What does translational cancer research mean to you? Is your perception of this subject a reflection of whether you are a basic research scientist or a clinician? Is this just another sure fire grant funding phrase, or is there something to be gained from engaging in translational research? Compare your views with those of Bruce Ponder, Fiona Watt, Duncan Odom and David Neal, our podcast panel from the new Cancer Research UK Cambridge Research Institute. This could be the Babel fish you've been looking for.