Dr Xiaomeng Zhang has secured nearly £100,000 to tackle one of cancer’s biggest mysteries — how to tell which tiny lumps spotted on scans are ticking time bombs, and which are completely harmless.

Submitted by Cecilia Chan on Mon, 19/01/2026 - 13:50

A University of Cambridge researcher will use a £99,965 grant from Cancer Research UK to help doctors distinguish which tiny lumps spotted on scans are tumours and which are harmless.

Research associate Dr Xiaomeng Zhang will investigate the genetic clues hidden in early or benign growths in a study that could transform how doctors assess cancer risk. By analysing the vast genetic datasets, she hopes to build the tools that will predict which patients needs treatment and which can safely avoid it, particularly in relation to breast and lung conditions.

Dr Xiaomeng Zhang has secured nearly £100,000 to tackle one of cancer’s biggest mysteries — how to tell which tiny lumps spotted on scans are ticking time bombs, and which are completely harmless.

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