Cancer Research Wales at the BNOS Conference 2026
Julia Spagnolello is a research student at Cardiff University's School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. She is being funded by Cancer Research Wales to work on a PhD research project into brain tumours
Here she talks about the opportunity she was given by the charity to attend the British Neuro-Oncology Society's 2026 conference as part of her research
Attending the British Neuro-Oncology Society conference at the University of Birmingham was an enriching experience, and I'm incredibly grateful to Cancer Research Wales for supporting my attendance.
It gave me the chance to attend one of the UK's biggest neuroscience conferences, where researchers, clinicians and students from across the UK and around the world came together to share their latest discoveries in brain research. It was exciting to be surrounded by so many people who are passionate about improving our understanding of the brain and finding better treatments for neurological diseases.
Advancements in glioblastoma research
As a PhD student researching glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of primary brain cancer, the conference was especially relevant to my work.
I really enjoyed hearing from leading scientists and clinicians who are pushing the field forward, particularly through new discovery platforms and emerging clinical trials. I was especially interested in the growing focus on precision medicine and immunotherapy, as these are closely linked to my own research.
Listening to these talks not only helped me understand where the field is heading but also gave me new ideas and inspiration for my own project.
Networking
One of my favourite parts of the conference was meeting other researchers. Everyone I spoke to was incredibly friendly and approachable.
They were all happy to discuss their work, share ideas, and even talk through experimental protocols. I also met some brilliant PhD students from universities across the UK, and it was great spending time with them both socially and professionally.
It was reassuring to realise that, although we're all working on different projects, we share many of the same challenges and motivations.
I also really enjoyed the fact that this opportunity allowed me to travel to a new city. I very much enjoyed walking around the University of Birmingham and the city itself, with all its pretty buildings and canals.
Reflections
Overall, attending the conference has strengthened my enthusiasm for my PhD and reminded me why I chose to pursue research in brain cancer.
I came away with new knowledge, fresh ideas for future experiments, and a greater appreciation of how basic laboratory research can eventually lead to real clinical advances.
I left Birmingham feeling inspired and even more determined to contribute to research that will one day improve the lives of people affected by glioblastoma.