In 1982, the Purdue University Institute for Cancer Research (PICR) was established as an National Cancer Institute (NCI) basic science cancer center. The PICR, previously known as the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research was founded 1978.

The Center’s mission focuses on basic discovery – discovery that is the foundation through which the Center fosters innovative cancer solutions. Notably, the Center not only supports basic discovery but also facilitates discovery application and, where possible, positions discoveries for transfer to the public domain. PICR is one of seven cancer centers that only conduct laboratory research and do not provide patient care.