School of Cancer Medicine

The Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute is affiliated with La Trobe University as the School of Cancer Medicine.

We are discovering, developing and translating innovative cancer treatments and diagnostics that improve outcomes for all people affected by cancer.

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 also passionate about training the next generation of cancer researchers in an environment where science and clinical care come together under one roof.

Head of School's welcome About us

A leader in innovative and effective cancer treatments and diagnostics

Research

Research

Our translational research focuses on accelerating progress in areas of greatest need, from hard-to-treat cancers to underserved populations.

About our research

Graduate research

Graduate research

Direct exposure to patients and clinicians allows our students to define patient-focused questions for their work. It is a bedside-to-bench-to-bedside story.

Explore graduate research

Partnerships

Partnerships

Our partnerships ensure that our research stays current and keeps us focused on our mission of improving outcomes for cancer patients.

Discover our partnerships

Facilities

Facilities

Our platforms are purpose-built to support a range of advanced technologies and techniques, to empower researchers to deliver real-world impact.

Explore our facilities

Part of a top-ranked university

The School of Cancer Medicine is part of La Trobe University, among the highest ranking universities for life sciences degrees.

Times Higher Education (THE), 2025, Best universities for life sciences degrees in Australia 2025

Access to multi-million dollar platforms

Our students can upskill on advanced techniques and technologies in our state-of-the-art facilities, housing cutting-edge microscopy equipment to sophisticated gene editing platforms.

Explore our research platforms

Truly translational environment

Students have the opportunity to collaborate with clinicians who are embedded in our research teams, ensuring that patient needs at the bedside are the focus of work undertaken at the bench.

Discover our people

Making an impact

The Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, affiliated with La Trobe University as the School of Cancer Medicine, is discovering, developing and translating innovative cancer treatments and diagnostics that improve outcomes for all people affected by cancer. Our versatile, effective and scalable therapies are designed to benefit a broader range of patients.

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Training the next generation of cancer researchers

Learn from experts

Learn from experts

Our students are mentored by internationally recognised scientists and clinicians, gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge research that contributes directly to advancing cancer treatment and care.

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Changing outcomes

Changing outcomes

Through our bedside-to-bench-to-bedside model, we are exploring the biology of cancer and harnessing innovative technologies to develop more effective ways to detect, treat and prevent a wide range of cancer types.

Discover how

Clinical trials

Clinical trials

Clinical trials are a vital part of our mission. Conceived and led by researchers and clinical investigators, they explore innovative treatments that are directly informed by laboratory discoveries and clinical expertise.

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Annual reports

Annual reports

Discover how our researchers, clinicians and community are working together to turn bold ideas into better cancer outcomes. Find out more about how our work is grounded in purpose, collaboration and compassion.

Explore how

Connect with us

Events

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News

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Indigenous Acknowledgement

La Trobe University proudly acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands where its campuses are located in Victoria. We recognise that Indigenous Australians have an ongoing connection to the land and the University values their unique contribution to both the University and the wider Australian society. Find out more