Spotlight Interview - introducing new ECMC team members
The ECMC Programme Office has welcomed two new members to the team over the past few months: Catherine Cowell (Research Manager) and Lauren Griffiths (Early Phase Clinical Trials Business Development Manager). Learn more about them and the work they do as part of the team.
Catherine Cowell
What is your role in the ECMC Programme Office?
As a Research Manager in the ECMC Programme Office, I’ll be working on the planning and delivery of the Quinquennial Review of the Network. I will also be supporting additional activities in the ECMC Programme Office, such as the Future Network Strategy development, as well as working with the industry engagement team to bring new study opportunities to the network.
When did you join the team and can you describe one highlight you have had since joining?
I joined the ECMC Programme Office in December 2020. It could have been challenging to join a new team working remotely, but everyone has been incredibly helpful and friendly. I’ve really valued how collaborative the team is. I’ve already had the opportunity to be involved in several varied and interesting activities to support the Network.
What was your experience before joining the team?
I studied cell signalling and drug resistance in lung cancer for my PhD, then subsequently worked at CRUK for 6 years in Research Funding across various scientific areas. I also have a Master’s in Public Health.
What hobbies do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy running and I’m training to do my first ultra-marathon later this year (fingers crossed). I’ve also particularly enjoyed reading, embroidery and walks of all distances during lockdown!
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 would pick ‘When Harry Met Sally’ as the movie (a classic), ‘Circe’ by Madeline Miller as the book (a feminist re-telling of Greek mythology), and ‘Shake It Out’ by Florence and The Machine as the song (which reminds me of the last concert I went to pre-COVID).
Lauren Griffiths
What is your role in the ECMC Programme Office?
As my final placement on the Cancer Research UK Graduate Scheme, I have joined the team as an Early Phase Clinical Trials Business Development Manager. This role involves supporting on the next phase of development of EC Trial Finder, as well as on the long-term strategy.
When did you join the team and can you describe one highlight you have had since joining?
I joined the team in September 2020, and as well as learning lots about the exciting ongoing Network activity, a couple of key highlights have been the Clinical Trials Europe conference and the warm welcome I received, despite only meeting virtually!
What was your experience before joining the team?
After graduating with a Bioscience degree and completing an internship at Wellcome, I joined the CRUK Graduate Scheme. I have worked in a wide variety of areas, including high value fundraising events and partnerships, retail (developing a product range for people affected by cancer) and brand, marketing and communications for children’s and young people’s cancers.
What hobbies do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Some of my favourite hobbies include cooking and singing. I also love travel, the outdoors (e.g. hiking and cycling), theatre and all things related to treasure hunts and escape rooms.
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?
It’s hard to choose! But probably When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi, Inception or something nostalgic (can I take the whole Harry Potter series?) and Peer Pressure by James Bay or a song from one of my favourite musicals.