The funds, raised by a group of close families which have been affected by the disease in a variety of ways, will help support the research of PhD student Jack Murphy. 

Jack said: “With prostate cancer rates projected to rise 60% in the next 15 years, innovative research like mine is required to understand the biology behind fatal prostate cancer. My work will identify markers of aggressive tumour biology and explore whether this biology can be influenced by lifestyle factors. The goal is to enhance overall prognosis by facilitating more accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plans." 

Dr Aidan Cole, Consultant Clinical Oncologist and Clinical Supervisor to Jack’s PhD commented: “Contributing to local research in Northern Ireland enables our scientists and clinicians to improve the treatment options for men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer. Our aim as a team is to improve cure rates for those with localised disease and improve the prognosis and quality of life for men in whom the disease has already spread.” 

The Rossi Cyclists raised a total of £41k through the support of their generous community of family and friends to support prostate cancer research at the University. They said: "The prostate cancer research team at Queen's is doing cutting edge research into radiation therapies to improve treatment for Northern Irish patients with the most advanced and difficult to treat prostate cancer. 

Our mission is simple but powerful: to raise vital funds that will contribute directly to Prostate Cancer research at Queens University Belfast. We aim to drive forward advancements in treatments and ultimately find a cure for this devastating disease." 

Professor Karen McCloskey, Deputy Director of the Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, added: “This type of philanthropic funding is key to supporting students like Jack to help bring forward developments in diagnosing and treating prostate cancer. We are very grateful to the Rossi Cyclist Group for raising such a significant amount of money to help progress this important area of work.”