(L-R) A/Prof Andrew Metz, Dr Caroline Le, and Dr Peter Bailey at the entrance of the Botton-Champalimaud Pancreatic Cancer Centre.

In September 2024, the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre had the opportunity to visit the Botton-Champalimaud Pancreatic Cancer Centre in Lisbon, Portugal. This specialised Centre is the first hospital in the world dedicated exclusively to the research and treatment of pancreatic cancer. In a similar vein to the philanthropic roots of the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre, the specialised centre in Lisbon was founded through the generosity of the Champalimaud foundation and the Botton Family.

Jreissati Pancreatic Centre Director, A/Prof Andrew Metz, and Deputy Director, Dr Caroline Le, met with Dr Peter Bailey who leads the Translational Research Unit at the Lisbon centre. The centre’s pioneering approach bridges the gap between research and patient care with cutting-edge facilities that span research labs to outpatient, surgical, and intensive care units.

“Visiting the Botton-Champalimaud Centre was inspiring. There’s so much benefit to be gained by exchanging ideas and expertise with our international colleagues.” reflects Dr Caroline Le.

This visit provides inspiration on the future directions of the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre and also fosters collaboration internationally with specialist centres in the field of pancreatic cancer. As the Centre expands its national reach, global partnerships are key to advancing research and improving outcomes for patients worldwide.