Breakthrough Biology for Cancer Research

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Fundamental research into the biological causes and drivers of cancer is vital to deliver scientific progress in this priority area of human health. Researchers from the School of Biological Sciences and the wider University are working together across disciplines to develop innovations and insights at the frontiers of cancer biology, laying the groundwork for the development of accurate diagnostic tools, preventative strategies and personalised cancer treatments.

The two current areas of focus are: Discovering the biological blueprints of cancer and Fighting cancer with the immune system.

Focus Topic: Discovering the biological blueprints of cancer

Academic Leads: Catherine Lindon and Suzanne Turner

Within the Molecules and Cells Research Theme there is an incredible breadth and depth of researchers working to understand the fundamental biology of cancer, work that is essential for improving prevention, early detection, and treatment strategies. From evolutionary and genomic disease drivers, to cell behaviour and cancer risk markers, our scientists harness a strong collaborative ethos to expand understanding and knowledge of cancer, whilst also working closely with our clinical colleagues and lived experience partners to ensure faster progress towards improved patient outcomes.  

We are pleased to be partnering with the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre and the Fundamental Biology of Cancer programme as part of this important work.

Innovation and Impact

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• Research at the University of Cambridge into DNA repair inhibitors led to a novel cancer therapy, Olaparib, which has been approved for ovarian, breast, pancreatic and prostate cancer treatment. Read more
• Working with Kings College, Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group and The Chartwell Trust, Professor Suzanne Turner has helped create The Oncology Guide - a family-friendly guide to cancer.

Focus Topic: Fighting cancer with the immune system

Academic Leads: Brian Ferguson and Rahul Roychoudhuri

A specific focus within the cancer research community in the School of Biological Sciences is to understand how fundamental processes of the body’s immune system can be supported and directed to regulate cancer pathology. Catalysed by the Infection and Immunity Research Theme, scientists from across biological, physical, engineering and clinical biology are working together to harness the amazing potential of the immune system in cancer suppression and treatment.  

In addition to new academic collaborations, cancer biology researchers are engaging with lived experience participants to ensure research outcomes are patient centred, and with industry partners to share the latest research and advance cancer immunotherapeutics.

Innovation and Impact

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• This important work is in line with the UK Government strategy and investment in cancer immunotherapy and vaccine trials, and will be further enhanced by the recent announcement that BioNTech plans to set up new laboratories in Cambridge with an expected capacity of more than 70 highly skilled scientists.
• A group of scientists is also bringing a range of activities focussed on this topic to the Cambridge Festival 2024.

Participatory Research

The School of Biological Sciences is committed to supporting participatory research, where people with lived experience of the research topic in question are included in the design, development and delivery of research, and supported and compensated appropriately. This is especially pertinent in research linked to clinical conditions such as cancer, where engagement with patient groups and carers can improve the quality and impacts of research. 

Cambridge researchers can find out more about the support and guidance for equitable participatory research on the School Information Hub.

Key Collaborators

The biological blueprints of cancer

Fighting cancer with the immune system

Work with us

We welcome opportunities to collaborate with industry partners, policy makers and academics. If you are interested in working with us, please contact Dr Abi Herrmann, Research Strategy Manager.