The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, a world-renowned cancer center, has announced a pioneering partnership with NTT DATA and CARPL.ai to transform cancer research through artificial intelligence (AI). This collaboration has resulted in the creation of an advanced AI-driven radiology analysis service, set to significantly enhance cancer diagnostics and improve patient outcomes.
Accelerating Cancer Research with AI
Backed by a three-year grant from the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), the new AI-powered platform will support research at both The Royal Marsden and the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR). The service aims to accelerate the development and evaluation of AI algorithms across multiple cancer types, including sarcoma, lung, breast, brain, and prostate cancers. These innovations are expected to deliver faster diagnoses, greater accuracy, and more personalized treatments.
Advanced Infrastructure for Scalable Innovation
NTT DATA developed a bespoke AI computing solution to power this initiative. Using high-performance Dell servers and state-of-the-art GPU processing, the system operates on CARPL.ai’s robust MLOps clinical imaging platform. This setup enables researchers to test, deploy, and monitor a wide range of AI models within a secure and scalable environment.
Consulting Support Enhances Clinical Integration
In addition to technical infrastructure, NTT DATA is offering specialized consulting services. These services help researchers at The Royal Marsden assess new imaging AI tools in real-world clinical settings, drawing maximum value from both in-house and commercial AI algorithms.
Expert Endorsements Highlight Transformative Potential
Professor Dow-Mu Koh, Professor in Functional Cancer Imaging and Consultant Radiologist at The Royal Marsden, emphasized the importance of the collaboration.
“AI has immense potential to support clinicians in diagnosing and treating cancer earlier and more precisely,” he said. “By partnering with NTT DATA and CARPL.ai, we’ve established a safe, scalable environment to fully explore AI’s capabilities and impact cancer care across the NHS.”
Government Support for Digital Healthcare Transformation
Minister of State for Health, Karin Smyth, praised the initiative, stating:
“Our 10-Year Health Plan is committed to modernizing the NHS with cutting-edge digital solutions. This trial, though in its early stages, represents the kind of collaboration we need between the NHS, industry, and academia. Early detection saves lives, and AI innovations will revolutionize how we diagnose and treat cancer.”
Driving Innovation with National Research Support
Professor Mike Lewis, NIHR Scientific Director for Innovation, stressed the urgency of innovation in cancer care.
“Cancer remains one of the UK’s leading causes of death. This three-year grant will enable researchers to advance AI-driven cancer detection and diagnosis. This project represents the forefront of medical research and promises to significantly enhance patient care and NHS capabilities.”
Ethical AI Use in Healthcare
As per the press release, Tom Winstanley, Chief Technology Officer at NTT DATA UK & Ireland, added: “This initiative exemplifies responsible AI innovation in healthcare. We’re proud to support The Royal Marsden in redefining the boundaries of cancer research through ethical and secure AI applications.”
Next Steps: Live Research and Real-Time Insights
Once operational, the AI platform will allow research teams to evaluate various AI models across multiple cancer types. CARPL.ai’s centralized interface and monitoring tools will enable continuous performance tracking, ensuring quick feedback loops between model development and deployment. These insights will help integrate AI into clinical workflows more effectively.
NTT DATA will continue collaborating with The Royal Marsden to support the platform’s next phase. Together, they aim to enhance cancer care and deliver better outcomes for patients across the NHS.