, and early-career contributions.

As the UK sets its sights on enrolling 10,000 patients in cancer vaccine trials, The Oxford Science Park is proud to be home to leading experts and companies driving this effort forward.

Read other news articles

News