Academic History

Benjamin Besse, MD, PhD, is a Professor of Medical Oncology at Paris-Saclay University, Paris, France, and the Director of Clinical Research at the Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France. After earning a medical degree from Paris Medical School, he completed a residency and fellowship in medical oncology at Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France, and a doctoral fellowship in molecular biology at Institute Català d’Oncologia, Barcelona, Spain. Following this he earned a PhD in oncogenesis from Paris-Saclay University.

His research integrates clinical trials with biomarker discovery and molecular diagnosis, aiming to personalize treatments and improve patient outcomes. Prof. Besse has released over 400 peer-reviewed articles and contributes to global oncology initiatives, serving on key committees within the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) and other international organizations. Prof. Besse is also Chair of the Scientific Council of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC).

Speaking on innovations in thoracic oncology and biomarker-driven approaches

Prof. Besse specializes in the development of novel therapeutic strategies, including targeted therapies and immunotherapy, for lung cancer and other thoracic malignancies. He leads multiple clinical trials investigating next-generation therapies for lung cancer, mesothelioma, and thymic tumours. His research emphasizes biomarker-driven approaches, including liquid biopsy and molecular profiling in treatment selection. He actively collaborates with global research networks to transform scientific advancements into clinical practice, shaping the future of lung cancer treatment.