Research Programs

RutgersCancer-ResearchProgramOne of the primary responsibilities of a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center is to conduct high-impact research that will advance the prevention and treatment of cancer. Continuously funded by the NCI through a Cancer Center Support Grant (P30CA072720), Rutgers Cancer Institute upholds its NCI designation with significant engagement in clinical, basic, and population-based cancer research. Our researchers conduct matrix-style investigations that bridge these scientific areas together into one coordinated effort in the fight against cancer.  

Rutgers Cancer Institute attracts investigators from a wide range of scientific disciplines. Based on the research strengths of our members, our research programs are organized into five programs that foster interdisciplinary coordination and collaboration. 


Cancer Metabolism and Immunology

Program aims are to identify new approaches to improve cancer treatment by studying changes in tumor cell metabolism, growth, proliferation, survival, and tumor-host interaction. 

Program Leaders: Wei-Xing Zong, PhD and Christian Hinrichs, MD


Genomic Instability and Cancer Genetics (GICG)

Program aims are to identify biomarkers and therapeutic targets by studying and defining tumor cell genomes, repair mechanisms, and gene expression. 

Program Leaders: Chang S. Chan, PhD, and Cristina Montagna, PhD


Cancer Pharmacology (CP)

Program aims are to discover and develop more effective cancer treatments. 

Program Leaders: X. F. Steven Zheng, PhD and Stephen K. Burley, MD, DPhil


Clinical Investigations and Precision Therapeutics (CIPT)

Program aims are to promote the translation of pre-clinical science into early phase cancer trials to develop new diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic strategies. 

Program Leaders: Shridar Ganesan, MD, PhD and Wadih Arap, MD, PhD  


Cancer Prevention and Control (CPC)

Programs aims are to reduce cancer burden in New Jersey and beyond by examining and improving clinical and public health practice and policies across the cancer control continuum. 

Program Leaders: Carolyn J. Heckman, PhD and Elisa V. Bandera, MD, PhD 


Calendar of Program Meetings & Events for Cancer Institute Members