Breakthrough Cancer Research

Showcasing Science, Innovation and Hope in the Future of Cancer Care

Designing a powerful national exhibition that celebrates Irish innovation and honours the human stories behind cancer research.

Client

Sector

Health & Science Communication, Education

Type of work

Exhibition Design, Spatial Branding, Fitout & Installation

Departments involved

Design, Events, Production

Year

2025

What we did

Designed, built, and delivered an immersive exhibition

The Real Nation Design team collaborated closely with Breakthrough to ensure every panel, graphic, and exhibit conveyed strength, hope, and determination, while the Events and Production team managed the full build, from venue sourcing and contractor coordination to final installation.

Exhibition space showing a survivor portrait with a display case containing a personal object.

Exhibit table showing panels explaining how genetic mutations cause cancer, with diagrams and educational displays.

Red anatomical human torso model displayed in a modern museum gallery as part of a breakthrough cancer research exhibition

wide photo of 365 photos capturing a person’s day-by-day journey through a year of cancer treatment.

Exhibit display showing cancer researchers and innovations in early cancer detection and testing at Breakthrough Cancer Research.

Portrait of a cancer survivor alongside displayed personal objects in the Breakthrough Cancer Research exhibition.

The Challenge

Adapting a global exhibition for an Irish audience

Real Nation partnered with Breakthrough Cancer Research to design and deliver a powerful national exhibition exploring the past, present, and future of cancer research. Originally developed by the Science Museum Group (UK) and specially adapted for an Irish audience, the exhibition highlights key Irish contributions to cancer science while sharing the deeply human stories behind the research.

The outcome / impact

Proven Results Backed by Measurable Achievements

The result was a powerful, immersive exhibition that  blended science, personal testimony, and design to engage thousands of visitors in Dublin’s city centre. The exhibition not only showcased global and Irish advances in cancer research but also gave voice to deeply human stories.

Delivered seamlessly despite tight timelines, it became a landmark cultural moment for Breakthrough Cancer Research, driving awareness, sparking conversation, and inspiring visitors to reflect and connect with the future of cancer care.

Bookings in first 6 weeks

Feel more knowledgeable about cancer after their visit

More optimistic about cancer treatment options

Now understand how cancer research improves care

Our Work

Explore our Case Studies

DesignEducationEvents

Our World Awards from Irish Aid

Rebrand the programme to create a fresher, more engaging appeal that resonates with a wider…
CognationDesignProduction

AIB CX

To engage a large, cross-functional workforce through a shared learning experience that felt relevant, energising…
DesignEducation

Laya Super Troopers

Children often miss out on practical health education that extends beyond the classroom. Inspired by…
DesignEducationEventsProject Management

Tesco Ireland

Tesco Ireland wanted to expand its Stronger Starts community initiative by creating a hands-on cooking…
DesignEducationEvents

AIB Future Sparks

AIB wanted to evolve their youth engagement strategy and build on their legacy of supporting…
DesignEducation

Food Dudes

Bord Bia and the Department of Agriculture sought to deliver a national healthy eating initiative…
DesignEducationEvents

Heineken Ahhh-cademy

A Post-Covid fueled, 40% drop in experienced bartenders, lead to inconsistent pint quality across outlets. With…