The Institute of Cancer Research

The Institute of Cancer Research The ICR is one of the world’s most influential cancer research institutes, with an outstanding record of achievement dating back more than 100 years.

Our mission is to make the discoveries that defeat cancer. The Institute of Cancer Research is making the discoveries that defeat cancer. In addition to being a leading cancer research organisation, we are also a postgraduate college (a member of the University of London), as well as a charity. To make a donation to support our work please visit icr.ac.uk/donate

Earlier this week, we hosted our first Childhood Cancer Awareness Month Reception in London. 💛 The evening was hosted by...
11/09/2026

Earlier this week, we hosted our first Childhood Cancer Awareness Month Reception in London. 💛

The evening was hosted by Professor Chris Jones, who shared insights into the vital childhood cancer research carried out by our scientists.

This was followed by a panel discussion and Q&A featuring Professor Janet Shipley, Dr Sally George, Dr Alex Bruna, and Dr Gary Newton.

Discussion focused on the groundbreaking work being carried out across their fields – and how philanthropic support has been instrumental in making it possible.

We were delighted and humbled to be able to thank our incredible supporters and family charity partners for their tireless commitment, dedication, and fundraising. Their support and unique insight is absolutely central to the childhood cancer research we are undertaking.

It was a fantastic evening that brought people together to share ideas, celebrate what we have achieved through collaboration, and look ahead to the progress we can make together.

🚨Scientists have uncovered new clues that could help identify which prostate cancers are most likely to become aggressiv...
10/09/2026

🚨Scientists have uncovered new clues that could help identify which prostate cancers are most likely to become aggressive.

The findings come from the first major study published by the Pan Prostate Cancer Group (PPCG), an international collaboration involving researchers from nine countries and molecular data from more than 2,000 prostate cancers.

Published in Nature, the study identified eight major genetic "fingerprints" responsible for around 85% of prostate cancers. Four of these were linked to cancers that were more likely to spread.

Researchers hope this landmark resource will help improve understanding of why some prostate cancers become life-threatening while others remain slow growing, laying the groundwork for more personalised treatment in the future.

Head to our comments to read more from us ⤵

“Olaparib has allowed me to enjoy milestones I did not think I would reach” Fiona Robb, 64, was diagnosed with in Aug...
10/09/2026

“Olaparib has allowed me to enjoy milestones I did not think I would reach”

Fiona Robb, 64, was diagnosed with in August 2019.

Shortly afterwards, she discovered she carries the BRCA2 gene mutation which puts her at a higher risk of developing certain cancers.

Following surgery and chemotherapy, she started taking the drug olaparib, the development of which was underpinned by ICR research. It has enabled her to live life to the full and to continue doing the things that she loves: walking, singing and travelling.

“When I was first diagnosed, I did not think I would make it to Christmas. But I am sure that olaparib has played a major part in my surviving so long and doing so well. Nearly seven years on from my diagnosis, I have reached a stage where most of the time I can put cancer to the back of my mind. It’s difficult to put into words how extremely grateful I am that I now feel like I have a future.

“Cancer research is critical. I am only alive and well because of it. New avenues of discovery which lead to successful treatments like olaparib are so important - they give hope to people with all types of cancers. Thanks to progress in cancer research, I now have more time to live my life with the people I love.”

Fiona is sharing her story to mark .

To read it in full:
https://www.icr.ac.uk/research-and-discoveries/cancer-blogs/detail/science-talk/olaparib-has-allowed-me-to-enjoy-milestones-i-did-not-think-i-would-reach----fiona-s-story

New research has shown that people with the most aggressive forms of multiple can live significantly longer when their...
08/09/2026

New research has shown that people with the most aggressive forms of multiple can live significantly longer when their treatment is tailored to the biology of their disease.

Long-term results from the UK-led OPTIMUM trial, published in The Lancet Oncology, found that around seven in 10 patients were still alive six years after starting personalised treatment.

The study also suggests that some patients with high-risk disease may currently be going undetected because advanced genetic testing is not routinely available.

These findings could help improve care for people living with multiple myeloma and support the move towards more personalised cancer treatment.

