N2CR, established in 2020 as one of ten Translational Research Programmes under the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, is the largest of these initiatives, bringing together more than 100 faculty members across basic, translational, and clinical sciences. United by a shared vision to advance cancer research and improve patient outcomes, N2CR fosters close collaborations with the Cancer Science Institute of Singapore (CSI), the National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS), and the National University Health System (NUHS).

N2CR is entering a new phase of transformation guided by two cross cutting research themes:

• SCOUT (Screening and Carcinogenesis: Origins in Unique Tissues) – advancing early detection & understanding of multi-tissue carcinogenesis.
• COMPASS (Customised Oncology through Molecular Profiling and Strategic Selection) – driving precision oncology through molecular profiling and tailored therapies.

These programmes catalyse translational research, spark interdisciplinary collaborations, and address the unique challenges of Asian cancers. N2CR also supports seed funding, thematic seminars, and clinician scientist training, while nurturing the next generation of cancer researchers through its PhD programme and partnerships with the NUS Clinician Scientist Development Unit and Clinician Scientist Academy.As Singapore faces an increasing cancer burden, N2CR is committed to bridging research, education, and public engagement — strengthening its impact nationally and positioning Singapore as a global leader in cancer discovery and innovation.