NHS Cytogenetics has been well supported by NHS Tayside Group Directorate of Surgery and Oncology and translational cancer research and cutting edge cancer diagnostic services are recognised as a particular Tayside strength. To this end Cytogenetics has maintained a longstanding interest in Molecular Cytogenetic R&D with a view to seeing these advances speedily incorporated into improved service provision.

The Department is focussed on 2 complementary areas of genetic investigation FISH on paraffin embedded tissue (PET) and Array-CGH. The latter has been a natural extension of conventional metaphase CGH for which the department had particular expertise. As with all successful clinical cancer research this has involved a multidisciplinary effort with other Medical School and University of Dundee colleagues. Currently, we have 3 clinical areas of interest, B-cell lymphoma, breast cancer and colo-rectal cancer. Each of these is underpinned by Grant funded research and a dedicated PhD or Post-Doctoral Scientist. Students are co-supervised by senior NHS/University Staff. We have been able to publish on a regular basis in good quality journals and present at appropriate National and International conferences. Finally, because all of our R&D effort is closely aligned to clinical need this can quickly inform new or improved services to patients