Exceptional individuals transforming cancer care through vaccine science have been honoured at the first ever Cancer Vaccine Awards Ceremony.
Hosted by the UK Oncology Forum in Harrogate last night, the ceremony brought together nearly 2,000 clinicians, pharmacists and nurses to celebrate a new era in oncology.
In a moving opening address senior government advisor, Dr Lennard Lee, reflected on how the UK made a bold decision in 2022 to pivot its world-leading pandemic research capabilities toward cancer vaccine development.
He said: “We made a choice — to act where the science was ready and the need was great. Just three years on, the UK has gone from conducting no cancer vaccine trials to becoming one of the top global recruiters.
“Patients are now receiving next-generation therapies, and trials are completing ahead of time. This is a stunning achievement and it’s because of the people in this room.”
The awards were the result of a nationwide nomination process, with nearly 100 medical oncologists considered and a shortlist of 10 put to a public vote this spring.
The winners exemplify leadership, innovation, and dedication to patient-centred progress.
🎖️ Award Winners 2025:
- Outstanding Contribution to Cancer Vaccine Research: Professor Sarah Danson (University of Sheffield) – Recognised for longstanding commitment to cancer vaccine science
- Excellence in Cancer Vaccine Clinical Trials: Professor Rob Jones (Liverpool) – Celebrated for leadership in delivering safe, efficient, and impactful trials
- Innovation in Cancer Vaccine Development: Professor Lindy Durrant (Nottingham) – Honoured for pioneering breakthroughs in vaccine technology
- Rising Star in Cancer Vaccine Research: Dr Nangi Lo (South Devon Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust) – Acknowledged for outstanding early-career contributions
- Leadership in Cancer Vaccine Policy and Advocacy: Associate Professor Lennard Lee (Oxford) – Commended for national leadership and shaping the future of cancer vaccine delivery
The awards were presented by Dr Ricky Frazer, consultant at Velindre Cancer Centre and national lead, who praised the quality and integrity of all nominees.
Dr Frazer said: “It was incredibly difficult to choose just five winners — there is so much excellence across the UK. Tonight, we celebrate not just individuals, but the shared momentum of an entire community.”
UK Oncology Forum director Sharon Poole said “It was a profound privilege to unite the nation’s most exceptional cancer trialists under one roof.
“At the heart of the UK’s largest cancer conference, we paused to recognise not just scientific excellence, but the bravery, perseverance and humanity that drive it.
“The achievements of these awardees embody the very best of our field — and they remind us what’s possible when science and purpose come together.”
This landmark ceremony underscores the UK’s ambition to lead the world in cancer vaccine development.
With a national goal to enrol 10,000 patients into trials and make the UK a global hub for every cancer vaccine platform, the future looks hopeful.
Pictured: Senior government advisor, Dr Lennard Lee, who gave the opening address at the Cancer Vaccine Awards Ceremony.
