Annual reports

This year has been another great success for our principal investigators, trainees and staff, filled with major accomplishments and important scientific advances.

I am very proud to present the 2023-24 Annual Report of the Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute (GCI).

GCI investigators are renowned for their groundbreaking work on the genetic and molecular changes that drive tumors, and pioneering discoveries on the complex and dynamic ecosystem of the tumour microenvironment. These breakthroughs are leading to precision therapies with the potential to treat aggressive cancers safely and effectively, as well as new strategies to improve immunotherapies— revolutionary treatments that harness the body’s immune system to fight cancer.

Although they hold great promise, immunotherapies have a long way to go before reaching their full potential, and many patients have yet to benefit. By integrating new knowledge of the tumour microenvironment with expertise in precision cancer medicine, GCI scientists have discovered biomarkers and targets with the potential to bring the benefits of immunotherapy to a much wider range of patients.

Fundamental research is the bedrock of these advances. With cutting-edge technology, we are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in cancer research— from creating models that replicate the biology of patients’ tumours in the lab to mapping the complex networks of the tumour microenvironment. Our commitment to understanding the mechanisms that drive cancer is matched by our leadership of interdisciplinary networks connecting us to clinicians, patients, and many other partners. Working together, we are applying discoveries from fundamental research in pursuit of the next generation of transformational cancer therapies.

This report is a testament to our dedicated teams of scientists, professionals, and trainees who work tirelessly to discover the knowledge to cure, and the many committed donors and supporters who make our vision possible. With your support, we will continue to bring new hope to cancer patients, their loved ones, and the wider community.

Professor Morag Park

Director, Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute
Diane and Sal Guerrera Chair in Cancer Genetics
Distinguished James McGill Professor, Depts. of Oncology,
Biochemistry and Medicine, McGill University

Annual Report 2023-2024

The 2023-2024 GCI annual report embraces the theme of momentum and spotlights our new visual identity, emphasizing the GCI's legacy, and pointing to an inspiring and hopeful future for cancer research. At this strategically opportune juncture, we are harnessing our momentum as a FRQS-funded Institute, moving rapidly towards the promise of precision cancer medicine. Our researchers have made remarkable strides, from cancer biomarkers to RNA-based therapies, advancing cancer diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes. The report also commends the dedication of our principal investigators, trainees, and staff who continually push boundaries, driving essential scientific advancements.

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Strategic Research Excellence Plan 2024 Executive Summary

While major strides have been taken in the diagnosis and clinical management of cancer, many forms of the disease have few treatment options, resistance to therapies is a significant problem, and matching patients with the best treatments can be very challenging. The Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute (GCI) tackles the most important problems in cancer research by applying the rigour and creativity of fundamental science. Our mission is to understand what drives cancer to better prevent, diagnose and treat the disease.

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