Dr Lennard Lee, Associate Professor at the Centre for Immuno-Oncology in NDM, was recently awarded the Leadership in Cancer Vaccine Policy and Advocacy Award at the UK Oncology Forum Cancer Vaccines Awards Ceremony held in Liverpool.
This accolade was the result of a national vote, following nominations from across the UK and a highly competitive shortlist. Over 100 oncologists and researchers were considered, with ten making the final cut. The awards celebrated five categories, recognising trailblazers in clinical trials, research, innovation, early career impact and policy leadership.
Dr Ricky Frazer, who presented the awards, said: ‘It is a proud moment for Oxford and the wider research community. Lennard’s contribution in transforming the UK cancer vaccine landscape has been instrumental. His leadership helped galvanise efforts nationally, shaping a vision where cancer vaccines are no longer a distant hope but an urgent reality.’
Dr Lee, who treats prostate cancer patients in the NHS, was a central figure in shaping the UK Cancer Vaccine Advance, a bold initiative launched in 2022 to pivot the UK’s pandemic-era infrastructure into cancer research. In just three years, the UK has grown from conducting few cancer vaccine trials to becoming one of the top global recruiters, with trials completing ahead of schedule and patients accessing next-generation therapies.
At Oxford, Dr Lee leads an interdisciplinary research team pioneering the next generation of cancer vaccine design. The group uses advanced machine learning and genomic data to improve neoantigen prediction—a critical step in developing effective personalised and shared cancer vaccines.
Oxford’s Centre for Immuno-Oncology, where Lennard is based, combines cutting-edge immunology with translational research, linking university researchers, NHS clinicians, and industrial partners.
Dr Lee said: ‘I’m honoured to be a cancer doctor and part of Oxford’s pioneering cancer vaccine research ambitions. My team have made great progress in designing next-generation vaccines for cancers like prostate and glioblastoma. I’m grateful to the Nuffield Department of Medicine for the vision, infrastructure and support that make this work possible.’
Sharon Poole, UK Oncology Forum director, said: ‘It was a privilege to bring together the UK’s leading cancer trialists to honour the bravery, excellence and humanity behind their work. Dr Lennard Lee show what’s possible when science and purpose align.’
This award underscores Oxford’s leadership in global cancer innovation, and the University’s mission to combine rigorous research with real-world impact.