#IACR – Blog about neuroblastoma research

IACR 2026: Science, Communication, and Impact

I recently had the opportunity to attend and present my research at the Irish Association for Cancer Research Conference 2026 in Galway. This year was particularly special for me, as I was selected as one of six early-career researchers to take part in the Prof. Patrick G. Johnston Award for Excellence in Cancer Research Outreach.

This award recognises researchers who can communicate their work clearly to a public audience. Those selected are chosen based on their lay abstracts and take part in a patient communication workshop ahead of the conference. As part of this, I had the opportunity to work closely with patient advocates and cancer survivors, which was an incredibly valuable experience. It challenged me to think beyond science and focus on how to make my research meaningful, accessible, and relevant to the people it ultimately aims to help.

During the conference, I presented my research as part of this award session, delivering a lay presentation to an audience made up of scientists, patients, and members of the public.

My research focuses on developing 3D lung models to better understand cancer behaviour and explore new ways to target lung cancer using mRNA-based approaches. Being able to present this work in a way that resonated with a non-scientific audience was both challenging and rewarding.

Overall, the conference was an inspiring experience. It reinforced the importance of communication in cancer research and reminded me that behind every project are patients and families who are directly impacted by the work we do.

Until next time,

Written by Eve O’Donoghue

From Bench to Belfast

Thanks to the Breakthrough Cancer Research Education and Travel Award, I had the chance to attend the Irish Association for Cancer Research (IACR) Conference 2025 in Belfast—an insightful and rewarding experience.

I presented a poster on my research into the regulation of GPC2 in lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. The poster session was a great opportunity to share my work, receive constructive feedback, and speak with researchers working on similar topics. These conversations have given me new ideas to take back to the lab.

One of the most valuable sessions for me was the “PPI in Action” workshop, which focused on making patient and public involvement more inclusive. It introduced me to new perspectives on how researchers can engage directly with patients and the public. I left inspired to explore starting a PPI group for lung cancer at my own institution.

Another highlight was the Patrick Johnston Award session, where early-career researchers presented their work in lay terms. It was a strong reminder of the importance of clear, accessible science communication.

Beyond the conference, I enjoyed exploring Belfast—Victoria Square offered amazing views, and the architecture around City Hall was well worth the visit.

Overall, the conference was a great opportunity to connect, learn, and reflect. I’m very grateful to Breakthrough Cancer Research for supporting my attendance and look forward to applying what I learned to my research going forward.

Written by Eve O’Donoghue

The IACR Meeting 2017 is targeting childhood cancer challenges and advancements

This week Newpark Hotel Kilkenny is hosting the Irish Association for Cancer Research annual meeting 2017. This meeting is the biggest event for Irish cancer researchers.

This is the first time in the history of the IACR meetings when an entire plenary session is solely dedicated to challenges and advancements in childhood cancer.

This session will unite Internationally recognised leaders in childhood cancer research. They will speak about what we know about origin and evolution of childhood cancers (Prof. Tariq Enver), how blood biomarkers can help in stratification and treatment of children (Prof. Sue Burchill), what impact Down syndrome has in the white blood cell cancer development and progression (Prof. Irene Roberts), how epigenetic changes affect tumour pathogenesis and future of therapeutics targeting theses changes (Prof Raymond Stallings).