The Institute of Cancer Research
Where we make the discoveries that defeat cancer
We are a world-leading cancer research institute, a charity, and a member institution of the University of London. Public donations and clinical partnerships are helping us to make the discoveries that defeat cancer.
We discovered that DNA damage is the basic cause of cancer, laying the foundation for the idea that cancer is a genetic disease. We've discovered many cancer-related genes – including BRCA2 – and revolutionised radiotherapy to make it more targeted, with fewer side effects. We discover more new cancer drugs than any other academic centre in the world.
ASCO 2025: Experts gather to showcase their ground-breaking cancer research
From 30 May to 3 June, the world’s leading oncologists and researchers, including scientists from The Institute of Cancer Research, London, converged at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting – a premier event in the global cancer research calendar.Some of our latest cancer discoveries
More than 120 research groups
Our research centres & divisions
Through our close partnerships with The Royal Marsden and other key UK institutions, we're leading a wide breadth of cancer research across eight divisions and more than 25 research centres and strategic initiatives.
More than 120 research groups
Find a researcher at the ICR
Need to find a specific expert or members of our research group or divisions? Just search by role, division, name or browse our researchers A-Z:
Cancer research PhDs
Our competitive PhD programme is designed for the next generation of world-leading cancer research scientists, offers an above average stipend and exceptional facilities.
Work at the ICR
Whether you could be one of our next leading researchers or in a corporate role, you'll be helping to defeat cancer in a diverse and inclusive environment.Your donations go directly into funding our cancer research
Fundraising for us
Discoveries at the ICR are made possible by a range of fundraising sources, from charity partners to sports fundraisers, corporate donors and philanthropy.
Your donations go directly into funding our cancer research
Help us outsmart melanoma to save more lives
Cancer is complex, but we are unravelling its secrets. With your support, we can increase our understanding of how melanoma grows and spreads – and develop new treatments to stop it in its tracks.