Cancer research in London
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Discover London's cluster of world-class research institutes and how the city is leading the fight against cancer.
There are around 11 million new cases of cancer worldwide each year. Scientists and students in London are conducting vital research to help fight cancer and find a cure to a disease that is caused by a number of factors including age, diet, smoking, sunlight and hereditary genes.
Formed in 1909, the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) has grown to become one of the world's foremost independent cancer research organisations. Recent achievements include the discovery of an anti-cancer drug, which may help develop treatments for a range of cancers including prostate, breast, bowel, ovarian and kidney.
Students at ICR are guided by world-class scientists and researchers. They have access to award-winning facilities such as the Interactive Education Unit, which is developing an online training tool for prostate cancer research.
Such resources attracted Indian graduate Shozeb Haider to study at ICR. “Being part of the work at the Institute was very motivating especially as my supervisor was supportive and very knowledgeable. The unique range of research skills I developed has been invaluable in opening up my career opportunities,” he said.
Shozeb is now continuing his research, examining the structure of DNA and designing potential anti-cancer drugs. His research has attracted commercial interest and has been licensed to industrial partners who aim to develop his research for use in the clinic.
Based at University College London (UCL), the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research is the largest international not-for-profit institute dedicated to understanding and controlling cancer.
UCL also has its own Cancer Institute, which provides students with an in-depth look at the biology behind the disease processes that lead to cancer. Here, students get a strong grounding in the cutting-edge research techniques used to advance our understanding of this disease.
Research students at Imperial College London can opt for the MRes in Cancer Biology to experience a diverse range of technologically advanced approaches in cancer biology. Students can also undertake an independent research project at the prestigious London Research Institute at Cancer Research UK.
The Institute is the world's leading independent organisation dedicated to cancer research and supports over 500 research groups throughout the UK.
It is such innovative solutions to difficult challenges that keep London at the centre of cancer research.
Posted: Tuesday 9 February 2010