We are a leading independent medical research institute, dedicated to discovering and translating innovative treatments and diagnostics that improve outcomes for all people affected by cancer.
The Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute (ONJCRI) brings together passionate researchers, clinicians, and research support professionals in a uniquely integrated environment.
This close collaboration ensures our research is designed with patient needs at the core, driving the development of therapies that are more effective, more tolerable, and more accessible.
Since our founding in 2014, ONJCRI has built a reputation for scientific excellence and real-world impact.
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.
140
Research studies underway in our laboratories across many cancer types.
13
Institute-sponsored clinical trials
are actively enrolling participants across Australia and New Zealand.
100
Publications on average are published by our researchers every year. A full list is available in our Annual Report.
125
Staff members collaborating with over 100 researchers across 14 countries to deliver high-impact translational research.
Vision
To create a future where cancer care is more effective, tolerable, and accessible for all, by discovering and developing personalised diagnostics and therapeutics through Translational Precision Immuno-Oncology (TPI-O), informed by the needs of patients and clinicians.
Mission
To conduct patient-centred, cutting-edge cancer research that translates into real-world solutions. We are committed to developing novel diagnostics and personalised (immune)therapies that improve the effectiveness, tolerability, and accessibility of cancer care.
Our bedside-to-bench-to-bedside approach ensures that our research is driven by clinical challenges and directly addresses patient needs.
Our values
Mastery
Striving for excellence in research and discovery, pushing boundaries to deliver meaningful advancements.
Equity
Ensuring that every patient, especially those from underserved communities, benefits from advancements in cancer care.
Sustainability
Embedding responsible research practices, financial resilience, and environmental stewardship into operations.
Transparency
Building trust through openness, accountability, and collaboration with all stakeholders.
Empowerment
Creating an environment where researchers and teams are inspired to innovate and contribute meaningfully.
Translational Precision Immuno-Oncology
Translational Precision Immuno-Oncology (TPI-O) is an innovative approach that combines the principles of precision medicine, tailoring treatment to the unique genetic, molecular, and cellular features of each patient’s cancer, with the transformative power of immuno-oncology, which activates the immune system to eliminate cancer cells.
ONJCRI takes a tumour-agnostic approach, focusing on shared biological pathways and mechanisms across multiple cancer types. This strategy enables us to develop more versatile, effective, and scalable therapies that can benefit a broader range of patients, and bring these innovations to the clinic faster.
Bedside-to-bench-to-bedside research model
Our bedside-to-bench-to-bedside approach ensures that every research question we pursue is anchored in real-world clinical need and patient experience.
By integrating insights from the clinic with advanced laboratory research and translating those findings back into new diagnostics, treatments, and models of care, we close the loop between discovery and patient impact.
This translational cycle empowers our researchers and clinicians to work hand-in-hand, accelerating innovation and delivering tangible outcomes for people affected by cancer.