Congratulations to Karen, principal group leader and former chief scientist at Cancer Research UK, who has been recognised by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) for her discoveries in tumour suppressor biology and cancer metabolism.

The AACR-G.H.A. Clowes Award for Outstanding Basic Cancer Research

The Clowes Award is the oldest award by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) and intends to recognise individuals who have made outstanding recent accomplishments in basic cancer research. The prestigious award was established in 1961 to honour Dr. G.H.A. Clowes, a founding member of the AACR.

Karen’s research

Karen is principal group leader of the Tumour and host metabolism lab at the Crick. She and her team study the cross talk between tumour and normal cells in the cancer microenvironment. 

Karen's award recognises her discoveries in tumour suppressor biology and cancer metabolism, which have contributed to the understanding of metabolic adaptations that sustain cancer growth and identifying novel therapeutic vulnerabilities. Karen's research elucidated the regulation of p53 by MDM2, defined key metabolic dependencies in cancer cells, and revealed the impact of dietary interventions on tumour progression. Her insights into reactive oxygen species in tumour development and metastasis have informed therapeutic strategies, while her scientific leadership and translational impact have and continue to advance cancer biology.

On being selected for the award, Karen said:

I’m delighted to receive this award, which is also a reflection of the talented postdocs and students that I have had the honour of working with over the years.

Karen will receive her award and present a lecture during the AACR Annual Meeting 2025 in Chicago at the end of the month.