The Cancer Research Center of Marseille (CRCM) will reach a major milestone with the FightCancer project, a new 3,000 m² Inserm research facility scheduled for completion in 2026.

This future research and clinical translation facility addresses a major challenge in oncology: improving our understanding of and ability to combat pancreatic cancer, one of the cancers with the poorest prognosis, for which patient outcomes remain limited despite significant medical advances. Identified as a priority in France’s 2021–2030 National Cancer Control Strategy, pancreatic cancer represents a critical medical and scientific challenge that requires progress in both diagnosis and treatment.

To address this challenge, the project will build on the scientific and medical expertise of CRCM teams affiliated with Inserm, CNRS, Aix-Marseille University, and the Paoli-Calmettes Institute (IPC). Researchers will investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying pancreatic cancer, as well as its complex microenvironment—particularly its immune and stromal components—through integrated approaches supported by cutting-edge technologies and expertise.

Strong Support from Europe through the ERDF

The success of the FightCancer project relies on significant European financial support. Through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the project has been awarded €734,000.

This funding contributes to European objectives aimed at:

• Strengthening research, technological development, and innovation;
• Enhancing research infrastructures and scientific excellence capacities;
• Expanding research activities in strategic fields with high societal impact.

In practical terms, this European support plays a key role in enabling the acquisition of the scientific equipment required for the new facility, which is essential for the deployment of its research activities.

Thanks to this investment, the project will establish a unique French center for fundamental and translational research dedicated to pancreatic cancer, with several key objectives:

• Deciphering the molecular mechanisms involved in therapeutic resistance;
• Improving our understanding of cancer recurrence;
• Accelerating the translation of scientific discoveries into clinical applications for the benefit of patients.

The ERDF contribution goes far beyond funding equipment. It serves as a strategic lever for providing researchers with state-of-the-art infrastructure, creating the conditions necessary for the development of tomorrow’s innovative cancer therapies.

Project Timeline

Building Completion

• Summer 2026

Relocation of Research Teams and Platforms

• Phase 1: First half of September 2026 (all floors except Level 2)
• Phase 2: Early 2027 (installation and commissioning of Level 2)

The FightCancer project highlights the importance of joint investments in public research and European support to address major health challenges and accelerate progress in the fight against cancer.