Data Management and Sharing

Lead: GLIOMATCH

The purpose of this WG is to harmonise data standards, foster data exchange, data validation, and potentially division of labour to achieve economy of scale. Of particular interest will be to discuss the implementation of the future UNCAN.eu research and data platform. This WG will work on:

• Developing a common chapter in the Data Management Plan
• Exchanging best practices in the field of data management

Communication and Dissemination

Lead: MULTIR

The purpose of this WG is to develop a joint communication and dissemination strategy targeted to relevant stakeholders. This WG will work on:

• External Communication: Each project’s website will feature a dedicated EU Cancer Mission area to share information and materials produced by the cluster.
• Shared Strategies: projects will align Communication and Dissemination strategies to create a common stakeholder map, ensuring targeted communications, and will share updates, press releases, and social media posts regularly.
• Engagement Tools: A common cluster brochure, event calendar, and invitations to cross-cluster events will enhance outreach, with patient associations helping to reach relevant audiences.

Research and Innovation

Lead: SPACETIME

This WG focuses on reducing overlaps and harmonising research methods to enhance science and policy outcomes through collaboration on capacity building. Key areas include:

• Defining a common scientific work plan.
• Exploring collaboration in clinical trials (e.g., patient data, protocols).
• Developing joint publications or reviews summarising cluster results.
• Sharing templates for MTAs and GDPR-compliant data sharing.
• Harmonising research methods and liaising with national data hubs within UNCAN.

Addressing Inequalities

Lead: ARTURO / GLIOMATCH

This WG focuses on reducing inequalities in care, improving access, and addressing challenges in integrating project outcomes into national health systems. Key activities include:

• Develop the “Addressing Inequalities Recommendations” document.
• Involve patients and representatives in co-designing policies through events (e.g., webinars, in-person).
• Define methods to enhance marginalised populations’ participation in clinical studies.
• Ensure regional genetic diversity is considered to improve understanding of tumour-host interactions.
• Identify technologies and treatments to increase accessibility for patients across the EU.
• Share communication activities and events among projects, fostering collaboration.

Citizen Engagement

Lead: HIT-GLIO

This WG facilitates exchanges with citizens, including patients, to engage them and address their perspectives. Key activities include:

• Citizen Engagement Guidelines: Develop common guidelines and best practices for all U-THI-Clust projects.
• Collaborative Communication: Share information and invite participation in communication activities and events across the cluster.
• Planned Initiatives: Organise events and public talks (e.g. during Brain Awareness Week 2025).
• Awareness Campaigns: Explore joint campaigns to advocate for increased research and clinical care for rare diseases, sharing lessons learned from local initiatives.

Annual Meetings and Events 

Lead: THRIVE (year 1), HIT-GLIO (year 2)

The cluster projects will hold annual meetings to discuss shared challenges, identify synergies, and exchange best practices across the cluster’s strands. Key activities include:

• Organisation of annual meetings, including reports and policy briefs.
• Coordination of joint events, training opportunities, and awareness campaigns with other clusters and local initiatives to maximise impact.
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