Glioma stem cells with bright colouration


The Brain Tumour Research Centre (BTRC) focuses on low-grade tumours and investigates new mechanisms underlying brain tumourigenesis, including tumour initiation. 
We also want to understand what distinguishes low- from high-grade tumours. Based on this work, we have validated new drug targets and biomarkers for low grade tumours. 
We work truly from bedside to bench and back. We have a large biobank of stratified tumour samples and are using a variety of complementary tumour models. The BTRC encompasses research groups working closely together and complementing each other with both shared approaches and shared in vitro and in vivo models.

The BTRC is a community of researchers dedicated to finding new ways to treat brain tumours. It brings together researchers and clinicians, from undergraduates to group leaders, with a common aim to understand the pathology of these tumours and how we can find the treatments of the future.

Our work involves collaborating with research groups in the UK around the world, as well as with pharmaceutical companies, and building our Brain Tumour Biobank to aid our research and the work of others. Our aim is to take the work we do and make a real difference to patients with brain tumours, now and in the future.

David ParkinsonProfessor David Parkinson
Professor of Neuroscience and Director of BTRC

Research team

 
 
 

In the news

Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence at the University of Plymouth awarded funding so it can continue work until 2030
Scientists receive £2.8m funding boost to advance research into brain tumours

The renewed investment will accelerate progress towards clinical trials for low-grade brain tumours

3 December 2025
 
 
 
 
 
 

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