Stopping skin cancer before it spreads
What if we could stop melanoma before it has a chance to spread? New research funded by the British Skin Foundation is exploring how melanoma communicates with other cells in the body - and how understanding these signals could help identify and prevent the spread of this serious skin cancer earlier.
In this article
A British Skin Foundation-Funded PhD making a difference
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, not because it is common, but because of how quickly it can spread. When melanoma reaches the brain, outcomes can change dramatically. At the British Skin Foundation, we fund research that tackles these challenges head-on - bringing science, people and purpose together.
At Leeds Beckett University, PhD researcher Jacob Gillett-Woodley is leading a British Skin Foundation-Funded project focused on understanding how melanoma spreads, and how we might stop it earlier.
Understanding the signals that drive spread
Jacob’s research explores extracellular vesicles - tiny particles released by cancer cells that carry messages throughout the body. These signals may help melanoma prepare distant organs, including the brain, for cancer to take hold.
By examining how these vesicles interact with surrounding cells, such as fibroblasts, the research aims to identify early warning signs of aggressive disease and uncover new ways to interrupt the spread of melanoma before it becomes life-limiting.
Why early research matters
Once melanoma spreads, treatment becomes more complex and options can be limited. Research like this helps shift the focus from reacting to advanced disease to anticipating and preventing it.
If successful, this work could help clinicians:
- Identify patients at higher risk of metastasis
- Improve monitoring and earlier intervention
- Inform future treatments designed to block cancer spread
Powered by people, driven by purpose
This PhD is funded by the British Skin Foundation, reflecting the vital role charities play in supporting innovative, early-stage research. For Jacob, the work is also personal. His commitment to cancer research was shaped by the loss of his mother to the disease - a powerful reminder that behind every discovery are lives, families and futures.
For me, cancer research is deeply meaningful. One thing I have come to understand is that cancer does not discriminate. It affects people regardless of background, appearance, or circumstance. Being involved in research with the potential to benefit everyone is what motivates me.
Jacob Gillet-Woodley
At the British Skin Foundation, we are united by skin - and by a shared belief that everyone matters.
Everyone. It’s who we’re here for.
Supporting the next generation of researchers
Jacob discovered the studentship through the British Skin Foundation, which aims to make research careers accessible. He found the application process supportive and focused on both potential and purpose.
Jacob’s project is a great example of the impact that British Skin Foundation–funded PhD research can have. By supporting talented early-career researchers, the BSF enables ambitious work that has the potential to shape how we think about preventing melanoma spread and intervening earlier.
Professor Jim Boyne
Turning research into hope
By funding researchers at the start of their careers, we help new ideas grow into lasting impact. We support science that is driven by the need for better outcomes.
Because when it comes to skin disease, progress happens when we work together.
To learn more about our work, the research we fund, and how you can get involved, explore the rest of our website and stay updated @BSFcharity on socials.
Donate to us now
By donating to skin disease research, you are helping us to find treatments and cures for common conditions like rosacea, acne and psoriasis through to potential killers like melanoma skin cancer. Thank you.
