Featured Research at Dana-Farber

Cancer is a disease rooted in the DNA of our bodies' cells that profoundly affects the lives of individuals, communities, and all of society. At Dana-Farber, scientists are attacking cancer at every level: unraveling the most basic mechanisms in cells and tissues, discovering molecular targets for new "smart" drug therapies, harnessing the immune forces to combat cancer, and seeking to identify disparities in cancer incidence and treatment in diverse populations.

Below are some featured areas of Dana-Farber research:

Cancer Immunology

Cancer immunology represents one of the most dynamic frontiers in cancer research today. At Dana-Farber, the Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology (CIV) conducts foundational research on how the immune system interacts with cancer, translating mechanistic insights into novel therapeutic strategies. CIV investigators work to uncover why tumors escape immune detection and how those defenses can be broken down. They also study immune responses to viral infection, with research spanning HIV immunology and biology as well as antibody discovery to support vaccines and therapies against viral pathogens. As a hub for collaboration across Dana-Farber and Harvard Medical School, the department bridges discovery science and clinical application, develops cutting-edge tools, and advances treatments that are more precise, durable, and potentially curative.