Scientific Mission
The scientific mission of UW Carbone Cancer Center is organized around six scientific programs. The programs encompass laboratory research, clinical research, population sciences and advanced research training.
Cancer Genetic & Epigenetic Mechanisms
Pursues basic and translational research to discover novel cancer genetic and epigenetic mechanisms.
Human Cancer Virology
Advances the understanding, prevention, and treatment of virus-associated cancers and other cancers through basic research.
Cancer Prevention & Control
Identifies effective approaches to reduce the burden of cancer for patients, their families, and communities through improved prevention, early detection, and survival.
Imaging & Radiation Sciences
Pursues basic, translational, and clinical research involving ionizing and non-ionizing radiation in the diagnosis, staging, and treatment of cancer.
Developmental Therapeutics
Discovers new targets and therapeutic agents, translate and advance these discoveries through clinical trials.
Tumor Microenvironment
Focuses on cell-ECM interactions, ECM structure and function, tumor cell migration and invasion, cell-cell adhesion, paracrine signaling between tumor and stromal cells, immune cell trafficking into tumors, tumor angiogenesis, metabolism, and development of in vitro models.
UW-Madison: A Legacy in Cancer Research
1930s – Pioneered Mohs Surgery for skin cancer
1940s – McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research opens as one of the first university based cancer research departments
1950s – 5-Fluorouracil invented and developed to treat various cancers
1960s – Performed world’s first successful bone marrow transplant
1970s – Designated one of first six comprehensive cancer centers in U.S.
1980s – Tamoxifen developed to treat and prevent breast cancer
1990s – Creation of a cancer prevention trials group which evolved into 20+ years leading one of five NCI-designated national groups
2000s – Led testing of first immunotherapy drug, dinutuximab (FDA approved in 2015) for children with high-risk neuroblastoma
2010s – Secured Wisconsin’s 1st NIH-funded Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE), a nationally-coveted award for head and neck cancer
2020s – Developed nationally-recognized Precision Medicine Molecular Tumor Board; secured a SPORE grant for prostate cancer
Our Mission
We are committed to defeating cancer through rapid application of groundbreaking research, prevention, and treatment.
Our Vision
Being the driving force for research, prevention, and treatment initiatives critical to defeating cancer in Wisconsin and around the world.