Mission & Values
Our Mission
The mission of Fred Hutch is the elimination of cancer and related diseases as causes of human suffering and death. The Hutch conducts research of the highest standards to improve prevention and treatment of cancer and related diseases.
Our 40-plus years on the front lines of cancer research have led to cures for some types of the disease — and have offered proof that the immune system can stop others. Propelled by our ongoing commitment to excellent science and creative innovation, we’re making major inroads in the fight against cancer.
Strategic Priorities
Our interdisciplinary teams conduct exceptional, high-impact science to achieve our mission. We’re extending our reach to achieve breakthroughs and further discoveries in the following areas:
Blood Stem Cell Transplantation
and Immunotherapy
Cancer Risk Factors, Causes, Prevention and Outcomes
Vaccine Development and
Virus-Associated Cancers
Molecular Underpinnings of Cancer
Tumor-Specific Translational Research
Supporting the Priorities
Because lifesaving team science doesn’t happen in a vacuum, we support our strategic priorities through culture, infrastructure, partnerships and clinical excellence.
High-Performance Culture
Clinical Excellence
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure
Engaging Partners
High-Performance Culture
A diverse, inclusive, high-performance culture is essential to ending cancer and related diseases. We invest in our talented people to enable Fred Hutch teams to excel in realizing our ambitious vision.
Statement of Values
Hutch faculty, managers and staff all have important roles in creating an environment that exemplifies the following values:
Scientific Excellence — Fred Hutch's first commitment is to excellence in scientific work. We have a high standard of ethics and integrity in conducting our research.
Integrity — Integrity infuses everything we do, from conducting research to operating a world-class organization. It is central to the way we govern the organization, develop our staff and steward donor funds.
Respect — We respect the contributions that each individual makes to ensure the success of our science. We honor the contribution of patients and study participants to our mission and commit to the highest standards of care, integrity and confidentiality in our services to them. We respect individuality and recognize the strength that comes from diversity of perspectives and backgrounds.
Openness — We recognize the importance of sharing information and allowing for the free exchange of ideas between staff throughout the center regardless of position or affiliation with outside interests. We strive to have decisions made by those closest to the issue, acknowledging the value of first-hand experience.
Innovation — We recognize the importance of creativity and responsible risk-taking. We aim to minimize bureaucracy and maintain focus on the mission. Our systems and policies support scientific achievement.
A Commitment to Diversity
Lifesaving research demands more than innovation and dedication. It requires curiosity, creativity, and fresh and varied perspectives. That’s why diversity is a core Fred Hutch value that is integral to our work.
We were the first U.S. cancer center to pledge commitment to CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion, and we cultivate a workplace that welcomes diverse perspectives and experiences. Our director of diversity and inclusion — in partnership with an executive council of senior leaders and an employee advisory group — leads our efforts to build a fully inclusive and informed workforce.
Since 2013, Hutch United has been promoting the success of underrepresented minority scientists at Fred Hutch. With the goal of fostering a diverse community, it provides important mentoring, fellowships and networking opportunities.
Fred Hutch is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to workforce diversity. We strongly encourage applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans.
Educating the Next Generation
The future of science rests in the hands of the next generation of researchers. Fred Hutch helps budding investigators — including high school students, secondary school teachers, college and graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows — prepare to make tomorrow's breakthroughs. Our wide-ranging education and training programs develop scientists at all academic levels, from early high school through early career.