Staff Services Student Enterprise

Genetics and cancer

The University of Edinburgh uses the latest approaches in genetic, genomic, cellular and clinical science to understand cancer and human genetics, and is home to one of the largest human molecular genetics and biology research communities in the UK.

Our research draws from a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines and is conducted in an outstanding environment for discovery science and translation, incorporating a network of world-class facilities.

By pooling the resources and complementary skills of our constituent research centres, and by linking lab and clinical wherever possible, the University brings together the scientific expertise, technology and support services needed to maximise scientific discovery and enable rapid translation of research into treatments for the benefit of patients and society.

Key areas of expertise

Genomic Medicine

Using genetics and genomics to diagnose, understand, better treat and prevent disease, our researchers generate and validate rapid and accurate clinical genetic tests and biomarkers for developmental disorders and cancer; improve prediction of disease risk and treatment response through integrated analysis of phenotypic and molecular data from patients through to population, and harness the potential of gene therapy and therapeutic gene editing to treat disease.


4-Dimensional Cellular Medicine

Harnesses state-of-the-art cell, organoid and animal models by integrating with the latest advances in CRISPR genome editing, single-cell transcriptomics and image-based phenotypic screening technologies to understand the genetic and molecular basis of disease through space and time. Also, accelerates the discovery and development of drugs and therapeutics using these models and techniques.


Translational cancer research

Looking at a range of cancer types, the Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre (CRUK) brings clinicians and scientists together to deliver outstanding cancer research and improvements in patient care. With integration with the Edinburgh Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre (ECMC) and its Host and Tumour Profiling Unit (HTPU), our research brings new evidence-led therapies to patients faster. Translational science benefits from a close partnership between the University and the NHS Lothian patient population.


Molecular and Digital Pathology

The development of new tests and clinical applications from clinical images and genomic data via advanced algorithms, statistical and computational methods. Aims include:

  • development of next-generation digital pathology tests;
  • increasing the speed and efficiency of digital pathology tests;
  • monitoring disease evolution;
  • increasing accuracy of diagnostic tests;
  • identifying biomarkers of disease.

Find out more

Dr Sarah Trewick

Business Development Manager
College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine
Institute of Genetics and Cancer, Usher Institute