 After graduating from University College London with a BSc in Genetics, Sara worked in lab research at the MRC's National Institute for Medical Research until 1995 studying the molecular biology of cell adhesion molecules. Sara joined Cancer Research UK as a science writer in 2000, writing and speaking to the media about the charity’s research and its impact on cancer. She became increasingly involved in information about cancer prevention and early detection and developed a small ‘health information’ team to cope with increasing demand in this area.
In May 2007, the creation of a new Directorate of ‘Information and Public Engagement’ placed ‘Health Information’ in a more central role delivering primary purpose activity for a cancer organisation with ambitious goals for 2020. This new Department has a vital role in driving our health strategy to empower, encourage and enable individuals to make informed choices to reduce their risk of cancer and improve chances of early detection. As Director of Health Information Sara has overall responsibility for the charity’s cancer awareness initiatives, including the Department of Health funded ‘SunSmart’ skin cancer prevention campaign and targeted work with high-risk groups in Tower Hamlets and Gateshead encouraging early presentation of oral cancer. The team is increasingly using social marketing principles and techniques to move from awareness raising to the holy grail of behaviour change.
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