The treatment of cancer is being revolutionised by cancer immunology. However cancer immunology is poorly understood by healthcare workers, patients and the general public. Here, in collaboration with the Irish Cancer Society (ICS), we aim to use the expertise and discoveries generated by HRB and ICS funded research projects to communicate basic cancer immunology concepts and their value to five target audiences: patients, healthcare workers, biotech companies, teenagers and the public. An underpinning objective is to increase awareness of how research contributes to better healthcare as well as new therapies. Our proposed dissemination programmes will use several media, including old fashioned wall-posters and brochures as well as dynamic presentations for social media, utube and websites to communicate to each of our target audiences the molecular, clinical and translational breakthroughs in cancer immunology research in Ireland. In collaboration with the Irish Cancer Society and Science Gallery of Trinity College Dublin, we aim to harness the skills of cancer immunology researchers to work with groups of cancer patients, teenagers whose parents have cancer and members of the public in the development of materials to communicate key issues around cancer immunology. New discoveries in cancer immunology are only possible if patients and healthcare workers are prepared to actively partake in translational research. Their continued engagement is dependent on sustained enthusiasm, generosity and interest; it is essential therefore that the value and achievements of their engagement and contribution are acknowledged and celebrated in order to maximise sustained impact of the HRB research strategy.
