The Cancer Research and Innovation Hub Malta (CRIHM) held its 1st Annual Stakeholders' Meeting, bringing together key stakeholders to reflect on progress achieved and discuss future priorities in cancer research and innovation.
During the event, CRIHM presented an overview of its work during the two years since its inception. This included the presentation of 10 currently financed research projects, as well as 4 EU-awarded projects in which CRIHM is participating.
Participants also took part in six working group discussions focusing on key areas linked to cancer: clinical research, cancer data, screening, funding, industry collaboration, and patients' perspectives. These discussions provided valuable insights into the needs, opportunities, and challenges within Malta's cancer research and innovation ecosystem.
Prof Christian Scerri, Chairman of CRIHM, said that CRIHM was created to bring people together around a shared national cancer research agenda. He noted that, on CRIHM's second anniversary, the meeting provided a timely opportunity to listen, align priorities, and build the partnerships needed for the years ahead. He added that this was not simply a milestone event, but the start of a more structured national conversation on strengthening cancer research, innovation, data, trials, and patient involvement in Malta.
Prof Caroline Magri, Research Lead at Mater Dei Hospital, said that research and innovation are crucial to the certification of MDH SAMOC as a Comprehensive Cancer Centre. While MDH SAMOC provides excellent clinical care to cancer patients, she noted that there remains a significant gap in research. She said CRIHM can make a major impact by joining forces with MDH to promote research at all levels, direct cancer research towards areas that truly benefit the Maltese population, and support the funding, expertise, and stakeholder collaboration needed to improve patient outcomes.
Ian Gauci Borda, Senior Executive of Xjenza Malta, highlighted the growing collaboration between Xjenza Malta and CRIHM on European projects, including ECHoS II, which will support the wider implementation of National Cancer Mission Hubs, and TRANSCAN, which is expected to create new opportunities for Maltese researchers through transnational calls. He also noted CRIHM's role in EU-CIP, including its contribution to the sustainability of the EU Cancer Information Portal and its future availability in Maltese, as well as CANDLE, through which CRIHM is supporting the development of Cancer Data Nodes across Europe, including Malta.
The feedback gathered during the meeting will play an important role in shaping the future direction of the Cancer Research and Innovation Hub Malta, ensuring that its work continues to respond to national priorities and stakeholder needs.