Clatterbridge Consultant Clinical Oncologist Dr Shaveta Mehta has been appointed as Associate Research Lead for Cancer by the Clinical Research Network with overall responsibility for Cheshire and Merseyside.
Dr Mehta, who joined The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in July 2019, specialises in central nervous system cancers and breast cancers. She has an extensive interest in research and is committed to improving outcomes in cancer patients, particularly in brain and breast cancers. She is principal investigator for many national and international clinical trials in these fields.
Dr Mehta said: "I am delighted to be appointed as Cancer Associate Speciality Lead for Cheshire and Merseyside. I am passionate about research and strongly believe that co-ordinated research is the only way forward to improve patient outcomes and the experience of cancer patients and their families.
“My vision is that by promoting the culture of research, supporting teams, cross-cutting collaborations within the NHS and other key organisations across the region, we should improve the survival and experience of our cancer patients.
“I look forward to working with the Clinical Research Network North West Coast, for effective delivery of all NIHR research across the region."
Dr Sheena Khanduri, Medical Director of The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are delighted that Dr Shaveta Mehta has been appointed to this key role in leading and coordinating cancer research across Cheshire and Merseyside.
“The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre is at the forefront of cancer research in many areas, including the exciting field of immunotherapy, and Dr Mehta is very well-placed to share our best practice with others locally.
“We are looking forward to deeper collaboration and creating more partnerships with other research centres in Cheshire and Merseyside, with the support of Dr Mehta, which can only improve outcomes for our patients.”
Professor Alison Birtle, Consultant Oncologist and Honorary Clinical Professor at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Red Community Clinical Research Lead for the Network added: “I am absolutely delighted that Shaveta is joining the senior cancer research management team.
“Over the years I have worked with her, it is clear that she is absolutely passionate about access to well-designed research studies and I am tremendously excited that we will be working more closely.”