The six universities in augsburg, erlangen, munich (LMU and TUM), regensburg and wurzburg and the associated university hospitals joined forces yesterday in erlangen to form the bavarian center for cancer research (BZKF). The state of bavaria is setting new standards in the fight against cancer, according to a statement from the ministry of science.
Ceremony with minister president
At a ceremony with minister president markus soder (CSU), science minister bernd sibler (CSH) signed the cooperation agreement together with representatives of the universities.
This new facility will combine the strengths of all partners to achieve even faster and more efficient research results and to further improve prevention, diagnosis and treatment for patients. "With the new center, we are ushering in a new era for the treatment of cancer patients. We are doing real pioneering work in the fight against cancer", stressed sibler.
Clinical studies on the move
All cancer patients in bavaria will be able to participate in early clinical studies and benefit from new treatment options through the center – regardless of which university hospital is closest to them: in coordination with each other, the individual sites will continue to build up specialized and internationally competitive research infrastructures on different issues in cancer treatment, which will be made accessible to all partners.
Strength lies in cooperation
In this way, the expertise available at each site can be used by all sites via the network and multiple developments can be avoided. Common, uniform basic structures in accordance with international standards, especially in the IT area, enable research groups at the individual sites to network and work across sites and disciplines, according to the announcement.
Burger phone to be set up
In addition, a burger phone will be set up to provide patients with free, scientifically sound and reliable information.
Individual questions and problems can thus be referred directly to the individual specialized center locations.
Business office in erlangen
The BZKF is coordinated by an office that is currently being set up at the university hospital in erlangen. Half a million euros is available for this in the current double budget. The other funds required are to be spent in stages over several years.