Aberdeen Cancer Centre

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Aberdeen Cancer Centre

Advancing patient care through clinical and laboratory research and education

Support our world-leading Cancer Research

The generosity of alumni, friends and supporters has helped the University of Aberdeen make a difference to the world around us for 530 years.

If you would like to support our world-leading cancer research, please visit the University of Aberdeen Development Trust page for further information.

Aberdeen Cancer Centre

At the University of Aberdeen, we are driving progress in cancer research, bringing together leading experts from across the University and NHS Grampian to improve prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care of all cancers. Our multidisciplinary research unites specialists in cell and molecular biology, pathology, surgery, oncology, primary care, health psychology, health data science, and public health, fostering collaboration that translates cutting-edge discoveries into real-world impact.

We take a bench-to-bedside—and back again—approach, ensuring that laboratory breakthroughs inform clinical practice while patient needs shape our research priorities. Working across our research institutes within the School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, and in close partnership with NHS Grampian, we cover the full spectrum of cancer research—from fundamental molecular science to innovative healthcare solutions.

Our research is strengthened by state-of-the-art facilities, including the Grampian Biorepository, which provides access to human tissue for study, the Institute of Medical Sciences, home to advanced technologies and specialist support as well as the expertise and facilities within the Rowett Institute which are key to the success of our studies on diet and cancer treatments, and our close working partnership with the Centre for Healthcare Randomised Trials (CHaRT) which enables us to lead randomised clinical trials from Aberdeen. By integrating clinical and laboratory research on a single health campus, we foster seamless collaboration between researchers and clinicians, accelerating discoveries that make a difference in patients’ lives.

Read below to learn more about the dedicated team driving our cutting-edge research, including our Directors and leading Researchers. In addition, this page highlights the vital contributions of our funders, whose support makes our impactful work possible.

Aberdeen Cancer Centre - Our Directors

The Aberdeen Cancer Centre is led by our Directors, Professor Anne Kiltie and Professor Valerie Speirs, who bring a wealth of expertise in cancer research, clinical practice, and innovation. Their leadership drives the Centre’s mission to advance cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment through cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and strong partnerships with the NHS, industry, and the wider academic community. Committed to improving patient outcomes and shaping the future of cancer care, the directors play a pivotal role in fostering a dynamic environment for scientific discovery and translational impact.

Aberdeen Cancer Centre - Associate Members

Beatrix Elsperger

Consultant (NHS G) Breast Surgeon

Dr Leslie Samuel

McMillan Consultant Oncologist NHS Grampian