About OCTO
Founded in 2002, OCTO began by running large Phase III trials in colorectal cancer. Our portfolio has since evolved to focus on translating high quality clinical research into real-world impact, including early cancer detection, precision prevention, and early-phase trials of novel cancer therapies.
Between 2002 and 2025, OCTO recruited over 20,000 participants into trials and collaborated with more than 250 research sites and academic groups across the UK and 14 other countries. In 2022, Professor Sarah Blagden was appointed Clinical Director and now leads OCTO during an exciting period of evolution in cancer research.
We work closely with academic and industry partners to deliver innovative and efficient trials. Our current portfolio includes early-phase studies of new cancer treatments, tested alone or in combination, alongside hypothesis-driven Early Detection and Precision Prevention studies.
OCTO is the oncology division of the UKCRC-registered Oxford Clinical Trials Research Unit (OCTRU) and a member of the NCRI Cancer Clinical Trials Units Working Group.
What We Deliver:
Innovative and flexible clinical trial methodologies
Active PPIE throughout all stages of trial design and delivery
Incorporation of real-world data to support robust and relevant outcomes
Decentralised study designs to increase geographical access and participation
Close integration of laboratory science, clinical data, and statistical analysis
Translational Support Unit
The Translational Support Unit (TSU), is a dedicated unit within the Oncology Clinical Trials Office that focuses on the operational and scientific side of biological sample management in clinical trials. Our team specialises in making sure every biological sample from every participant is handled, processed, and stored under the highest quality and regulatory standards.
- Dedicated laboratory specialising in clinical trial sample management
- End-to-end sample tracking and oversight
- Ensures regulatory compliance (GCLP accredited)
- Central point for sample coordination
- Early engagement with protocol and lab manual development
- Specialised expertise and reduced operational burden for trial management teams
- Sustainable practices (LEAF Gold)
The TSU staff also run the Lab QuTe (Laboratory Quality and Technical) Network, an initiative designed to reduce the environmental impact of clinical trials.
Clinical trials can be resource-intensive due to strict regulatory requirements and thus, can generate significant waste. Lab QuTe was established to reduce environmental impact without compromising scientific integrity. The network brings together laboratory professionals to promote collaboration and resource sharing, while encouraging sustainable working practices and supporting professional development:
•Environmental sustainability - repurposing/sharing equipment and consumables (such as in-date consumables from unused/expired clinical trial kits (instead of disposing).
•Empowering laboratory professionals - teaching technicians from other labs, techniques/ procedures such as equipment maintenance and PBMC processing.
•Quality assurance and accreditation - providing advice on different accrediting bodies and what systems should be in place (through peer-to-peer knowledge sharing).
Kendra Perez-Smith, Translational Support Unit (TSU) Manager, received an Outstanding Contribution to Sustainability Award in 2025 in recognition of her innovation and leadership in establishing Lab QuTe.