The centre houses 130 imaging researchers from a range of disciplines. It provides these scientists with the very latest in imaging technologies – including various kinds of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound and positron emission tomograph scanners – allowing scientists to image tumours and their biological features in a non-invasive way.

The CCI uses an approach called multi-modality imaging, where researchers combine different imaging techniques such as MRI and ultrasound – providing greater depth and breadth of knowledge than use of a single imaging technique alone.

A key focus of the CCI is to use molecular imaging techniques to precisely measure whether a cancer drug is hitting its intended protein target, and to measure whether the treatment is having its predicted effect. Doctors can use this information to see if tumours are responding to cancer treatments over time, and can adapt treatment accordingly – all without the need for multiple biopsies.