RWJBarnabas Health, together with Rutgers Cancer Institute, the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, have launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming cancer care across the state. At the heart of this effort is the newly opened Jack & Sheryl Morris Cancer Center—the first and only freestanding, comprehensive cancer hospital in New Jersey, and one of just 13 such facilities in the United States. This state-of-the-art facility is the cornerstone of a $1.5 billion statewide oncology investment designed to improve access to high-quality, research-driven, patient-centered cancer care.
The Morris Cancer Center exemplifies innovation through its integration of clinical care and cutting-edge research within a single, patient-focused facility. Spanning 12 stories and 520,000 square feet, the center is connected via a skybridge to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and Rutgers Cancer Institute, fostering seamless collaboration among multidisciplinary teams. It features 96 inpatient beds, a dedicated surgical floor, and extensive outpatient services, including 88 infusion bays and 80 exam rooms for both adult and pediatric patients. These resources dramatically expand the scope of care available to patients within New Jersey, eliminating the need to travel to neighboring states for advanced comprehensive cancer treatment.
One of the most compelling aspects of the Morris Cancer Center is its commitment to translating research into clinical practice through a robust infrastructure that supports clinical trials and advanced laboratory research. Ten new research teams are housed on-site, working to expedite the process of turning scientific discoveries into viable treatments. This “bench-to-bedside-and-back” approach accelerates the development and deployment of novel therapies, including cellular therapies and sophisticated radiation techniques, directly benefiting patients and improving outcomes.
The center also incorporates advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, including four linear accelerators, brachytherapy, and imaging modalities such as CT, MRI, and mammography. These tools enable precise diagnosis and highly targeted treatments that enhance effectiveness while minimizing side effects. Importantly, the hospital has been designed around a philosophy of whole-person care. Supportive amenities such as massage and exercise therapy, a wellness garden, and thoughtfully curated art installations promote healing in a nurturing environment. A unique, “Jersey Shore”-themed pediatric clinic further underscores the commitment to compassionate, child-friendly care.
This new facility is more than a hospital—it is a comprehensive hub of innovation, compassion, and community partnerships. As part of its broader oncology investment, RWJBarnabas Health is also building two additional cancer care facilities: the Melchiorre Cancer Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston and the Specialty and Cancer Care Center on the Vogel Medical Campus in Tinton Falls. These centers will function as northern and southern hubs, offering high-quality, outpatient cancer care and diagnostic services, thereby enhancing accessibility for patients across the entire state.
Through the partnership with Rutgers Cancer InstituteRWJBarnabas Health is ensuring that patients have access to the nation’s most advanced cancer care and research. This strategic collaboration bridges academic research and clinical excellence, positioning New Jersey as a leader in cancer innovation.
In its unwavering commitment to transform the future of cancer care, RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute are setting a new standard—one built on innovation, integration, and compassion. The Jack & Sheryl Morris Cancer Center stands as a powerful symbol of this vision, offering patients and families not just advanced treatment, but hope and healing. Together, through bold investment in people, research, and infrastructure, they are not just fighting cancer—they are reshaping the journey toward survivorship.
