50 years IFZ
50 years of dedicated cancer research – the Institute of Cell Biology (Tumor Research) celebrates its anniversary
Essen, August 30, 2025 – Half a century in the service of science: The Institute of Cell Biology (Tumor Research) at the Medical Faculty of the University of Duisburg-Essen celebrated its 50th anniversary on August 30, 2025 – a special occasion that was duly celebrated with a ceremony, an international scientific symposium, and an open house.
Since its founding in 1975, the institute has been at the forefront of groundbreaking research into the development, biology, and treatment of cancer. Over the decades, its work has made an important contribution to the advancement of cancer medicine – with passion, innovative spirit, and a strong interdisciplinary network.
The anniversary celebrations took place in the Deichmann Auditorium of Essen University Hospital.
The development of the IFZ was presented in a ceremony, and current research topics were introduced. In their welcoming speeches, the institute’s directors, Prof. Dr. Verena Jendrossek and Prof. Dr. Ralf Küppers, together with Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Astrid Westendorf and City Director Peter Renzel, emphasized the special significance of this anniversary:
“The 50th anniversary of the IFZ is not only a look back at half a century of dedicated cancer research, but also a look ahead to the challenges that lie ahead and the opportunities we want to seize together.”
Under the title “New Insights in Lymphoma & Radiation Biology,” renowned national and international scientists came together to share current findings and future perspectives in lymphoma and radiation research.
At the same time, the institute opened its doors to the public: during the open house, interested visitors were able to experience research up close – from interactive hands-on experiments to a moving photo exhibition with impressions from five decades of institute work to direct conversations with researchers. The day impressively demonstrated the importance of dialogue between science, clinics, and society—and how great the public interest in modern cancer research remains.
Special thanks go to the dedicated supporters and sponsors who contributed significantly to the success of the events, as well as to several foundations and the dean’s office, which have been supporting cancer research at the institute for many years.
The institute looks back on its history with pride and gratitude – and looks to the future with energy and a spirit of research. Its mission remains clear: to find new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer, and to further strengthen the close ties between science, clinical practice, and society.
Contact:
Institute for Cell Biology (Tumor Research)
University Hospital Essen
https://zellbiologie.uk-essen.de/