Welcome to new member of the ECMC Programme Office - May 2022

Earlier this year we welcomed Laura Danielson, Children and Young People’s Research Lead to the ECMC team. Laura takes over from Sheona Scales who is currently on secondment in the CRUK Cancer Grand Challenge team. Find out more about Laura.

 

What is your role in the ECMC Programme Office?

As the Children and Young People’s Research Lead, I am responsible for delivering CRUK’s research strategy aimed at progressing outcomes for children and young people affected by cancer. 

 

When did you join the team and can you describe one highlight you have had since joining?

I joined the team in March on a one-year secondment. A highlight for me since joining will have been attending, in person, the Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group winter meeting. It was so great to re-connect with old colleagues, meet new people, and hear some fascinating scientific talks.

 

What was your experience before joining the team?

I have been at CRUK for almost 6 years working in the Research Information team where I led a team of science communicators who write about the research we fund and the impact we have made. Before this time, I was a cancer researcher for over a decade, most recently working in paediatric drug development.

 

What hobbies do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work, I am mainly chasing after two small children, but when I get the time I do enjoy running and cycling. 

 

If you were only able to read 1 book, watch 1 movie and listen to 1 song whilst stranded on an island, what would they be?

I think I would like to take with me a book I have called Knowledge is Beautiful, which is a collection of history, facts and a variety of data all presented in amazing and beautiful ways. This would keep me entertained for quite some time! For the movie, Encanto is a favourite in my house right now, so being able to watch this on my island would remind me of my family. And for the song, to keep things upbeat, I would have to go with something like Happy by Pharrell Williams.