US

Ugur Sahin

Ugur Sahin, M.D.


Professor for Translational Oncology and Immunology

Professional Overview


Ugur Sahin is a highly accomplished medical professional and academic leader, recognized for his expertise in translational oncology and immunology. As a Professor at the University Medical Center Mainz, he drives pioneering research and innovative approaches to cancer treatment. Sahin's multifaceted career combines senior leadership roles, entrepreneurial ventures, and impactful scientific contributions.

Experience Summary



Current Role


Since 2014, Ugur Sahin has served as a Professor for Translational Oncology and Immunology at the University Medical Center Mainz. In this capacity, he oversees cutting-edge research projects, leads interdisciplinary teams, and translates scientific discoveries into tangible advancements in cancer diagnostics and therapies. Sahin also holds various leadership positions within the University Medical Center, leveraging his expertise to drive institutional growth and strategic initiatives.

Concurrently, Sahin is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of BioNTech SE, a pioneering biotechnology company he co-founded in 2008. Under his visionary leadership, BioNTech has emerged as a global leader in the development of personalized cancer immunotherapies and, more recently, innovative mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines.

Career Progression


Ugur Sahin's distinguished career trajectory reflects his deep commitment to advancing the field of translational oncology and immunology. Prior to his current roles, he co-founded TRON-Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center Mainz, where he served as the Managing Director from 2010 to 2019. Sahin also co-founded GANYMED Pharmaceuticals AG and served as the Head of its Scientific Advisory Board from 2008 to 2016.

Earlier in his career, Sahin held positions as a Visiting Scientist at the Department for Experimental Immunology at the University Hospital Zurich and as a Physician and Scientist at the Saarland University Medical Center and Saarland University Faculty of Medicine.

Academic Background


Ugur Sahin holds a medical degree (M.D.) from the University of Cologne, where he specialized in internal medicine and hematology/oncology. His academic credentials and research contributions have solidified his reputation as a leading authority in his field.

Areas of Expertise


  • Translational oncology and immunology

  • Cancer diagnostics and therapeutics

  • Personalized medicine and immunotherapy

  • mRNA technology and vaccine development

  • Entrepreneurship and biotechnology innovation

  • Interdisciplinary research and team leadership


Professional Impact


Ugur Sahin's groundbreaking work has had a profound impact on the field of oncology and immunology. His pioneering research on personalized cancer vaccines and mRNA-based therapies has led to the development of innovative treatment approaches that hold the potential to transform cancer care. Additionally, Sahin's leadership in driving the rapid development and global distribution of the BioNTech-Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine has played a pivotal role in the worldwide pandemic response.

Conclusion


Ugur Sahin's multifaceted career exemplifies his exceptional expertise, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing the frontiers of medical science. As a renowned Professor, seasoned entrepreneur, and influential industry figure, Sahin continues to drive transformative change in the fields of translational oncology and immunology, making significant contributions to the betterment of human health.