About Swiss Cancer Institute
Clinical research for a cure tomorrow
The Swiss Cancer Institute is the only research institution of national importance dedicated exclusively to independent, multicenter cancer research in Switzerland. As a leading organization in the field of academic oncology, we conduct comprehensive research in all types of cancer and across all disciplines.
Our institute works closely with all major university hospitals and leading cancer centers in Switzerland. Through this strong network, we coordinate a large number of international, academic clinical trials and create the basis for innovative cancer therapies. In doing so, we reach almost all cancer patients in the country.
Our Mission
As a research institution of national importance, we conduct non-profit multicenter clinical research for all types of cancer in all specialist areas and collaborate with all hospitals. Our national network reaches all people affected by cancer in Switzerland and coordinates international academic cancer trials. Swiss Cancer Institute‘s research sustainably improves clinical care and is also carried out in cooperation with the industry to enable fast access to best possible treatments.
Our Vision
Swiss Cancer Institute - Clinical research for a cure tomorrow
Our Values
Curiosity
We ask questions where others stop - to find new answers for the cure of cancer.
Accountability
We conduct our research with integrity, quality and clear objectives.
Appreciation:
We recognize every achievement - in the laboratory, in the team and with our partners. The Swiss Cancer Institute stands for independent, cross-indication cancer research in Switzerland.
Management Board
Board members (from left to right): Prof. Dr. med. Dr. phil. nat. Sacha Rothschild | PD Dr. med. Richard Cathomas | Dr. iur. Christian Rathgeb-Cavigelli | Marianne Binder-Keller | Prof. Dr. med. Miklos Pless, President | Dr. oec. HSG Willy Oggier | Silvia Schenker | Prof. Dr. med. Urban Novak
Management
Ursula Straub (CHRO) | Vincent Gruntz (CEO) | Céline Hummel (CQO) | Christine Biaggi Rudolf (COO) | Roch-Philippe Charles (CSO) | Stefan Demetz (CFO)
Federal contract for clinical cancer research
The Swiss Cancer Institute conducts clinical cancer studies for adults in Switzerland on behalf of the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI). This is based on Article 15a of the RIPA.
Funded by a performance agreement with the federal government to strengthen independent oncology research.
Your questions, our answers – the Swiss Cancer Institute explains
What is the Swiss Cancer Institute and what does it do?
The Swiss Cancer Institute is the national organization for clinical cancer research in Switzerland and conducts independent trials on all types of cancer - interdisciplinary, evidence-based and patient-oriented.
How is the Swiss Cancer Institute structured and who belongs to it?
The Swiss Cancer Institute is a non-profit organization whose members include all university hospitals and leading clinics in Switzerland – its network reaches around 80% of all cancer patients in the country.
How relevant is the Swiss Cancer Institute for Switzerland?
The Swiss Cancer Institute is recognized by the federal government as an organization of national importance and is financially supported by the SERI through a service agreement. The Swiss Cancer Institute has significantly influenced a large number of treatment guidelines for various types of cancer through its research. Without the Swiss Cancer Institute, clinical cancer research would not be possible to this extent in Switzerland.
What exactly does the Swiss Cancer Institute do in clinical research?
The Swiss Cancer Institute conducts the majority of all non-profit, patient-oriented, multicenter cancer studies in Switzerland, achieves a publication rate of 95%, and influences treatment standards and cost efficiency. In addition, the Swiss Cancer Institute makes an important contribution to the education and training of young cancer researchers.
The Swiss Cancer Institute coordinates virtually all cancer studies conducted by international research groups in Switzerland and works with industry to make new cancer drugs available to affected patients as quickly as possible.
What challenges does the Swiss Cancer Institute face?
In order to secure long-term medical care, the Swiss Cancer Institute needs additional funding, as patient-oriented, independent clinical research is underfunded and in decline in Switzerland. Increasing regulatory complexity and international competition, including from countries that receive far more significant government support, are additional challenges.
How does the Swiss Cancer Institute plan to increase its visibility?
With its new 2025–2030 strategy and new brand identity, the Swiss Cancer Institute aims to significantly increase the number of new trials and expand its public relations work. In addition to a new patronage program and the offer of strategic partnerships, the aim is to give politicians a better understanding of the national importance of the Swiss Cancer Institute.
How can you support the Swiss Cancer Institute?
By becoming a donor, making a donation or bequest, or simply by spreading the word about the importance of clinical cancer research.