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.
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.
The Patient Advisory Council consists of 12 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.
Members
Sandra Apondo
Karin Arndt
Johannes Förner
Rudolf Hauke
Dr. Dirk Hellrung
Dr. Stefanie Houwaart
Lorena Koch
Thomas Müldner
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.
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.
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.
