On Monday 8 December, the Cancer, Immunology, Matrix (CIM) Connect event brought researchers and clinicians from across Manchester together for an evening of rapid-fire talks, shared insights, and lively discussion focused on tumour–microenvironment interactions.

Hosted at the Oglesby Cancer Research Building, the event showcased the breadth and depth of research taking place across the Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, the Division of Cancer Sciences, the Manchester Cell-Matrix Centre, and the Manchester Immuno-Oncology Network.

The programme featured a series of short 5-minute presentations that offered a snapshot of the innovative science driving Manchester’s cancer, cell-matrix and immunology research. Presentations covered a wide range of topics, spanning how mechanical forces, inflammation, and the microbiome shape cancer immunity, to new insights into tumour–host interactions in challenging diseases such as pancreatic and brain tumours. Speakers also highlighted advances in understanding immune-related toxicity, the power of cutting-edge technologies for mapping the tumour microenvironment, and there was an introduction to the recently launched MRC CoRE in Exposome Immunology.

Speakers included:

• Dr Joan Chang

• Professor Patrick Caswell

• Dr Adam Byron

• Dr Santiago Zelenay

• Dr Evangelos Giampazolias

• Professor Claus Jorgensen

• Professor Mark Travis

• Professor Kevin Couper

• Professor Matt Hepworth

Professor Rachel Lennon, Director of the Manchester Cell-Matrix Centre, reflected on the significance of the meeting:
“The Cancer, Immunology, Matrix Connect event was excellent! Clear synergies emerged between these research pillars in Manchester, and I’m confident this meeting will catalyse new collaborations.”

Professor Martin McCabe from the Division of Cancer Sciences echoed this enthusiasm:
“The event was a fantastic opportunity for cross-fertilisation of ideas and expertise in cancer, cell-matrix biology and the immune microenvironment. After some dynamic, engaging talks, it was great to see the energy in the room as academics from all disciplines mingled to discuss areas of commonality for future collaboration.”

The strong turnout and positive feedback highlighted a clear appetite for bringing Manchester’s cancer, immunology and cell-matrix research communities closer together. 

CIM Connect has laid the groundwork for new partnerships, shared projects, and a more integrated approach to understanding and targeting the tumour microenvironment.

Photos by Brian Chan

Related