Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum DKFZ (German Cancer Research Centre)

As part of the Helmholtz Association the DKFZ is committed to investigate the causes and mechanisms of cancer development and, based on new research findings, to develop novel strategies for the diagnosis, treatment, early detection and prevention of cancer.

To reach this goal the center has established a dedicated research program “Translational Cancer Research”, where close interactions in Clinical Cooperation Units and with new industrial partnerships will help to bridge the gap between basic research and clinical application. Based on pioneering work of DKFZ’s tumor virology program, a preventive vaccine against cancer-initiating human papilloma virus (HPV) has recently been introduced (Gardasil).

Together with the University of Heidelberg Medical Center and the German Cancer Aid the DKFZ has established the first comprehensive cancer center in Germany, the

NationalCenter for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg. As a regular meeting point between basic researchers and physician scientists, the NCT will serve as a powerful platform to transfer new laboratory findings into a clinical setting thereby supporting the development of new cancer therapies. 

To DKFZ's website

Otmar D. Wiestler Chairman and Scientific Director