Based at the Lambe Institute, NUI Galway, the National Breast Cancer Research Institute is a national charity that funds a comprehensive research programme at the National University of Ireland, Galway lead by Professor Michael Kerin.

Breast cancer is the highest cause of death in middle aged women in Ireland. Research is at the core of finding out more about this disease with 1 in 9 Irish women developing breast cancer during their lifetime. The role of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute is unique, as its research can help to ascertain the causes and factors that influence breast cancer and therefore help to develop effective screening, treatments and medication to combat it. The research the charity fund is patient-focused, involves clinicians and scientists and contributes to better outcomes. Translational research, i.e. bringing lab findings to the clinical setting, is a long-term commitment and is expensive.