The TAM and CPI teams recently gathered in Washington, D.C., for a night none of us will ever forget—an evening dedicated to honoring one of the most influential figures in modern cancer research: Dr. Francesco “Franco” Marincola, our Chief Scientific Officer.
This year, Dr. Marincola received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC)—one of the highest honors in the field. The award recognizes not only a career defined by groundbreaking innovation, but also the compassion, humility, and leadership that Franco brings to the mission of curing cancer.
And that mission is what brought all of us together.
A Celebration of Science, Humanity, and Vision
Throughout the evening, leaders, collaborators, scientists, and friends shared emotional reflections about Franco’s impact—not just on the field of immunotherapy, but on their lives.
One sentiment echoed again and again:
Franco isn’t just a legendary scientist. He is the heart of this mission.
From the stage, team members spoke about how he brings people together, how he elevates everyone around him, and how his relentless pursuit of excellence sets the foundation for everything we do at The TAM Center.
“He deserves a lifetime achievement award not just for his work in science, but for who he is as a person—and who he has been to everybody in this room.”
“We’re blessed to have Franco as our Chief Scientific Officer. It’s crazy to me—we’ve got the legend himself.”
“Thank you for taking us on this journey toward one goal: to cure cancer.”
Colleagues from around the world shared heartfelt stories about his mentorship, generosity, and revolutionary contributions to immunotherapy. Many described Franco as a once-in-a-generation thinker—one whose mind pushes boundaries, but whose spirit brings people together.
One speaker said it best:
“What a wonderful human being who brings other wonderful human beings together.”
A Legacy That Inspires the Future of Cancer Care
Dr. Marincola’s scientific leadership has shaped modern immunotherapy in profound ways, redefining how we understand the tumor microenvironment, patient variability, and therapeutic response. His work has helped lay the foundation for innovations that continue to guide cancer research today.
But what makes his impact truly extraordinary is the way he pairs brilliance with empathy.
He listens more than he speaks.
He elevates the people around him.
He believes deeply—and fiercely—in the possibility of curing cancer.
And that belief fuels our team every single day.
As one colleague said with emotion:
“I didn’t do anything for him in my life. He did everything for me. That is the sign of true genius.”
Leading the Charge at The TAM Center
At The TAM Center, Franco guides a team working at the cutting edge of translational medicine. Our shared mission is singular and bold:
To cure cancer.
Through advanced immunotherapy research, rapid feedback loops in clinical application, and novel diagnostic and therapeutic development, Franco’s leadership continues to accelerate the pace at which we learn, adapt, and innovate.
“The most exciting thing about working with TAM is the quicker feedback loop—between therapeutics, effects, learning, and improvement.”
This is the future of personalized cancer care—and Franco is one of the architects shaping that future.
A Moment of Celebration. A Lifetime of Impact.
As the night came to a close, the message was clear: this honor is well-deserved, long overdue, and only the beginning.
Franco’s achievements span decades—but his vision continues to push far into the horizon.
“Of course, you have much more to do—and that’s why everybody is here today.”
We couldn’t be more proud, more grateful, or more inspired.
Congratulations, Franco — and thank you.
Your work has changed the world.
Your leadership is transforming the future.
Your heart keeps this mission alive.
We are honored to walk this path with you.
Learn More About The TAM Center
To explore our work in immunotherapy, translational medicine, and next-generation cancer research, visit: https://thetamcenter.com