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Oncology & Cancer Clinical Trials

Cancer remains one of the most active areas of clinical research in the UK, with thousands of trials recruiting at any given time. From breakthrough immunotherapies to precision-targeted treatments, the pace of innovation has never been faster.

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Types of Cancer Clinical Trials

Cancer trials span every phase of research. Phase I trials test new treatments for safety in small groups. Phase II trials assess effectiveness in specific cancer types. Phase III trials compare new treatments against current standards of care in large patient populations. The NHS and private cancer centres across the UK actively participate in all phases, often in collaboration with international research networks.

Breakthrough Treatment Areas

Several revolutionary treatment approaches are currently being tested in UK cancer trials. Immunotherapy harnesses the immune system to fight cancer and has transformed outcomes in melanoma, lung cancer, and lymphoma. CAR-T cell therapy engineers patients' own immune cells to target blood cancers. PARP inhibitors exploit DNA repair weaknesses in cancers like ovarian and breast. Antibody-drug conjugates deliver chemotherapy directly to cancer cells, sparing healthy tissue.

Who Can Join a Cancer Trial?

Eligibility varies by trial, but most cancer trials look for patients with a confirmed diagnosis at a specific stage. Some require patients who have not yet started treatment; others focus on relapsed or treatment-resistant cancers. Your oncologist or clinical nurse specialist can help identify suitable trials. You can also search by cancer type using the links below.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find cancer clinical trials near me in the UK?
Use the condition pages linked above to search by cancer type, or visit the NHS Be Part of Research website. Your oncologist can also refer you to trials at your local cancer centre or through the National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) network.
Are cancer clinical trials free on the NHS?
Yes. Clinical trials on the NHS are free. The trial sponsor covers the cost of the experimental treatment, and the NHS continues to provide your standard care. You will not be charged for participating.
Can I join a cancer trial if I am already having treatment?
Many trials accept patients currently on or who have completed prior treatments. Some specifically target patients whose cancer has progressed after standard therapy. Your oncologist can advise which trials match your treatment history.
What are the newest types of cancer trials in the UK?
Exciting areas include basket trials (testing one drug across multiple cancer types based on genetic markers), umbrella trials (testing multiple drugs for one cancer type), and platform trials like FiLC and FOCUS4 that adapt as results come in. The UK is a world leader in these innovative trial designs.

Find Your Clinical Trial

Search thousands of actively recruiting trials across the UK — free, instant, no registration.

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