In the sixth episode of the series, Vicky talks to Professor Heather Harrington from the University of Oxford’s Mathematical Institute. They explore how techniques from algebra and topology are being used to identify patterns in cancer data, giving a more nuanced understanding than has previously been possible.   They also look at the creative thinking required of mathematicians, and the importance of collaboration between different fields ..read more

In the fifth episode of the series, Vicky talks to Professor Helen Byrne, Professor of Mathematical Biology at the University of Oxford’s Mathematical Institute, and Senior Group Leader at the Oxford Branch of the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research.  They discuss Professor Byrne’s research which focuses on mathematical modelling and biology, and how modelling can provide predictive tools for growth and response to treatment of solid tumours. Here, they also cover how the fast-moving field of topological data analysis is informing cancer treatments such as radiotherapy and immunotherap ..read more

In the fourth episode of the series, Vicky talks to Professor Hannah Fry – mathematician, science presenter and ‘all-round badass’. Presenter of the 2022 BBC2 documentary Making Sense of Cancer with Hannah Fry, Professor Fry talks to Vicky about the difficulties of using probabilities in using medical statistics and the importance of asking the right questions when it comes to the risks involved with cancer treatment. Here, they discuss how their own experiences have shaped their perspectives, and the tough choices that face those making decisions on cancer care and the different treatment o ..read more

In the second episode of the series, Vicky talks to Professor Sir David Spiegelhalter, Chair of the Winton Centre for Risk and Evidence Communication at the University of Cambridge. A leading statistician, and author, Professor Spiegelhalter discusses his work on the successful Predict tools for breast and prostate cancer, which help patients make informed decisions about their cancer treatment. Vicky and Professor Spiegelhalter explore the role of statisticians in communicating risk to the public, and how patients can be empowered to engage with clinicians in a meaningful way when weighing ..read more

In the first episode of the series, Vicky talks to Philip Maini, Director of the Wolfson Centre for Mathematical Biology and Professor of Mathematics at the University of Oxford.    Here, they discuss how mathematical modelling can help researchers and doctors to improve the quality of life for people receiving cancer treatment. Their conversation covers how mathematical modelling can be used in calculating tumour growth and treatment scenarios. They explore the application of modelling to treatment dosages and clinical trials, as well its importance in surgical approaches to tumou ..read more

Professor Benito Mueller on COP26 (part six)  [Photo (C) Shutterstock ..read more

Professor Benito Mueller on COP26 (part five)  [Photo (C) Shutterstock ..read more

Professor Benito Mueller on COP26 (part four)  [Photo (C) Shutterstock ..read more

Professor Benito Mueller on COP26 (part three)  [Photo (C) Shutterstock ..read more

Professor Benito Mueller on COP26 (part two)  [Photo (C) Shutterstock ..read more