As part of the Inside the Synergy Projects 2026 series, this edition highlights two collaborative projects that aim to improve how cancer is detected. From helping surgeons distinguish tumour tissue more accurately to revealing the earliest changes that lead to hereditary breast cancer, both collaborations seek to support better decisions throughout the patient journey.

Prof. dr. Henk Verheul, Chair of Oncode’s Clinical Advisory Board, reflects on the role of the Clinical Proof-of-Concept programme in helping researchers validate promising cancer discoveries in patients earlier and with a clearer view of clinical need.

Two collaborative projects supported through the Oncode Synergy Projects 2026 programme are exploring why some immune cells are exceptionally effective at fighting cancer while others lose their ability to respond. Together, they could help shape the next generation of cancer immunotherapies.

How can patients play a meaningful role in fundamental cancer research? Researchers and patient representatives reflect on the value of collaboration and why it matters.

Cancer research often takes place behind closed laboratory doors, in images, models and experiments that rarely reach the public. With Tiny Revelations, Professor Anne Rios wants to change that.

Oncode researcher Megan Farrell has received a Veni grant to study how signals from surrounding tissue affect immune cell activity.

Evaluation confirms that Oncode Institute is a proven infrastructure that connects fundamental cancer research with value for patients, healthcare, science and the economy.

As Managing Director, Bertholt helps guide Oncode's long-term direction while supporting the people and collaborations that make its work possible. In this Employee Spotlight, he shares what drives his work, the projects that inspire him most and the experiences outside the office that help him recharge.

Oncode Institute congratulates Prof. René Bernards on receiving the People’s Republic of China International Science and Technology Cooperation Award.

The GLOW study shows that Whole Genome Sequencing can support treatment decisions for recurrent glioblastoma while highlighting the challenges of translating genomic insights into clinical care.

The Oncode Impact Foundation, a joint initiative of Oncode Accelerator Foundation and Oncode Institute, launched today. It uses philanthropy to fund the development of new treatment options for cancer patients through the so-called ‘valley of death’: the crucial phase in which promising scientific breakthroughs often falter and fail to reach patients.

Researchers led by Oncode Investigator Nitika Taneja have uncovered how cells reorganise the structure of their DNA to protect it when replication is disrupted. The findings, published in Nature, provide new insight into a fundamental process that helps maintain genome stability.

Oncode Investigators Leila Akkari and Puck Knipscheer have been elected as EMBO Members, recognising their outstanding scientific achievements and contributions to the life sciences.

In its Annual Report 2025, published today, Oncode Institute shows how excellent fundamental cancer research, collaboration and valorisation together drive impact for patients, society and the economy. The number of people living with cancer continues to rise, pressure on healthcare systems is increasing, and the need for effective and affordable diagnostics and treatments is growing. At the same time, the Netherlands is home to world-class cancer research. The challenge is to translate that knowledge faster and more effectively into applications that reach patients.

Oncode Investigator Jurgen Marteijn has been awarded an ERC Advanced Grant for his project GeneGuard, which will investigate how cells detect, signal and resolve transcription stress caused by DNA damage.