Welcome to the NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre

The NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) is part of the NIHR and hosted by Cambridge University Hospitals in partnership with the University of Cambridge to deliver ground-breaking research that benefits patients.

Welcome to NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre

Covering 13 different health themes and supported by world-leading experts, our research helps deliver better medicines and treatments for the NHS. Find out more about the research we support. 

Welcome to the NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre

We put patients at the heart of our research. Help us to make sure research meets patients’ needs. There are lots of ways you can get involved – find out more today.

Welcome to the NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre

We have state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities to support research delivery: all located on a single site just one hour from London. Find out more about the facilities on site.

Welcome to the NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre

Our research is strengthened through collaboration and partnership with industry – from small biotechs to multinational pharmaceuticals. Find out more about our work with industry. 

Latest news

Landmark ‘Pill-On-A-Thread’ cancer screening trial welcomes first participants

A clinical trial of a “pill-on-a-thread” test, which will decide if it becomes a new screening programme for oesophageal cancer, has welcomed its first participant.Read more

NIHR Cambridge theme lead elected to National Academy of Medicine

Professor David Rowitch, NIHR Cambridge Antenatal, Maternal and Child Health theme lead, has been elected to the National Academy of Medicine.Read more

NMAPs Pre-application for support funding now open

Nurses, midwives and allied health professionals (NMAPs) who want to join an NIHR career development scheme are being offered the chance to apply for a pre-application support fund.Read more

Our research

Baby hand - NIHR Cambridge BRC image
Antenatal, Maternal and Child Health

Researchers in this theme will be looking at finding better ways to predict and prevent stillbirth and infant mortality. Read more

Cancer theme - CRUK photo
Cancer

Researchers in this theme will focus on improving early detection of cancer and use of data to drive personalised treatments for patients. Read more

Patient having their blood test taken at NIHR Cambridge CRF - NIHR Cambridge BRC image
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Disease

This theme will investigate heart and lung diseases and how using artificial intelligence (AI) could identify patterns in data to improve diagnosis. Read more

Staff in front of monitor displaying data looking at sample results - NIHR Cambridge BRC image
Data Science and Population Health

Researchers will explore the use of population data to improve early detection health conditions to change outcomes. Read more

Nurses with clinical equipment - Image from Cambridge University Health Partners
Devices and Advanced Therapies

Developed in line with the Life Sciences Vision 2021, this theme aims to expedite patient access to new treatments & technologies.Read more

Genomics lab - NIHR Cambridge BRC image
Genomic Medicine

Working with our partners, including patients, this theme aims to drive adoption of genomics into everyday healthcare.Read more

Patient and WBIC scanner - NIHR Cambridge BRC image
Imaging

This theme aims to benefit patients, including those with heart disease, stroke or cancer, while reducing NHS costs. Read more

Operating theatre - image from Cambridge University Health Partners
Immunity, Inflammation and Transplantation

This theme will explore ways to develop personalised treatments for patients with immune disorders and improve outcomes of organ transplants. Read more

Microscope with samples - NIHR Cambridge BRC image
Infectious Disease Threats

Cambridge has a strong track record in microbiology and infectious diseases research, from basic science to clinical studies. Read more

Young patients taking part in research at the NIHR Cambridge CRF - NIHR Cambridge BRC image
Mental Health

Researchers will study the links between physical and mental health conditions, as well as improve therapies and treatments. Read more

Patient with nurse in dementia clinic - NIHR Cambridge BRC image
Neurodegenerative Disease and Dementia

This theme aims to develop treatments for all dementias, as well as creating new diagnostic tools to identify the disease earlier.Read more

Patient and clinician in Cambridge Vision Lab - NIHR Cambridge BRC image
Neuroscience

Neurological disorders affect 1 in 6 in the UK and are complex and highly variable, with limited treatment opportunities. Read more

Patient having a metabolic test - Image from NIHR Cambridge CRF
Nutrition, Obesity, Metabolism and Endocrinology

Our research aims are to improve the lives and health of people with obesity, diabetes and related metabolic and endocrine diseases. Read more