“Together, we can make significant advances in cancer medicine – through innovative research, close collaboration, and the active involvement of patients throughout the entire process,” said Prof. Dr. Marianne Pavel, host of the event, Executive Director of NCT WERA, and Head of the Department of Endocrinology at University Hospital Erlangen.

Strengthening cancer care – also in rural regions

“WERA covers a catchment area of around eight million people in Bavaria, with a significant proportion living in rural areas. These patients, too, should have access to the most advanced and effective diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, as well as to the latest clinical trials,” emphasized Prof. Dr. Matthias W. Beckmann, host of the meeting, Director of CCC WERA and Head of the Department of Gynecology at University Hospital Erlangen.

Inspiring the next generation of cancer medicine

With this meeting, CCC WERA and NCT WERA sent a strong signal for collaboration, excellence in cancer research, and forward-looking strategies in patient care. The diverse program focused equally on scientific, clinical, and patient-centered perspectives.

“The exchange between experienced researchers and the next generation of scientific talent is crucial for the success of our networks,” noted Prof. Dr. Hermann Einsele, spokesperson of NCT WERA. “Through the newly established NCT WERA Clinical Trialist Program, we are opening up new career opportunities for emerging researchers to design early clinical trials with high innovative potential and to actively promote knowledge transfer,” he added.

Focus on dialogue-driven research

In addition to presentations highlighting key milestones from working groups, study infrastructure projects, and best-practice examples, one of the program’s highlights was the presentation of the WERA Publication Awards 2025. The winning publications were selected by a jury consisting of members of the WERA Patient and Family Advisory Board — a clear commitment to dialogue-oriented research.

“Defining what makes good research is something we do together — scientists and patient representatives,” said Prof. Dr. Ralf Bargou, spokesperson of CCC WERA. “The personal perspectives of those affected are not only valuable but essential for shaping patient-centered research.”

Conclusion: Working together for better cancer care

The network meeting in Erlangen made one thing clear: pooling scientific expertise, fostering genuine collaboration, and integrating patients into research and care are key elements of a sustainable oncology landscape.
CCC WERA and NCT WERA are setting benchmarks — in Bavaria and beyond.