Centre for Cancer Research

Institute Director Professor Bryan Williams directs the Centre for Cancer Research. Scientists working in this Centre are dedicated to studying basic aspects of cancer biology, in an effort to learn more about the growth and development of different cancers, and to translate their findings into new approaches to cancer prognosis and therapy.

Scientists in the Cancer & Innate Immunity group, led by Professor Bryan Williams, are interested in the link between innate immunity, inflammatory processes and cancer. The Cancer & Developmental Biology group, directed by Professor Neil Watkins, is working on the role of embryonic signalling pathways in cancer, and the targeting of these pathways with novel therapies. Scientists in the Oncogenic Signalling group, led by Associate Professor Terry Johns, are looking at the cell signalling pathways involved in tumour survival and growth, and the development of monoclonal antibodies to treat glioma and other cancers. The Cell Adhesion Signalling group, led by Associate Professor Greg Hannigan, is exploring the focal adhesion protein integrin-linked kinase, and its role in cell migration and oncogenesis. The Cancer Metastases group, led by Dr Elizabeth Williams, is investigating the molecular pathways involved in the metastasis of tumours, including prostate, bladder and breast cancers.

The Cancer Research team also collaborates closely with scientists from other Centres in MIMR and the Monash Health Research Precinct. Expertise, resources and knowledge are shared for research into a range of cancers, including breast, bladder, endometrial, ovarian, stomach, head and neck, kidney, and prostate cancers, as well as leukaemia.