Centre for Cancer Research

Centre for Cancer Research scientists are at the forefront of cancer research discovery, innovation, and translation into cancer treatment. Their focus is on accelerating the next generation of personalised therapies for adult and paediatric cancers using a comprehensive approach including functional genomics and big data.

Professor Ron Firestein

Centre Head Professor Ron Firestein

Centre for Cancer Research overview

Scientists working in the Centre for Cancer Research undertake basic research into the molecular mechanisms underlying the development, growth and metastasis of tumours, as well as the relationship between the innate immune system and cancer. The discovery and development of novel therapies for the treatment of cancers is also an important aspect of the team’s work.

Key research areas

    • Links between innate immunity, inflammatory processes and cancer‒ Role of embryonic signalling pathways in cancer, and the targeting of these pathways with novel therapies

    • Cell signalling pathways involved in tumour survival and growth, and the development of monoclonal antibodies to treat glioma and other cancers

    • Role of integrin-linked kinase in cell migration and oncogenesis

    • Molecular pathways involved in the metastasis of tumours, including colorectal, ovarian, prostate and bladder cancers

    • Role of peptidase activity on inflammatory signalling and tumour microenvironment in ovarian cancer

    • Role of the microenvironment in tumour progression, chemoresistance and metastasis

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Diseases we research

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Elias' mum is part of the VPCC Patient and Family Advisory Committee

Sarcoma Program

Improving survival rates and treatments for childhood, adolescent and young adult (AYA) sarcomas.