Ton Schumacher was bestowed the 2024 ESMO Award for Immuno-Oncology
The ESMO Award for Immuno-Oncology 2024 was presented to Ton N. Schumacher in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the field of cancer immunology.
Schumacher, a leading figure in cancer research, is a Principal Investigator at The Netherlands Cancer Institute and Oncode Institute, and a Professor of Immunotechnology at Leiden University, Netherlands.
Schumacher’s pioneering research focuses on developing novel technologies to measure and manipulate T cell responses, which has deepened our understanding of how T cells can recognize and target human cancer cells. Among his key contributions are his groundbreaking studies on cancer neoantigens—which arise from DNA damage in cancer cells—and his influential work on neoadjuvant immune checkpoint blockade, a now widely explored therapeutic strategy in immuno-oncology.
He will deliver his award lecture at the ESMO Immuno-Oncology Congress 2024 on Wednesday, 11 December 2024, during the Opening Session.
“In a way, our findings show that the immune response in cancer patients can be strengthened; there is more on the cancer cells that makes them foreign that we can exploit.”
Dr. Schumacher is also known for developing advanced techniques that significantly enhance our ability to identify and monitor anti-cancer T cell responses, both before and after treatment. His work has had a profound impact on the field, particularly in the area of immune checkpoint blockade and neoantigen discovery, crucial for advancing cancer immunotherapy.
Throughout his career, Dr. Schumacher has received numerous prestigious awards, including the 2016 William B. Coley Award for Distinguished Research in Tumor Immunology, and he was elected to the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the field.
Schumacher has also received some other awards, including the Queen Wilhelmina Cancer Research Award, Meyenburg Cancer Research Award, William B. Coley Award, and the Louis Jeantet Prize for Medicine, recognizing his significant impact on cancer immunotherapy.
In addition to his research achievements, Dr. Schumacher plays an active role in shaping the future of cancer immunotherapy through leadership positions. He serves on the Scientific Advisory Council of the Cancer Research Institute (CRI), the CRI-SU2C Dream Team, and is a key participant in CRI’s collaboration with the Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, focusing on the development of personalized anti-cancer vaccines.
Dr. Schumacher’s innovative work continues to pave the way for more effective cancer treatments and has solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the field of immuno-oncology.
About ESMO Immuno-Oncology Congress 2024
The ESMO Immuno-Oncology Congress 2024 will take place from 11 to 13 December 2024 in Geneva, Switzerland, with an online option as well. This event will feature an in-depth educational programme highlighting the latest developments in immuno-oncology, including insights into immunotherapies, new research findings, and treatment management.
Participants will have the opportunity to hear from experts, present their own research, and engage with a community of professionals working to advance cancer treatment. Topics will include treatment options, toxicities, and interpreting the latest clinical data, all aimed at fostering greater understanding and collaboration in the field of immuno-oncology.
The congress provides a valuable platform for clinicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals to share knowledge, learn from leaders in the field, and connect with others working to improve cancer care. It’s an essential event for anyone dedicated to advancing cancer immunotherapy and improving patient outcomes.
Find more about the ESMO Immuno-Oncology Congress 2024 at oncodaily.com
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