Given the layered, evolutionary complexity of biological systems, it will not be possible to understand them comprehensively on the basis of hypothesis-driven research alone. Likewise, it will not be possible to do so solely through 'omic' studies of genes, proteins and other molecules in aggregate. The two modes of research are complementary and synergistic. The twin complexities of cancer biology and drug discovery demand such synergy as a basis for the next generation of oncopharmacomic research.