GSK Partners with Oxford University in Groundbreaking Cancer Immuno-Prevention Initiative

Deal News | Jan 27, 2025 | GSK PLC

GSK plc and the University of Oxford have announced their collaboration on a new cancer research initiative called the GSK-Oxford Cancer Immuno-Prevention Programme. This partnership aims to leverage GSK's vaccination and immune system expertise with Oxford's research capabilities to explore cancer prevention strategies through vaccines. GSK will commit up to £50 million over the next three years to conduct research focused on precancer biology, aiming to generate critical insights on cancer development that could inform vaccine creation. Both entities are building upon an existing collaboration, including the GSK-Oxford Institute of Molecular and Computational Medicine, which has advanced research in neurodegeneration through innovative technologies like functional genomics and machine learning. The initiative is supported by UK Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle, emphasizing the potential health and economic benefits this collaboration can offer.

Sectors

Biopharmaceutical
Higher Education and Research

Geography

United Kingdom – GSK and the University of Oxford, both headquartered in the UK, are the primary participants in this collaboration, highlighting significant investment and research in the UK's biopharma sector.

Industry

Biopharmaceutical – The collaboration focuses heavily on research and development within the biopharmaceutical sector, particularly in developing novel cancer vaccines and therapies.
Higher Education and Research – University of Oxford, a leading academic institution, plays a crucial role in driving the research aspect of this collaboration, reflecting the vital contribution of universities in scientific advancements.

Financials

£50 million – Investment from GSK into the Cancer Immuno-Prevention Programme over a minimum of three years.

Participants

Name	Role	Type	Description
GSK plc	Bidding Company	Company	A global biopharma company spearheading the initiative alongside Oxford University with a substantial financial commitment.
University of Oxford	Research Partner	Company	A leading academic and research institution partnering with GSK to advance cancer vaccine research and development.
Tony Wood	Chief Scientific Officer, GSK	Person	Leading the scientific and strategic vision for GSK's involvement in the research initiative.
Professor Irene Tracey	Vice-Chancellor, University of Oxford	Person	Oversees Oxford's participation in the collaborative cancer research programme.
Peter Kyle	Science and Technology Secretary, UK Government	Government	Supportive of the collaboration, highlighting its potential impact on public health and the economy.