A series of 4-azaindole inhibitors of c-Met kinase is described. The postulated binding mode was confirmed by an X-ray crystal structure and series optimisation was performed on the basis of this structure. Future directions for series development are discussed. ... The SAR and X-ray crystal structure of a series of 4-azaindole inhibitors of c-Met kinase is reported. ... Members of the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family are attractive targets for cancer therapy as ...