The establishment of the National Institute for Cancer Research (NICR) was truly a turning point in the Czech Republic’s commitment to advancing cancer research, prevention, and treatment. As the Chair of the International Supervisory and Advisory Board (ISAB), I have the privilege of closely witnessing NICR’s evolution into a hub of scientific excellence, innovation, and collaboration. From an external perspective, the progress it achieved in just two years is remarkable.
The NICR project is closely aligned with the general goals of the EXCELES (LX) programme, which emphasise interdisciplinarity, multidisciplinarity, and international competitiveness in research and development. In 2023, NICR has exceeded many of its ambitious targets, which reflects the consortium’s dedication and synergistic efforts. For instance, NICR researchers produced in 2023 nearly 170 peer-reviewed publications, with over 60% appearing in top-tier Q1 journals. Such exceptional output testifies not only to the quality but also the global relevance of research conducted within the NICR framework.
A key strength of NICR is its ability to integrate diverse scientific disciplines and institutions from across the Czech Republic. This interregional and interdisciplinary collaboration is evident in the research results achieved through cooperative efforts: in 2023, it reached 150% of the target set for that year. Moreover, NICR has made significant progress in fostering innovation through the establishment of 17 transnational grant projects, the initiation of cutting-edge Ph.D. programs, and the creation of three junior research groups whose leaders are the winners of an open international selection process – and two of them are women. These developments highlight NICR’s commitment to inclusivity and capacity building for future generations of cancer researchers.
Infrastructure development has been another cornerstone of NICR’s success. Investments in state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 sequencer and advanced mass spectrometers, improve research capabilities across the consortium. Such advancements ensure that NICR remains at the forefront of technological and scientific innovation, enabling ground-breaking discoveries in cancer research.
NICR’s role extends beyond academia into public engagement and policy influence. The consortium’s collaboration with patient organisations, exemplified by the OncoPacient conference, highlights its dedication to translating research into societal impact. This event, supported in 2023 by high-profile figures, including the First Lady of the Czech Republic, reflects NICR’s commitment to bridging the gap between research and real-world applications.
Internationalisation of NICR is another noteworthy achievement. From hosting the Czech Annual Cancer Research Meeting (with international participants) all the way to establishing strategic partnerships with institutions such as the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at Harvard Medical School, NICR is steadily cementing its position as a global leader in cancer research. Initiatives such as the Summer School on Tumor Microenvironment and Immunity and collaborations within the EU-funded CREATIC project further enhance NICR’s visibility and impact on the global stage.
Looking ahead, NICR is working on its sustainability by focusing on retaining highly skilled workforce and expanding its research capacities. The consortium’s leadership is actively planning for the post-project period, ensuring that NICR will continue to thrive as a national and international authority in cancer research. Efforts to secure national funding, to strengthen collaboration with biotech companies, and to address ethical and societal aspects of cancer research are commendable and vital for NICR’s longevity.
From an external vantage point, NICR embodies the essence of a national research authority – one that is forward-looking, inclusive, and driven by a shared vision of excellence. The dedication and achievements of its scientists, administrators, and collaborators are a testament to what can be accomplished when passion meets purpose. NICR is not only a beacon of hope for cancer patients in the Czech Republic but also a model of what can be achieved through coordinated, multidisciplinary efforts in cancer research.
On behalf of the ISAB, I commend NICR for its extraordinary progress and encourage it to continue its journey towards becoming a global leader in oncology research. The road ahead is undoubtedly challenging but the foundation laid by NICR is robust, and the spirit of innovation and collaboration that drives it promises a brighter future for cancer research and care.
Bergen, Norway, 28 November 2024
Daniela Elena Costea
Chair of the International Supervisory and Advisory Board of NICR