The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) has elected Professor Rebecca Fitzgerald, Research Lead for Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital, as a 2026 Fellow.
She was awarded the honour for her role in developing the capsule sponge — a quick, simple, and inexpensive test to detect Barrett’s oesophagus and precancerous cells.
The AACR commented on the reasons for her new appointment as: "For unparalleled contributions to uncovering the molecular pathogenesis of esophageal adenocarcinoma and for pioneering minimally invasive cancer diagnostics through the development of the Cytosponge-TFF3, the first non-endoscopic test for Barrett’s esophagus, which has demonstrated over tenfold greater sensitivity in large-scale trials and transformed early detection by offering a practical, cost-effective alternative to endoscopy."
"It is an honour to be elected an AACR fellow. AACR is a powerful convener for the cancer research community and I am excited to join the Academy as an ambassador for the growing field around earlier cancer detection and interception."
Professor Rebecca Fitzgerald, Research Lead for Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital
The Fellows of the AACR Academy (opens in a new tab) was established to honour scientists, clinicians, and physician-scientists whose visionary work has reshaped the landscape of cancer research. These individuals have propelled major breakthroughs in cancer biology, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, and together form a global community of thought leaders who are advancing the AACR’s mission to prevent and cure all cancers. As a collective, elected Fellows of the AACR Academy serve as a reservoir of expertise, supporting research, education, collaboration, communication, and advocacy for vital research funding that is necessary to accelerate progress and improve patient care.
Election as a Fellow of the AACR Academy is achieved through a rigorous, peer-review process designed to evaluate and recognise only those individuals whose scientific accomplishments have left an enduring mark on cancer research. Each candidate is assessed on the depth and global impact of their work, ensuring that induction remains one of the highest honours bestowed by the AACR.
Professor Rebecca Fitzgerald is Research Lead for Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital. Her expertise will help us realise the vision for the new hospital — bringing together clinical and research expertise in a new, world-class hospital, designed in partnership with our patients. We will detect cancer earlier, treat it more precisely and save more lives.