The Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre (ACSRC) was established in 1956 by the Auckland Cancer Society (now Cancer Society Auckland Northland) as the Cancer Research Laboratory (CRL). Under the leadership of Dr Bruce Cain, the CRL undertook studies in seeking active anti-tumour agents from plants. Dr Cain's work was initially carried out in the School of Chemical Sciences of the University of Auckland. The research subsequently shifted to temporary quarters, firstly at the ex-army hospital at Cornwall Park and secondly to the DSIR Plant Diseases Division at Mt Albert. Discussions between the society and Professor Peter Herdson, foundation professor of the Department of Pathology in the University, led to an initiative to locate the CRL in the Pathology Building in the Medical School complex. In 1979, Dr Cain was made an honorary professor by the University and the CRL moved into its current location. An agreement was signed between the University and the society whereby the CRL was attached administratively to the Department of Pathology and a rental was paid to offset the cost of utilities and maintenance.