Skin Cancer Research Fund: Supporting Targeted, Innovative Research

The Skin Cancer Research Fund (SCaRF) focuses its resources on advancing the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of skin cancer, with a particular emphasis on malignant melanoma. Since its formation, SCaRF has adopted a “pump-priming” approach - providing initial funding for promising research projects that can lead to larger grants and significant clinical impact.

Recent SCaRF-Funded Research Projects

Desmoplastic Melanoma Management Study
In 2024, SCaRF funded an international, multi-centre retrospective cohort study led by Pennylouise Hever. This research addresses desmoplastic melanoma (DM), a rare and unique form of cutaneous melanoma. The study is evaluating:
- The incidence of DM in the UK, USA, and Australia
- Sentinel lymph node positivity rates
- Recurrence rates following standard surgical removal
- The effectiveness of adjuvant therapies, such as post-operative radiotherapy and systemic treatments.
  The secondary aim is to develop best practice guidelines for managing DM, filling a gap in current melanoma guidelines.
Point-of-Care Diagnostic Sensor for Skin Cancer
Dr Richard Paul’s research group at Bournemouth University received SCaRF funding to develop a rapid, user-friendly sensor for skin cancer detection. This device, designed for use in primary care settings, detects volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by skin cancer lesions. Early clinical studies have demonstrated the feasibility of identifying specific VOCs associated with skin cancer. The current project aims to validate these findings in a larger patient group and further develop the sensor for real-world use, potentially enabling earlier diagnosis and improved patient outcomes.
Environmental Risk Factors for Melanoma Relapse
SCaRF has also part-funded research into environmental risk factors for melanoma relapse, supporting studies that contribute to understanding how lifestyle and environmental exposures may influence melanoma recurrence.

SCaRF’s Broader Impact

SCaRF’s funding model is designed to generate early, ground-breaking data that can attract further investment from larger research bodies, accelerating the translation of laboratory discoveries into improved patient care.
The charity’s commitment extends to raising awareness of skin cancer through educational programmes and community engagement.

Looking Ahead

SCaRF remains committed to supporting innovative research and educational initiatives that can lead to earlier detection, better management, and improved outcomes for people affected by skin cancer. The charity continues to seek and fund projects that promise tangible benefits for patients in the near future.

All research and achievements described above are directly supported or part-funded by SCaRF.