Patient Advisory Council

The Patient Advisory Council for Cancer Research was established in 2018 to integrate the perspectives of those with a lived experience of cancer into the DKFZ research strategy. Its members are cancer survivors or have experience as relatives of patients. The Council contributes to enhancing the relevance and societal acceptance of research at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and within its translational partnerships.

A diverse group of twelve people stands on a staircase, smiling at the camera. They are dressed in various professional attire, ranging from casual to formal. The setting appears to be an office or conference space, with windows and artwork visible in the background.

Strong ­voice ­and ­driving ­force ­for ­cancer ­research

The Patient Advisory Council for Cancer Research at DKFZ was established to integrate the perspectives of individuals with a lived experience of cancer into the research strategy of the DKFZ and to strengthen patient-centered approaches in cancer research. The Council advises the Management Board of DKFZ from a patient perspective and addresses current topics in cancer research, research framework conditions in Germany, research priorities, and selected DKFZ research projects during its meetings.

Our Mission and Values

The Patient Advisory Council for Cancer Research serves as a strong link between patients, science, and society. Through our work, we bring the perspectives of individuals with a lived experience of cancer into cancer research and promote patient-centered approaches across all areas of research. Transparency, trust, and open dialogue are the core values guiding our efforts.

Learn more about our goals and principles in our mission statement.

Links & Downloads

Member­ship ­and ­Structure

Die Mitglieder des Patientenbeirat Krebsforschung stehen gemeinsam mit dem DKFZ Vorstand und der Koordinatorin in einer Gruppe zusammen am Geländer einer Treppe und schauen in die Kamera.

The Patient Advisory Council consists of 13 members who either have a lived experience of cancer or have experience as relatives of those affected. While members bring their personal perspectives, they collectively represent all cancer patient groups. The Council is led by the Speaker and typically meets twice a year. Each meeting is accompanied by a “Patient Academy,” where members are informed about and trained on current developments in cancer research. Additionally, members have the opportunity to participate in DKFZ events and actively contribute to its activities.

Active Members
Dr. Sandra Apondo
Karin Arndt
Johannes Förner
Rudolf Hauke
Dr. Dirk Hellrung
Lorena Koch
Gereon Mänzel
Lena Schäfer
Christoph Schmitt
Bastian Schwarz
Bärbel Söhlke
Sören Thorey

Position papers

The Council develops position statements and recommendations addressed to the Management Board of DKFZ, which strategically pursues these matters and introduces them into relevant bodies, ministries, or other authorities.

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Biologisches und soziales Geschlecht in der Krebsforschung
09.12.2025 | Download ( PDF , 147.33 KB )
Right to be Forgotten
01.09.2026 | Download ( PDF , 116.30 KB )

Prevention and Quality of Life

HPV school vaccination programs to increase the vaccination rate
26.09.2024 | Download ( PDF , 153.81 KB )
Cancer Survivorship Research
22.09.2023 | Download ( PDF , 125.04 KB )
The importance of prevention in cancer research
09.10.2019 | Download ( PDF , 97.18 KB )

Data use, data protection and regulation

Right to data use and data protection in cancer research
06.02.2023 | Download ( PDF , 175.35 KB )
Regulatory aspects of clinical trials in pediatric oncology
13.10.2021 | Download ( PDF , 100.28 KB )
Data protection in medical research
06.11.2020 | Download ( PDF , 127.48 KB )
Alternative Text: Two male researchers stand side by side, smiling. One wears a white lab coat, while the other is in business attire, adjusting his tie. Both are positioned against abstract colored circles and a network of connecting lines, symbolizing collaboration in cancer research. The text "DZG" is centered below them.

How ­data can ­save ­lives­

A conversation between Prof. Dr. Martin Hrabě de Angelis, Director of the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZG), and Rudolf Hauke, Spokesperson of the Cancer Research Patient Advisory Council. This interview sheds light on why health data is essential for progress in cancer research, the challenges posed by data protection and how better use of data can benefit both research and patients.
To the Interview (German only)

From basic science to implementation

Transfer of research results
16.03.2023 | Download ( PDF , 179.44 KB )
Importance of of studies involving animals in cancer research
16.05.2019 | Download ( PDF , 95.37 KB )
Biological and Social Gender in Cancer Research
09.12.2025 | Download ( PDF , 147.33 KB )

Pandemic and crisis management

Strategies in future pandemics
08.12.2022 | Download ( PDF , 175.24 KB )
Open letter on solidarity through COVID-19 vaccination
16.11.2020 | Download ( PDF , 89.42 KB )
DKFZ activities during the COVID-19 pandemic
06.04.2020 | Download ( PDF , 96.95 KB )

News

Get in touch

For any inquiries or to get involved, please use our contact form.

  • Employee image

    Dr. Delia Braun

    Koordination Patientenbeteiligung am DKFZ

Patient involvement in cancer research

Mehr erfahren
Illustration of diverse individuals in lab coats and casual attire, standing in a circle and holding hands. The background features scientific symbols and imagery related to cancer research. Text reads, "Patientenbeteiligung in der Krebsforschung – Was geht? Und wie geht das?" (Patient involvement in cancer research – What's possible? And how does it work?).
At DKFZ, patient involvement plays a vital role in shaping the research strategy. The Patient Advisory Council, the NCT Patient Research Council, and the platform “fragdiepatienten.de” provide opportunities for patients to share their experiences and perspectives across multiple levels. This wide-ranging participation ensures research remains relevant, strengthens trust in science, and fosters a collaborative approach to cancer research based on mutual respect.
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