Discover the people, mission, values and history behind the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research.
the pICR
from start to FINISHING CANCER
Dedicated to advancing our understanding of cancer and its causes to improve lives, the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research (PICR) is one of only eight National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Basic Laboratory Cancer Centers in the nation.
We investigate the underlying mechanisms of cancer to fuel breakthroughs in prevention, detection and treatment.
Support tomorrow’s breakthroughs by donating to innovative cancer research at Purdue.
We empower students and trainees with the knowledge and expertise to lead tomorrow’s cancer research workforce.
DISCOVERING THE PATH TO CANCER’S DEFEAT
The end of cancer begins with basic science
To defeat cancer, we must first understand it. Every breakthrough begins with a foundation built on people, purpose and persistence. At the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research (PICR), that foundation drives the discoveries behind new drugs, deeper knowledge and lifesaving advances against cancer.
900+
Scientists: faculty, students and trainees
10
Potential cancer drugs in clinical development
3
FDA-approved drugs fighting cancer now
In the news
Fundamental discoveries are the engine that drives cancer research at the PICR. As an NCI-designated basic science center, we uncover what causes cancer and turn this knowledge into novel breakthroughs to detect and treat the disease—pushing the boundaries of what’s possible through bold, collaborative science.
Andrew Mesecar
Robert Wallace Miller Director of the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Distinguished Professor of Biochemistry, Walther Professor in Cancer Structural Biology
KEY IMPACT AREAS
Pediatric & Rare Cancers
Often characterized by their low incidence and high complexity, pediatric and rare cancers require innovative approaches and novel solutions. The PICR leverages interdisciplinary expertise to address critical gaps in knowledge and treatment approaches, with the goal of offering new hope for patients who face limited options.
Adult & Common Cancers
Researchers at the PICR investigate cancers that impact millions of people worldwide, including breast, prostate, lung, colorectal and bladder cancers. Our investigators work across disciplines, combining their strengths to find better ways to understand, detect, and treat cancer.
Drug Discovery & Treatment
PICR researchers develop targeted cancer therapies that attack tumors with precision while reducing harmful side effects. Our work addresses major challenges, including drug resistance and aggressive cancer subtypes.
Prevention & Detection
PICR researchers are developing innovative tools and strategies to prevent cancer and detect it in its earliest stages, when treatment is most effective. This impact area underscores the institute’s commitment to reducing the burden of cancer by addressing risk factors, advancing preventive measures, and improving early detection through collaborative scientific discovery.
Veterinary Medicine
Through the study of naturally occurring cancers in companion animals, veterinary medicine and comparative oncology provide critical insights into the biology, progression, and treatment of malignancies across species. Clinical research in pet patients enhances the standard of care in veterinary oncology while generating translational knowledge that expedites the development and refinement of more effective cancer therapies for human patients.
Personalized Medicine
Personalized medicine tailors cancer treatment to the unique genetic and molecular features of each patient and their tumor. Researchers at the PICR are uncovering the biological drivers of cancer to guide more precise, effective and individualized therapies.
Tyler Trent’s life and legacy transform passion into impact
In creating the Tyler Trent Pediatric Cancer Research Center, the PICR combines deep strengths in multiple research fields to fight childhood cancers and to beat osteosarcoma, the rare bone cancer that took the life of beloved Purdue alumnus and superfan, Tyler Trent.
A history of innovation
For nearly half a century, the PICR has advanced the frontiers of cancer science and helped shape the nation’s scientific story. Designated by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) as a basic laboratory cancer center in 1978, our history is defined by rigorous research, lasting impact, and a tradition of discovery built on trust that continues to drive progress against cancer.
One Health reveals deeper connections in cancer science
Purdue’s One Health Initiative integrates cancer research into a broader effort to understand the shared drivers of human, animal and plant health.
Stories & Highlights
Explore stories, updates and highlights that showcase our discoveries, celebrate our people and share the impact of PICR research.
Events
Stay connected with upcoming events that bring our research community together and spotlight the work driving progress against cancer.
Contact Us
Get in touch
Phone: 765-494-9129
Fax: 765-494-9193
Email: cancerresearch@purdue.edu
Meet our team
Find us
201 S. University St.
Hansen Life Sciences Bldg, Rm. 141
West Lafayette, IN 47907