Bakhos Tannous

As an innovative translational Cancer Biologist, I bring extensive expertise in immuno-oncology, T cell engagers, and small molecule drug discovery. My background spans target identification, hit-to-lead and lead optimization, and pre-IND candidate selection, with a focus on small molecule, antibody-based therapeutics, and gene and cell therapy. I currently serve as Executive Director, Head of Rare Cancers Discovery at AstraZeneca, where I lead cross-functional efforts to advance novel therapies for patients with rare cancers—an area of significant unmet medical need, including brain tumors. In parallel, I co-lead clinical development efforts for rare cancer programs at Alexion Pharmaceuticals, where I collaborate closely with cross-disciplinary teams to design and guide early and late-phase clinical trials, define translational strategies, and accelerate the development of targeted therapies for underserved patient populations. This dual role allows me to bridge discovery and clinical execution, with the goal of delivering innovative treatments to patients as efficiently and impactfully as possible My work in therapeutic discovery, translational medicine, biomarker analysis, and clinical development has positioned me as an entrepreneur and key opinion leader (KOL) in theranostics, where I leverage my interdisciplinary expertise to drive innovative solutions in oncology. With a strong track record of research, translational science, and clinical innovation—as well as mentorship and cross-sector collaboration—I have received several prestigious awards recognizing my contributions as a scientist, mentor, and innovator. My previous role as a Professor and Neuroscientist/Neuro-oncologist at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School further strengthened my foundation in cancer biology, molecular imaging, as well as drug development and delivery, and deepened my engagement in translational research and early-stage clinical development aimed at bringing novel therapies from bench to bedside. I thrive in diverse, fast-paced environments and am deeply passionate about accelerating the discovery and clinical development of life-changing cancer therapies through scientific excellence, translational insight, and collaborative leadership.