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The University of Auckland has established a new Department of Cancer Sciences, bringing together leading researchers, clinicians and educators from across disciplines to create one of New Zealand's most comprehensive cancer-focused academic communities.
The new department represents a major step towards the University's long-term vision of a comprehensive cancer centre for New Zealand, connecting expertise across the full cancer pathway, from prevention and laboratory discovery through to clinical treatment, living with cancer, and evidence-informed health policy.
Cancer is the leading cause of death in New Zealand. The Cancer Control Agency projects the present around 30,000 cases a year to rise to more than 45,000 by 2044 due to population growth and ageing.
The department brings together the Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre (ACSRC), the Department of Oncology, and Cancer Trials New Zealand, with more cancer researchers to join from across the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, the Faculty of Science and from throughout the University, creating opportunities for collaboration across Health New Zealand, community and international research partnerships.
The Department of Cancer Sciences builds on a distinguished legacy of cancer research at the University, particularly through the Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre. Established in 1956 through a community-funded partnership between the University of Auckland and Cancer Society Auckland Northland, the centre became internationally recognised for its contributions to cancer discovery and drug development.
The Department for Cancer Sciences will teach across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes and support the development of future researchers, clinicians, policymakers, advocates and innovators working in cancer care and research.
