Institute for Cancer Studies

The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) is a world-leading cancer research institute and a college of the University of London, renowned for its prolific drug discovery engine. Operating as a charity and a company limited by guarantee, the ICR functions as a high-output biotech through its Cancer Therapeutics Unit (CTU), which has discovered or developed more than 20 drug candidates since 2005. Notable successes include the discovery of the blockbuster prostate cancer drug abiraterone and pioneering work on PARP inhibitors like olaparib. The ICR maintains extensive partnerships with major pharmaceutical companies such as AstraZeneca, Roche, and Merck KGaA to advance its pipeline from basic molecular biology into global clinical practice. Its research is primarily focused on precision medicine, overcoming drug resistance, and developing innovative therapies for hard-to-treat cancers.