Bringing N2CR to Greater Heights

The National University of Singapore’s Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR) was established in 2020 as one of ten Translational Research Programmes under the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. As the largest of these programmes, N2CR brings together more than 100 faculty members spanning basic, translational, and clinical sciences — united by a shared vision to advance cancer research and improve patient outcomes.

Under the leadership of our Founding Director, Professor Ashok Venkitaraman, N2CR has built a strong foundation for integrating multidisciplinary expertise across NUS and the National University Health System (NUHS). Our close partnerships with the Cancer Science Institute of Singapore (CSI) and the National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS) have created a dynamic ecosystem that accelerates the translation of discoveries from bench to bedside. Together, we have nurtured a vibrant research community dedicated to pushing the frontiers of cancer biology, therapeutics, and precision medicine.

With N2CR 2.0, we are embarking on the next phase of transformation, guided by two cross-cutting research themes — SCOUT (Screening and Carcinogenesis: Origins in Unique Tissues) and COMPASS (Customised Oncology through Molecular Profiling and Strategic Selection). These initiatives aim to catalyse translational research and foster cross-disciplinary collaborations to address the unique challenges of Asian cancers. Through these themes, N2CR continues to support seed funding, thematic seminars, and collaborative platforms that spark innovation, deepen partnerships, and strengthen clinician-scientist training — turning discoveries into real-world solutions.

Training and nurturing the next generation of cancer researchers remain central to our mission. Our PhD programme and collaborations with the NUS Clinician Scientist Development Unit and Clinician Scientist Academy exemplify our commitment to cultivating both scientific and clinical talent to drive the future of cancer research.

As Singapore faces an increasing cancer burden, N2CR is committed to deepening its engagement with the wider community — bridging research, education, and public awareness to make a lasting national impact.
We now look forward to a new chapter for N2CR — one built upon the solid foundation of our formative years. We remain steadfast in our mission to bring N2CR to greater heights: strengthening interdisciplinary collaborations, expanding our research impact, and positioning Singapore as a global leader in cancer research and innovation.
We invite you to join us on this journey — as collaborators, partners, and advocates — as we advance towards new frontiers in cancer discovery and care.

Professor Goh Boon Cher
Director, NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR)
Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine
National University of Singapore