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Under the motto “22plusFuture,” the National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg celebrated its anniversary on May 13. The event offered the approximately 400 guests the opportunity to look back together on the development of NCT Heidelberg while also focusing on future prospects in research, medicine, and patient care.

The open-air ceremony was opened by Eva Winkler from the NCT Heidelberg Executive Board, who warmly welcomed the guests. Dirk Jäger, Director of NCT Heidelberg since 2005, then looked back on 22 years of NCT Heidelberg—from its beginnings to its current role as one of the leading centers of excellence in oncology.

A highlight was the keynote address by Alexander Eggermont of the Princess Máxima Center in Utrecht, the Netherlands. As a long-time colleague, he traced key milestones in the institution’s development before presenting current advances in neoadjuvant immunotherapy for solid tumors. The focus was on improved chances of cure combined with shorter treatment times and fewer surgical procedures—a paradigm shift that could significantly shape the future of cancer medicine.

Following this, the more than 30 “Points of Interest,” distributed throughout both buildings of the NCT Heidelberg, opened. They offered guests diverse insights into current research projects, clinical applications, and innovative care approaches. From “Check den Fleck” for early skin cancer detection to the isolation of strawberry DNA and Social Services Bingo—NCT Heidelberg staff and partners were available for discussions and brought the scientific work to life.

Despite adverse weather conditions with rain and wind during the official program, a lively and engaged atmosphere developed. The intensive exchange and the enthusiastic response from guests underscored the close connection with the NCT Heidelberg.

The celebration impressively showcased the diversity of topics, the breadth of scientific and clinical achievements, and the numerous collaborations that define the NCT Heidelberg. In particular, close collaboration across disciplines, institutions, and professional groups is what makes these achievements possible and forms the foundation for the further development of cancer medicine in Heidelberg.

More photos from the anniversary event can be found here.