Cancer Research UK's Cambridge Research Institute, based in the Li Ka Shing building on the Biomedical Campus, has transferred into the University.
“The Cambridge Research Institute looks forward to working with Cancer Research UK and the University to uncover more of cancer’s secrets.”
Professor Simon Tavaré
The University and Cancer Research UK have also announced the appointment of Professor Simon Tavaré as the next Director of the newly branded Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, succeeding Sir Bruce Ponder.
The transfer will strengthen the University’s presence in cancer – one of its strategic research initiatives – and benefit the Institute and its researchers by facilitating interactions not only with partners on the Biomedical Campus, but also across other research disciplines, particularly in the Biological and Physical Sciences.
Since it was formally opened by the Queen in February 2007, the Cambridge Institute – one of five CRUK institutes in the UK – has established an international reputation for academic and research excellence, building on strong scientific and clinical links with Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and across Cambridge. Its key research strands currently focus on:
• Basic research into the cellular and molecular biology of cancer
• Research in molecular imaging, genomics, bioinformatics and computational biology
• Translational research on specific cancer sites
• Clinical investigations including experimental medicine-based clinical studies and trials.
Cancer Research UK transferred the assets of the Institute – both equipment and the lease on the premises – and approximately 250 staff to become a department within the School of Clinical Medicine. Cancer Research UK will continue to core-fund the Institute, in addition to providing significant grant funding to other departments within the University.
The integration of the Institute brought together the skills and hard work of two project teams, with other staff on both sides providing expertise and advice in human resources, finance, procurement, estates, IT, health and safety and legal services.
Professor Maxwell, Head of the School of Clinical Medicine and Regius Professor of Physic, said: “Cambridge is extremely strong in cancer research. The Institute coming into the University is an important step in bringing our strengths together to accelerate progress in understanding the biology of cancer and developing new approaches to treatment.”
Professor Tavaré said: “It is an honour to be chosen to direct the Institute after its move to the University. The Cambridge Institute looks forward to working with Cancer Research UK and the University to uncover more of cancer’s secrets.”