Rüdiger Hehlmann is a distinguished German physician–scientist and one of the world’s leading figures in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) research. He is Professor Emeritus of Medicine at Heidelberg University and a founding leader of the European LeukemiaNet (ELN). Prof. Hehlmann founded the German CML Study Group and led multiple randomized clinical trials that fundamentally transformed CML prognosis and survival. He also established the German Competence Network for Acute and Chronic Leukemias and, in 2002, co-founded the European LeukemiaNet, which developed internationally adopted standards for leukemia diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment. ELN recommendations are now global reference standards.
Prof. Hehlmann has received numerous international honors, including the John Goldman Prize, Paul Martini Prize, Wilhelm Warner Prize, and EHA Education and Mentoring Award. His career has been defined by building durable international collaborations and translating scientific discovery into improved outcomes for patients with leukemia worldwide.
The 100 Most Influential People in Oncology in 2025 recognizes the changemakers in cancer care who have helped shape current practice in oncology and continue to drive innovation and research towards better outcomes, advocacy, philanthropy, leadership and education. For the many deserving individuals not mentioned in this list, we will continue to acknowledge, honor and elevate your voices in our daily publications from across the world.
See the full list of The 100 Influential People in Oncology in 2025 and stay tuned for the results of special category nominations to be announced.
