Global Collaboration in Action: Manchester at the STARS21 Summit
By Adesewa Adebisi, PhD Cancer Sciences student and Science Communications Ambassador
In May 2025, a group of early-career researchers from the Manchester Cancer Research Centre and The Christie NHS Foundation Trust travelled to Toronto, Canada, for the final gathering of the STARS21 programme – an inspiring international initiative shaping the future of radiation oncology.
What Is STARS21?
STARS21 (Strategic Training in Transdisciplinary Radiation Science for the 21st Century) is a global programme led by the Department of Radiation Oncology at The University of Toronto. It brings together early-career researchers from Canada, the UK, and Germany to foster interdisciplinary research, leadership, and collaboration in radiation science.
The programme exists to promote interdisciplinary learning, build global networks, and support the next generation of leaders in radiation science.
STARS21 scholars outside of Princess Margaret Cancer Centre.
Scholars at the STARS21 registration desk inside The University of Toronto.
The research day in Toronto stood out as a highlight of the STARS21 programme. It was interesting to learn about the diverse research projects being undertaken by fellow scholars, enriching our collective understanding of interdisciplinary radiation oncology research.
Dr Sarah Bowen Jones
A Year of Virtual Learning and Global Exchange
Since October 2024, the 2024–25 cohort has engaged in virtual seminars covering a wide spectrum of topics – ranging from radiation biology and physics to clinical oncology and data science. These sessions weren’t just about academic knowledge; they were designed to encourage rich discussion, international collaboration, and professional growth.
The final in-person event, held on 12th – 14th May 2025 at The University of Toronto, brought the full cohort together for the first time. Over three days, scholars took part in a packed programme of research presentations, mentoring sessions, and community building.
Key Highlights
The highlight of the trip was the STARS21 Research Day, which brought together the full cohort to present posters and oral talks covering a wide range of topics in radiation science and oncology
Manchester researchers made a significant impact at the summit, presenting work that spanned basic science, translational research, and clinical application:
- Dr Sarah Bowen Jones presented her work on toxicity and survival outcomes following lung radiotherapy in patients with interstitial lung abnormalities and interstitial lung disease. Her outstanding contribution was recognised with the STARS21 Scholar Award for Academic Excellence in Research.
- Adesewa Adebisi explored how radiotherapy affects the sensitivity of cancer cells to pore-forming proteins – cutting-edge research at the interface of immunology and oncology.
- Irene Rebollido Pedrido shared a promising approach to early detection and radiotherapy monitoring of gliomas using liquid biopsy-based mass spectrometry metabolomics.
- Dr Love Goyal investigated cardiac substructure exposure in paediatric proton therapy, with a focus on the feasibility of automated contouring—a step towards more precise, patient-friendly treatments.
- Dr Rekaya Shabbir discussed dose accumulation, gastrointestinal toxicity, and clinical outcomes in MR-guided SABR for pancreatic cancer.
Alongside presentations, the scholars met with faculty and the STARS21 Scientific Advisory Board to reflect on their journey:
STARS21 was a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded early career researchers and reflect on how to build a meaningful academic career. The sessions on research leadership and collaboration were especially inspiring. – Dr Love Goyal
The STARS21 Research Day in Toronto was a pivotal moment in the programme. Engaging with experts such as radiation ecologists, medical physicists, and biologists broadened our perspectives on complex research challenges. It showcased how diverse scientific backgrounds can converge to drive innovation in radiation oncology. – Dr Rekaya Shabbir
The STARS21 program was an incredibly valuable experience during my PhD. It provided me with essential knowledge in radiation medicine that I will definitely apply throughout my project. The networking opportunities were exceptional, and the community was incredibly welcoming during our time in Toronto. Overall, it was an enriching and inspiring experience that I’m so grateful to have been part of.
Irene Rebollido Pedrido
Irene Rebollido Pedrido presenting her research to STARS21 attendees.
A group photo of the STARS21 delegates.
Looking Ahead
The programme closed with a visit to the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, one of the world’s leading cancer centres. Scholars observed radiotherapy planning in action, explored cutting-edge technologies, and gained first-hand insight into the power of multidisciplinary, patient-centred cancer care.
The STARS21 programme is more than a training initiative – it’s a launch pad for international collaboration, scientific innovation, and leadership in radiation oncology. For the Manchester researchers who took part, the experience has left a lasting impact, both professionally and personally.
Congratulations to all the scholars, and especially to the Manchester team, for your contributions, insights, and success on the international stage.
