MP dons labcoat for a ‘day in the life’ with cancer researchers

Ellesmere Port and Neston MP Andrew Miller, swapped legislation for a lab coat when he was invited to spend the day at the North West Cancer Research (NWCR) Centre, Liverpool University, by its Director Professor Sarah Coupland. The visit was part of a unique ‘pairing scheme’ run by The Royal Society which aims to build bridges between parliamentarians and some of the best scientists in the UK; Professor Coupland recently spent a week in Westminster to find out more about how science policy is formed. 

During the visit Mr Miller met researchers based at the NWCR Centre and on the University campus to discuss how their work fits in with wider cancer strategies in the region. He also made a presentation to the researchers about how they as scientists can help to influence government policy. 

“Keeping up with the rapidly changing world is challenging, no more so than in areas of scientific research. As part of this pairing scheme, Professor Coupland and I aim to have a better idea of how our respective worlds work, and more importantly for me to improve my ability to advocate the case for science investment in important areas like this,” said Mr Miller.

Cancer is the biggest killer in Liverpool ; in 2011, about 1,300 people died from cancer and cancer- related illnesses. The number of new cancer cases in Liverpool was also said to be higher than the rest of England with people in the region 20% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer than anywhere else in the UK.  

Professor Coupland said: “Understanding the political landscape is vital if we are to continue to make significant inroads into cancer research. As scientists, we need to understand how our research affects the bigger picture when it comes to cancer strategies and policies. 

“It is equally important for policy makers to understand how our research is helping to progress the development of new treatments and therapeutic targets. I can now share what I have learned with my fellow researchers at the North West Cancer Research Centre and use this to enable a better understanding between our two very different worlds.”