The collaboration between the University and Paxman has been shortlisted for the ‘Partnership with Academia’ award for the long-standing collaboration between Associate Professor Nik Georgopoulos and the company to advance the effectiveness of scalp cooling during chemotherapy treatment.
Building on his expertise in epithelial cell biology, his research has enabled the generation of biological evidence which supports the ability of scalp cooling to protect from chemotherapy induced hair loss.
As more and more patients are being treated with chemotherapy, increasing numbers are suffering from severe side effects. Over the years, cancer treatment has evolved from being singularly focussed on curing cancer, to acknowledging that the side effects of treatment, both psychological and physical, can be equally traumatic.
While scalp cooling is highly effective for most patients in enabling them to keep their hair, it does not work for every individual. The partnership has developed novel approaches for the advancement of the effectiveness of scalp cooling. More recently, the partnership has been supporting research that aims to inform the design of limb cooling devices currently under development.
Dr Nik Georgopoulos, Associate Professor in Cell Biology in the University’s School of Biosciences and Chemistry, said: “The nomination is recognition of an amazing collaboration between my research group and Paxman Scalp Cooling. We feel privileged that our research has biologically informed Paxman’s technologies and supported our industry partner in becoming the world’s leader in cryotherapy medical devices.
“Our aim is to help Paxman achieve their mission, which is for their devices to become the standard-of-care for all cancer patients to minimise or prevent the severe side-effects of cancer chemotherapy. This would transform patient wellbeing and quality-of-life and is aligned with our university’s mission to transform lives.”
The Medilink HealthCare Business Awards celebrates outstanding innovations and successes in medical technology, recognising the achievements of sector companies in the North.
This showcase highlights the North’s exceptional capabilities, innovation, and expertise in the life sciences industry.
The 2025 awards evening will be held on Thursday 8 May at the Lowry Hotel in Manchester.
