Canadian Institutes of Health Research - Institute of Cancer Research

**About ICR** Cancer is the leading cause of death in Canada. An estimated two in five Canadians will develop cancer during their lifetime and one in four will die from cancer. As one of the 13 virtual institutes of CIHR, the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) is dedicated to supporting cancer research and building capacity across the [four pillars of health research](https://cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/53146.html) to advance our understanding of cancer and make important strides towards a cancer-free world. **Who we are** **Mandate** To support research that reduces the burden of cancer on individuals and families through prevention strategies, screening, diagnosis, effective treatments, psychosocial support systems, and palliation. **Mission** To foster research based on internationally accepted standards of excellence, which bears on preventing and treating cancer, and improving the health and quality of life of cancer patients and survivors. **Community** The ICR community is comprised of researchers, scientists, students, community groups, health care practitioners, people with lived and living experience, policy makers and individuals from Canada and around the world who share an interest in cancer research. **Staff and Institute Advisory Board** The ICR is managed by a team of staff, under the direction of a [Scientific Director](https://cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/47563.html). A dedicated [Institute Advisory Board (IAB)](https://cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/50732.html), comprised of diverse cancer community members provides essential input and guidance into all of ICR’s initiatives and activities. **What we do** ICR aims to strengthen Canada’s cancer research footprint. The institute plays an important role in creating and maintaining a robust cancer research environment in Canada that attracts and sustains world-class researchers by providing leadership and collaborating to develop Canada's cancer research agenda. Through our current mandate and [research priorities](https://cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/53771.html), we support research across all aspects of the cancer journey, from prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care. ICR supports research and capacity building in the Canadian cancer research landscape through various initiatives, including establishing and strengthening national and international partnerships, continued community engagement, fostering the professional development of researchers and trainees, and facilitating knowledge mobilization. Cancer is a global health challenge that require the collective efforts of diverse stakeholders. ICR brings together a community of members from across Canada and the world to discover, innovate, and address cancer’s greatest challenges.