Melhem Scientific Announces Dr. Bakhos Tannous as Chair of the Scientific Board of Advisors

Melhem Scientific proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Bakhos Tannous as Chair of the Board of Advisors, marking a pivotal milestone in the organization’s global scientific mission.

Dr. Tannous is an internationally renowned scientist, educator, and visionary leader in biomedical research, particularly in cancer and brain tumor therapeutics. With over 150 peer-reviewed publications and review articles, he has built a distinctive legacy in advancing multidisciplinary teams to confront some of the most complex challenges in oncology—developing transformative diagnostic approaches and novel therapeutic strategies.

He formerly served as a Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School and held several leadership roles at the Massachusetts General Hospital, including Director of the Interdepartmental Neuroscience Center, the Experimental Therapeutics Unit, and the Postdoctoral Division. He was also a member of the Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center, Co-Director of the Molecular Neurogenetics Unit-East, and Director of the MGH Viral Vector Production Facility.

Dr. Tannous recently joined AstraZeneca as the Executive Director, Head of Rare Cancer Discovery, where he leads global innovation in oncology research.

His contributions have earned him an Honorary Degree from Harvard University, the Outstanding Investigator Award from the American Society for Gene and Cell Therapy, the Beirut Golden Award for Lifetime Achievement in Medicine, the National Cancer Institute Pathway to Independence Award, multiple Young Investigator Awards from the Society for Molecular Imaging, and numerous Excellence in Research, Leadership, Innovation, and Mentorship Awards.

He has served on review panels for the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Defense, and multiple national and international foundations, shaping the future of research, mentorship, and innovation.

With Dr. Tannous’s appointment, Melhem Scientific strengthens its global advisory leadership—advancing its mission to bridge research, impact human lives through innovation, and empower the next generation of scientists.

President Melhem shares:“Dr. Tannous has been more than a mentor, he has been the foundation upon which my scientific journey was built. His integrity, brilliance, and humanity have shaped who I am as a leader. Having him guide Melhem Scientific is not only an honor but a continuation of a mentorship that has transformed my life.”