Our research activities are driven by a clear mission: to identify and close critical gaps in cancer care through innovative, patient-centered clinical research. We conduct and facilitate clinical cancer research at the international level with the goal of improving survival, quality of life, and long-term outcomes for patients. As we are not a pharmaceutical company, our true “product” is the generation of scientific knowledge, which we create together with our academic and industry partners through clinical trials focused on clinically meaningful and patient-relevant endpoints.
Investigator-initiated (non-pharma-sponsored) research
Our investigator-initiated research has led to practice-changing innovations, including the development of the FLOT regimen, which transformed the treatment of gastric and gastroesophageal cancer and became the worldwide standard of care.
Sponsored by our institution and conducted on an international scale, our investigator-initiated trials result from collaborative efforts between our internal experts and external partners, including leading physicians and researchers from academic centers around the world.
Our trials are designed to address critical gaps in cancer care and answer clinically relevant questions that matter to patients and physicians. We evaluate novel treatment strategies, optimize existing therapies, investigate new compounds and biomarkers, and explore innovative approaches in defined patient populations and treatment settings. Through these efforts, we generate scientific knowledge that improves outcomes and quality of life for patients with cancer. Many of our studies have gained worldwide recognition for their significant impact on clinical practice and international treatment guidelines.
Translational Research and BioDataBank
We recognize the vital role of translational research in our study designs. By integrating translational elements and artificial intelligence (AI), we are committed to advancing the understanding of cancer pathogenesis and development.
To support researchers in gaining valuable insights, we systematically collect specimens such as tissue, blood, and stool whenever possible. These biospecimens, together with associated clinical trial data, are curated in the IKF BioDataBank, a comprehensive resource that already contains more than 22,000 tissue samples. This unique combination provides an invaluable foundation for studying cancer at the molecular level.
To guarantee responsible use, access to the BioDataBank is governed by a stringent ethical and governance framework.
To facilitate researchers in gaining valuable insights, we collect various specimens such as tissue, blood, and stool samples whenever possible. These specimens, along with their associated clinical trial data, are curated in the IKF BioDataBank. This comprehensive resource houses thousands of tissue samples, providing an invaluable asset for studying cancer at the molecular level. To ensure the ethical use and access to these samples, the BioDataBank operates under a stringent governance framework.
In addition, IKF places special emphasis on clinical translation and re-translation within early clinical trials. Recognizing the urgent need for fast-tracked translation of promising compounds into the clinical setting, we have established the Platform Phase IIa Trials Initiative. This platform enables us to swiftly assess the clinical impact of early compounds and expedite their development process. By harnessing this platform, we aim to accelerate the translation of research findings into tangible benefits for patients.
One focus of our research lies in real-world studies across diverse healthcare settings. These studies provide valuable insights into the practical application of treatments, their effectiveness in routine care, and patient outcomes in real-world scenarios.
Our collaborative real-world studies and non-interventional trials are characterized by high scientific impact and enjoy strong acceptance within the oncology community.
By conducting research in real-life settings, we aim to bridge the gap between controlled clinical environments and the complexities of everyday practice — generating evidence that truly informs and improves patient care.