UCLH and UCL go 'red for research'

UCL lit up its iconic Portico building in red to show its support for the campaign, founded in 2020 by the NHS Research and Development Forum.

And the BT Tower in central London broadcast a #Red4Research message.

Staff at UCLH and UCL celebrated by wearing red for the campaign, which recognises the contribution of research participants, investigators, and all the support and delivery teams without whom research just could not be done.

UCL and UCLH work closely together as teaching and research partners, and together we undertake world-leading research and translate cutting-edge science into real-world benefits for patients and the NHS. From early detection and new therapies to digital innovation and inclusive research, we are transforming the way care is delivered. 

Our recent work together has included:

• groundbreaking research identifying who could benefit from cancer prevention drugs
• breakthrough applications for CART-T therapies, which reset the body’s immune system by altering its immune cells, for conditions including lupus
• a new life-extending drug for patients with ovarian cancer, now available across NHS England
• a new treatment for high blood pressure can provide continuous, round-the-clock blood pressure control for people whose condition is hard to treat, now approved in the US
• research to identify quick and accurate blood tests to diagnose dementia.

Dr Nick McNally said: “We’re proud to be part of the Red4Research campaign. Research relies on so many people to play a role, from research teams, study participants, trial co-ordinators, and more – all working together to deliver research that changes lives. We are incredibly proud of the research we do at UCLH and UCL, working collaboratively across the research ecosystem, to make an impact an impact here in London, across the country, and indeed around the world.”

Prof Karl Peggs, UCLH Director of Research and Director of the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at UCLH, said: “Every week I see first-hand the impact of research in saving and improving lives, and the improvements in care we see are thanks to everyone involved in research, from our patients and research teams, as well as the industry partners and all other organisations we work with to deliver research. This day is an excellent chance to celebrate the contribution of everyone involved.”

Professor Geraint Rees, Vice Principal Research, Innovation and Global Engagement said: “The UK has a wealth of outstanding life and medical science expertise, but it is this coming together of innovation, knowledge and the staff and patients of the NHS that make us such a great place to do research. Thank you all for connecting science to the health outcomes we want, here in the UK and around the world.”

Professor Ibrahim Abubakar, Vice Provost Health said: "Red4Research is chance to recognise what is possible when expertise, innovation and collaboration come together to drive change and celebrate the people behind these partnerships. It is their collective effort, resilience and commitment to improving care that ensures research is embedded within the NHS and delivers real benefit every day.”