Look at tissue
We use microscopes and special stains to see different kinds of cells and the fibres around them.
For everyone
Cancer research.
In everyday language.
For patients, families, schools and anyone who is curious about our work.
The question behind our science
What helps cancer spread?
A tumour is more than cancer cells. It also contains immune cells, blood vessels and a network of fibres that supports the tissue.
We study how these neighbours influence each other. The arrangement of cells and fibres may help explain why some cancers stay in one place while others spread. Our work focuses especially on melanoma, a type of skin cancer, and pancreatic cancer.
By understanding these relationships, we hope to find clues that could help researchers recognise more aggressive disease and develop better ways to study or treat it.
How we investigate
Three ways to look closer.
Build models
We grow cells in three-dimensional environments to explore how their surroundings change their behaviour.
Find patterns
We use computer tools, including artificial intelligence, to find patterns in tissue images and test whether those patterns are useful.
These are research studies. They do not currently provide an individual diagnostic test.
Patients & the public
Your experience matters.
Living with cancer, caring for someone or supporting a family member brings knowledge that researchers need to hear.
We welcome conversations about the questions that matter to you, how we explain our work and how research could be more relevant to people affected by cancer.
Talk to us about involvementOutreach & discovery
Bring your curiosity.
Schools & community groups
Interested in discussing cancer research, microscopes or AI with our team? Contact us to explore what might be possible.
Ask about outreachSee the people behind the science
Explore team moments, research visits and conferences in Lab life, or follow our Instagram.
Visit Lab lifeA few useful words
Our science, translated.
What is the extracellular matrix?
The network of proteins and fibres around cells. It supports tissue and also gives cells physical and chemical signals.
What is spatial biology?
Studying where cells and molecules are in a tissue, and how their neighbours and surroundings affect them.
What is digital pathology?
Studying tissue through digital microscope images. Computer tools can help researchers measure patterns across large amounts of tissue.
What does AI do in our research?
AI helps us look for patterns in images and other research data. We test those patterns carefully; a computer prediction is not the same as a diagnosis.
Looking for cancer information?
Find patient information and support from specialist charities.