We began to understand the origin and development of cancer diseases in the 1950s when it became clear that the genetic make-up of cells, the genome, consists of DNA. Georg and Eva Klein were among the first to probe the topic and their research was soon to receive international attention. The working spouses, Eva and Georg Klein, led the work of the Department of Tumor Biology at Karolinska Institutet for nearly 40 years. During this time, some one hundred researchers have received doctorates under their supervision, many of which – including the former KI President, Hans Wigzell – have achieved top positions in international cancer research. Several hundred visiting scientists from abroad have also turned to Georg and Eva for their postgraduate education.

The Georg and Eva Klein Foundation was established by scientists at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC) at Karolinska Institutet in conjunction with the Kleins' 80th birthdays in 2005.

The purpose of the Foundation is to “Support medical research in the spirit of Georg and Eva Klein”. The Foundation gathers the resources needed to support research in immunology, cell biology, infectious diseases and cancer.

Georg Klein recieved a grant for 340 000 USD from The Cancer Research Institute and The Concern Foundation, both located in the U.S.A. 16 people have recieved either a full stipendium or a stipendium for a limited period from these sources.

Georgs latest book is entitled "Jag återvänder aldrig" and was published in June 2011.