The MRC Cancer Unit is based on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus and provides an outstanding environment for cancer research. The scientific mission of the Unit is to advance fundamental understanding of early steps in carcinogenesis and to translate this information to new approaches for early diagnosis, risk stratification or therapy that can be applied in the clinic. We are investigating the genes and proteins involved in a range of cancers including breast, renal, lung, pancreatic and oesophageal cancer, in order to develop new diagnostic tools and treatments for patients. PhD studies at the MRC Cancer Unit are focussed on developing the next generation of cancer researchers. Current research in the Unit spans a number of areas including genome evolution, cellular metabolism, microenvironmental interactions and transcriptional programmes as well as translational/clinical research on early detection, chemical biology and therapeutic approaches. All graduate students In the Unit have the opportunity to acquire a range of research and other skills in a supportive scientific environment.