In This Section

The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) is the first and largest cancer research organization dedicated to accelerating the conquest of cancer.

Mission

The mission of the American Association for Cancer Research is to prevent and cure cancer through:

  • Research
  • Education
  • Communication
  • Collaboration
  • Science Policy and Advocacy
  • Funding for Cancer Research

Through its programs and services, the AACR fosters research in cancer and related biomedical science; accelerates the dissemination of new research findings among scientists and others dedicated to the conquest of cancer; promotes science education and training; and advances the understanding of cancer etiology, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment throughout the world.

Annual Reports

Review the AACR Annual Reports for a summary of programs and initiatives that the AACR supports in pursuit of its mission.

Founding and History

The AACR was founded on May 7, 1907, in Washington, D.C., by a group of 11 physicians and scientists interested in research “to further the investigation and spread the knowledge of cancer.” (Read more about the history of the AACR.)

Governance

Financial Information

The AACR and the AACR Foundation are 501(c)(3) public charities as determined by the Internal Revenue Service. The AACR provides transparency to assure its members and donors that their contributions are wisely used. The AACR directs 88 cents of every dollar raised to support cancer research through grants, fellowships, scientific education, and information for cancer patients and their families.

AACR Members

  • The AACR has more than 58,000 members residing in 141 countries and territories.
  • Members include laboratory, translational, and clinical researchers; other health care professionals; and cancer advocates.
  • Membership includes 289 Fellows of the AACR Academy; 56 are Nobel laureates.

Programs and Initiatives

Location

  • The AACR is headquartered in Philadelphia, with offices in Boston; Washington, D.C.; and Toronto, Canada.
  • Contact the AACR.