Lifetime Achievement in Basic Research

Dr. Ignacio Melero Bermejo

CIMA University of Navarra

The PharmaMar Foundation has awarded Dr. Ignacio Melero Bermejo for his distinguished career in translational research in cancer immunotherapy, focusing on strategies involving cells, genes, and monoclonal antibodies. His work in the field of co-stimulation of antitumor immune responses and the identification of biomarkers has been particularly noteworthy.

Ignacio Melero is the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award in Basic Research for his exceptional contributions to the field of oncological immunotherapy, highlighted by his pioneering discoveries in immune responses to cancer, the development of novel therapeutic strategies, and his leadership in translational research on cellular immunotherapy.

A Doctor of Immunology and Professor at the University of Navarra, Jesús Melero holds multiple roles, including Co-Director of the Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Senior Clinical Consultant in Medical Oncology at the Clínica Universidad de Navarra, and Co-Director at the Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA). He also holds the prestigious Kidani Chair of Oncology at the University of Oxford.

 

Among his most notable contributions are:

  • The pioneering identification of inhibitory receptors in human NK lymphocytes.
  • Demonstration of the phenomenon of immune ignorance to tumor antigens.
  • Discovery of the antitumor effect of agonist antibodies targeting the 4-1BB (CD137) receptor.
  • Leadership in innovative clinical trials, including cellular therapies with genetically modified dendritic cells.

 

Melero has been a key figure in the synergistic combination of immunostimulatory antibodies, which has led to the development of numerous clinical trials with global impact. Furthermore, his discoveries on the role of interleukin-8 as a biomarker and its implication in tumor immunosuppression have opened new treatment avenues.

 

With over 350 scientific publications and recognition as one of the most cited researchers in his field (Clarivate 2020-2024), he has authored influential papers in high-impact journals such as Nature, Science Translational Medicine, Cancer Cell, and Immunity. His research has contributed to significant clinical advances, including the approval of Nivolumab for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Throughout his career, he has received numerous accolades, including the Francisco Cobos Award, and has been conferred an honorary doctorate by the University of Buenos Aires. His commitment to innovation and his transformative impact solidify him as a key figure in cancer immunotherapy.