Driving Innovation with Focus on Staff-Led MedTech, IP Protection, and Genomics Development

23 Sep 2024, 10:07 a.m.

The Research, Innovation, and Genomics department is hosting an Awareness Week at the end of September to showcase the Trust's pivotal role in research and innovation, which is essential for advancing healthcare practices and enhancing patient outcomes.

Currently, 180 clinical trials are underway, focusing on everything from new surgical devices and drugs to improving understanding of mental health issues. These studies depend on patient participation, and thousands of volunteers contribute each year.

One such project, the BRAID study, focuses on enhancing breast cancer detection for women with dense breast tissue by comparing mammograms with other imaging methods. Despite COVID-19 reducing recruitment, the study surpassed its target with 1,361 participants.

If it wasn't for this study, I would not have known I had advanced breast cancer until it was too late to save my life. I will always be grateful!

Patient participant

This type of work brings us closer to delivering evidence-based care for our patients, ensuring access to cutting-edge treatments, and fostering innovation amongst staff.

It also supports the co-development of international MedTech innovations, intellectual property protection, commercialisation, and the advancement of genomics services.

Starting on Monday 30th September, we will feature workshops across both sites and a stand in the atrium where the public and staff can learn more about our innovation initiatives.

Workshops will include demonstrations of digital technologies and presentations by key speakers, such as

  • Noel Akers, our Trust's patent attorney, leading sessions on managing, protecting, and exploiting intellectual property.
  • James Bristol, Head of Genomics, will conduct genomics workshops focusing on family history taking and broader genomics topics.
Take a look below at our drop-in sessions for both Gloucestershire Royal and Cheltenham General Hospitals.
Date GRH Library, Redwood Education Centre CGH Library, Alex House
1st
Oct
12:30-13:30
James Bristol
(Head of Genomics GHNHSFT) Drop-In Genomics Questions & Answers
14:30-15:30
Alex Giles
(Head of Innovation, GHNHSFT) Drop-In MedTech/Health Innovation Lab
2nd
Oct
12:00-13:00 
Noel Akers
(Patent Attorney) Intellectual Property Drop-In Session
12:30-13:30
James Bristol
(Head of Genomics GHNHSFT)
Drop-In Genomics Questions & Answers
3rd
Oct
12:00-13:00
Alex Giles
(Head of Innovation GHNHSFT) MedTech/Health Innovation Lab
12:30-13:30
Noel Akers
(Patent Attorney) Intellectual Property Drop-In Session

Let us know if you're thinking of attending, register your interest here