Cancer Research Areas & Groups

CCCZ integrates and supports all cancer research activities of the UZH, USZ, Balgrist University Hospital and the University Children's Hospital Zurich. Scientists and physicians from around 65 research groups and clinical departments work closely together to improve the understanding of cancer and develop innovative treatment concepts.

Dedicated research areas have been established for Tumor Immunology, (Epi)Genetics & Genomics, Oncogenic Signaling and Imaging, Technology Development, and Digitalization.

CCCZ Research Groups A-Z

CCCZ Cancer Research Areas & Groups

Tumor Immunology

Research studies show that the immune system can influence the development and progression of cancer. Strengthening the immune system is therefore a promising therapeutic approach to fight cancer.  Physicians and scientists of the CCCZ Research Area Tumor Immunology investigate the interaction between the tumor and immune system. The overall aim is to develop novel and targeted immunotherapies with minimal side effects.

Epigenetics, Genetics and Genomics

Many of the characteristics of cancer cells, such as malignant growth and the ability to metastasize, are influenced by genetic changes. Research groups of the CCCZ Research Area Epigenetics, Genetics and Genomics study gene and genome alterations in cancer cells aiming to develop novel treatment concepts that selectively target cancer cells.

Oncogenic Signaling

Signal transduction pathways within and between cells are often deregulated in cancer and contribute to uncontrolled growth and metastasis. In the CCCZ Research Area Oncogenic Signaling, scientists and physician investigate the effect of cancer drugs at the molecular level. Another focus is to overcome drug resistance of cancer cells.

Imaging, Technology Development and Digitization

The CCCZ Research Area Imaging, Technology Development and Digitization pursues the goal of developing personalized diagnosis and treatment methods against cancer. Novel imaging techniques, such as innovative MRI sequences, PET imaging and radiomics, enable precise characterization of tumors. High-throughput molecular technologies, like sequencing, proteomics, metabolomics and imaging, are essential for molecular diagnostics and monitoring of disease progression. For the analysis of scientific and clinical data, the development of modern bioinformatics and information technologies are of central importance.