Cancer Research

Our cancer research division has a focus on understanding fundamental biology and its translation into clinical studies, leading into better personalised cancer treatment approaches.

Lack of efficacy, resistance to treatment, and metastasis are major problems associated with poor cancer survival. Our research aims to gain further insights into pathways involved in the development, progression, and spread of tumours, and in their response to treatment. We also look to characterise the mechanisms of action of anti-cancer drugs and drug candidates. We use this knowledge to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutics that will lead to better personalised cancer care and improve patient survival.

Key areas of research for the division are: stress response pathways and adaptation; mechanisms of action of drugs; cell signalling; resistance to treatments; cell cycle and senescence; DNA damage and repair; tumour microenvironment; photobiology; and clinical trials, with focus on lung, breast, oesophageal, ovarian, blood, skin and brain cancers.

Our research is funded by major UK Research Councils, including the MRC and BBSRC, medical and cancer research charities such as Cancer Research UK, Medical Research Scotland, the Cunningham Trust, the Melville Trust, Tenovus Scotland and the Ninewells Cancer Campaign, government organisations such as the Chief Scientist Office, as well as by commercial partnerships.

The division is also committed to the education and development of the next generation of cancer research scientists and clinical leaders, the design and delivery of top-quality education through research-led teaching of undergraduate medical and biomedical students, as well as its postgraduate Master’s and PhD research programmes.