Our Mission and Values

The German Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ) is Germany’s largest biomedical research institute and dedicated to research for a life without cancer. DKFZ scientists identify cancer risk factors, investigate how cancer progresses and develop new cancer prevention strategies. They are also developing new methods to diagnose tumors more precisely and treat cancer patients more successfully.

Two scientists in white lab coats engage in conversation in a bright laboratory. The woman, wearing blue gloves, gestures while talking to the bearded man. In the background, another person works at a computer, suggesting a collaborative research environment.

Our mission

Our mission is to significantly decrease new cancer cases and cancer deaths through transformative research, education of the next generation of leaders and seamless transfer of our results into the health system, society, and innovative products. 

Our vision

A future where groundbreaking discoveries empower a life without cancer, foster healthier societies and inspire a global commitment to prevention, early detection and treatment. Research for a life without cancer.

Our values

An illustration shows a diverse group of people in a meeting. One person stands and gestures towards a speech bubble with a heart and shaking hands. The group, including individuals in a wheelchair and wearing various clothing styles, appears engaged in a collaborative discussion.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Solarmodule auf dem Dach eines modernen Gebäudes an einem sonnigen Tag, mit bewaldeten Hügeln im Hintergrund

Sustainability

A person wearing protective clothing, gloves, a mask, and a cap is carefully handling a transparent container in a laboratory setting. The background includes shelves filled with similar containers, suggesting a focus on maintaining a controlled environment for research or experimentation.

Responsibility and Animal Welfare

Two female scientists in lab coats are collaborating in a modern laboratory. One is holding a transparent container while the other adjusts a computer monitor. They are both engaged in discussion, emphasizing teamwork in a scientific environment. The background features laboratory equipment and large windows.

Research quality and scientific integrity

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