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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.

Some of our latest cancer discoveries

New study uncovers precise mechanism by which telomeres help prevent cancer-driving genetic changes

30/04/25

Scientists have worked out how a protective element of our DNA helps prevent an abnormal genetic event that can lead to cells becoming cancerous.
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Oral squamous cancer cell (white) being attacked by two cytotoxic T cells (red)
Immunotherapy gives head and neck cancer patients extra years disease free

28/04/25

An immunotherapy treatment helps patients live years longer without their cancer getting worse or coming back, a major phase III trial has found.
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MRI Brain Scan
Molecular profiling is key to better outcomes for young adults with brain cancer, study shows

25/04/25

A recent study on an aggressive type of brain cancer has significantly advanced the understanding of the spectrum of tumours that occur in teenagers and young adults (TYA).
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Genetic study links common form of testicular cancer to rare variants in cell structure genes

24/04/25

The largest study to date of most common form of testicular cancer has uncovered a possible link between disease risk and variations in the genes controlling cell shape and movement.
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See all discoveries & news

More than 120 research groups

Lab - View of a lab with scientists working

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.

ICR research centres Our divisions

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:

Browse full researcher A-Z directory

Gowned students sat in a line at graduation

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.

Current PhD projects Student life and support

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.

Fundraise with us Fundraising events

Your donations go directly into funding our cancer research

Make a donation today

A monthly gift can help support our research over several years, so it has the maximum possible benefit for people with cancer.
With Gift Aid you'll also be able to add 25% at no extra cost to you

Please choose a donation amount.

With your generous support, we can continue making more discoveries, finding more cures, and saving more lives.
With Gift Aid you'll also be able to add 25% at no extra cost to you

Please choose a donation amount.

Other ways you can donate

Many of our biggest discoveries have been made thanks to legacy pledges, donations in memory and philanthropy, as well as through partnerships with corporations.