Written primarily for mid-to-upper level undergraduates, this primer will introduce students to topics at the forefront of the subject that are being applied to probe biological problems, or to address the most pressing issues facing society. These topics will include those that form the cornerstone of contemporary research, helping students to make the transition to active researcher. This primer provides an overview of the complex processes underpinning cancer development and progression along with a summary of cancer treatment strategies, emphasising the development of targeted molecular therapies and the opportunities they provide. It takes a contemporary and integrated approach, encompassing debates on genetics, epigenetics, and cancer addictions, and highlighting the remaining challenges and future research directions to advance the field.