Dr Gillian Smith

I first became involved with the Ninewells Cancer Campaign when it was established in 1991, when I was a PhD student in Professor Roland Wolf’s research team based within the University of Edinburgh – the first Ninewells Cancer Campaign appeal supported our move to Dundee and the creation of the hugely successful Biomedical Research Centre within the University of Dundee School of Medicine. In those early days, led by the inspirational Jacqui Wood, we took part in every possible type of fundraising event, meeting cancer patients, their families and friends, and incredible supporters throughout Dundee and Tayside.

I’m now proud to be an academic staff member in the School of Medicine, based in the Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, where I run a translational research programme focussing on ways to combat drug resistance in ovarian cancer – I also co-ordinate cancer-themed teaching for the University, where it is a privilege to introduce the next generation of science and medical students to cancer research. Supervising PhD students is a big part of my job, and it will be a huge pleasure to welcome the first cohort of Fraser Fellowship PhD students to the cancer centre later this year.

My involvement with the Ninewells Cancer Campaign has continued since the early days in Edinburgh – we look forward to welcoming you to the Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre to showcase the incredible work made possible with Ninewells Cancer Campaign support.