About the School of Cancer Medicine
The Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute (ONJCRI), affiliated with La Trobe University as the School of Cancer Medicine, provides state-of-the-art facilities and enriching study opportunities to the next generation of cancer researchers.
ONJCRI is a leading independent medical research institute dedicated to discovering, developing, and translating innovative cancer treatments and diagnostics that improve outcomes for all people affected by cancer.
ONJCRI brings together world-class researchers, clinicians and research support professionals in a uniquely integrated environment. This close collaboration ensures our discoveries are designed with patient needs at the core, driving the development of therapies that are more effective, more tolerable and more accessible.
We are committed to innovation, equity and translational research, with a focus on accelerating progress in areas of greatest need, from hard-to-treat cancers to underserved populations.
We are also passionate about training the next generation of cancer researchers. As La Trobe University’s School of Cancer Medicine, we offer a unique opportunity to undertake postgraduate study in an environment where science and clinical care come together under one roof.
The Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute is based in a hospital, with patients only metres away from laboratory benches. The access to patients and clinicians allows our students to define patient-focused questions for their work. This is a real bedside-to-bench-to-bedside story.
Educating future scientists
Our programs are designed for every career stage. We offer Honours, Masters and PhD programs for both domestic and international students, with pathways tailored to a range of research goals and career aspirations.
Our students are mentored by internationally recognised scientists and clinicians, gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge cancer research in immunology, genomics, cancer biology, bioinformatics and imaging.
They are supported by world-class facilities and a collaborative community where their work contributes directly to advancing cancer treatment and care, making a real difference to people’s lives.
Successful candidates receive a La Trobe University Postgraduate Research Scholarship providing financial support and fee relief, for both domestic and international students.
Impactful research
We have nearly 20 laboratories specialising in immunotherapy, genomics, cancer biology, bioinformatics, nanomedicine and advanced microscopy techniques.
The research studies underway in our laboratories focus on many cancer types. Over 100 publications on average are published by our researchers every year.
While most laboratories are experts in certain cancers, our research is tumour-agnostic, generating findings that could be applied to many if not all cancers. This broad focus helps accelerate the development of effective, tolerable and accessible treatments for a wider range of patients.
Our values of mastery, equity, sustainability, transparency and empowerment guide our research, partnerships and community engagement, ensuring alignment with our vision of creating a future where cancer care is more effective, tolerable and accessible for all.
Meet our team
We have a diverse and dedicated community of researchers, clinician-scientists, students, professional staff, executive leaders and board members – united by a shared mission: to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.
Strategy
Our strategy reflects our commitment to advancing research that not only discovers but delivers, creating meaningful change in cancer care.