The Cancer Center at Illinois was founded to advance fundamental engineering and basic science discoveries, whose convergence with oncology could transform cancer research, detection, and treatment. In 2010, Director Rohit Bhargava proposed this convergent approach to research and education, and the CCIL became NCI-designated in 2026 as the nation’s 8th basic cancer center.
The CCIL's mission is to unite scientists with expertise in engineering and physical sciences, cancer biology, chemistry, veterinary oncology, and pedagogy to collaboratively relieve the burden of cancer through innovative research and education. The CCIL uses an engineering mindset to create effective, personalized cancer solutions accessible to all people — a comprehensive effort spanning “Discovery to Use.” The CCIL emphasizes inspiring fundamental scientific discoveries, including excellence in imaging technologies, molecular sensing, data science and artificial intelligence, computational modeling, engineering new approaches, cancer biology, and comparative oncology. CCIL rapidly aligns fundamental advances with needs in cancer research and care through its research programs and shared resources, enabling the development of cancer-specific technologies and interventions from the ground up. To advance discoveries to use, the CCIL mobilizes university-wide talent, catalyzes multidisciplinary projects, and forges partnerships with clinical centers and industry. The CCIL is a leading proponent of the emerging area of Cancer Engineering.
The CCIL prioritizes preparing the next generation of cancer researchers, especially in emerging scientific topics. Educational and training programs span every stage of cancer research career development, from elementary school outreach through graduate training and professional preparation, with the goal of building the modern workforce needed to make cancer-free lives a reality.
Read more about the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Cancer Center