Head to our comments to learn more about our work and read Ken (pictured) story.

Terry Fox Run UK London - ONE WEEK TO GO 🏃🏃‍♀️We're counting down the days until we kick off the first Terry Fox Run UK ...
07/09/2026

Terry Fox Run UK London - ONE WEEK TO GO 🏃🏃‍♀️

We're counting down the days until we kick off the first Terry Fox Run UK for The Institute of Cancer Research event on Sunday 13 September at Battersea Park, London 📍

Haven't registered yet? Don't worry, there's still time to sign up.

Whether you're running, walking, cycling, or coming along to cheer everyone on, we'd love for you to join us!

We also have events taking place in Glasgow, Hampshire, Edinburgh, and Wrexham.

Sign up here ⤵️
https://terryfoxrunuk.org/events

Years of research have led to life-saving breakthroughs that are transforming lives today.The research we begin now coul...
07/09/2026

Years of research have led to life-saving breakthroughs that are transforming lives today.

The research we begin now could change the lives of people we will never meet, in generations we will never see.

This Remember a Charity Week, you can help shape the future of cancer research by leaving a gift in your Will. ♥️

Find out more in our free legacy guide ⤵️
https://www.icr.ac.uk/order-a-legacy-guide

Today, we’re thinking of the family of Lucas Williams, who would have been 18 years old today. 💛Jo and Andrew Williams s...
06/09/2026

Today, we’re thinking of the family of Lucas Williams, who would have been 18 years old today. 💛

Jo and Andrew Williams set up Lucas' Legacy to raise awareness and funding for childhood brain tumours in memory of their son.

Their generous support has helped fund the work of Professor Chris Jones and his team, advancing vital research into brain cancer.

We are incredibly grateful for the invaluable difference they have made in helping us progress our work in this area.

We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Dr Beatrice Howard, an outstanding breast cancer scientist whose career ...
04/09/2026

We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Dr Beatrice Howard, an outstanding breast cancer scientist whose career at The Institute of Cancer Research, London spanned more than 30 years.

Known to colleagues and friends as Bea, she devoted her career to advancing our understanding of breast development and breast cancer. Her research made a lasting contribution to the field, while her kindness, generosity and dedication to others left an equally profound impact on colleagues, students and collaborators.

Bea's experience as both a scientist and a breast cancer patient strengthened her commitment to research and helping improve outcomes for future patients. She remained active in her work until only a few months before her death, continuing to inspire those around her with her determination and resilience.

We have published a tribute to Bea's life, career and legacy ⤵
https://www.icr.ac.uk/about-us/icr-news/detail/the-institute-of-cancer-research-remembers-dr-beatrice-howard

If you'd like to share a memory of Bea, details of a tribute website created by her family can be found here ⤵
https://www.online-tribute.com/BeatriceHoward

❤ Today, we remember Rob on the anniversary of his death. Rob died of Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumour (DSRCT) in 20...
04/09/2026

❤ Today, we remember Rob on the anniversary of his death. Rob died of Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumour (DSRCT) in 2007, aged just 15.

Rob was determined to make a difference to help those affected by DSRCT, so in his memory, the charity RobsARTTT was founded.

Since then, the charity has supported the work of ICR's Professor Janet Shipley and her team, whose research focuses on sarcomas associated with poor clinical outcomes, including DSRCT.

We are so incredibly thankful for all the years of commitment, dedication and support that Rob's ARTTT has given to our research.

Our thoughts are with all of Rob's loved ones.

💛 For decades, we've been proud to lead the way in paediatric cancer research, driving discoveries that have transformed...
03/09/2026

💛 For decades, we've been proud to lead the way in paediatric cancer research, driving discoveries that have transformed how cancer in children and young people is understood, diagnosed and treated.

Although significant progress has been made in developing more effective treatments, many childhood and young people's cancers remain difficult to cure, and existing treatments can often have severe and long-lasting side effects.

🔬Explore the milestones that have shaped our impact so far, and how we're continuing to push for safer, kinder and more effective treatments for children and young people.

Head to the comments to learn more about our work ⤵

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