Özlem Türeci Biography

Özlem Türeci is a German physician, scientist, and entrepreneur who co-founded the biotechnology company BioNTech in 2008. As BioNTech's chief medical officer since 2018, Türeci has played a pivotal role in the development of the first messenger RNA-based vaccine approved for use against COVID-19. Her contributions extend beyond vaccine development; since 2021, she has also served as Professor of Personalized Immunotherapy at the Helmholtz Institute for Translational Oncology and Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz.

Türeci's work primarily focuses on the identification and characterization of tumor-specific molecules to develop personalized therapeutic approaches for cancer, infectious diseases, and immune and nervous system disorders. Her early academic and research career was significantly shaped by her time at the University Medical Center Mainz, where she collaborated closely with her husband, Uğur Şahin, and their mentor, Christoph Huber, to establish the translational oncology institute, TRON.

In addition to her scientific and medical pursuits, Türeci has been instrumental in the entrepreneurial side of biotechnology. She co-founded Ganymed Pharmaceuticals, which developed zolbetuximab for treating esophageal and gastric cancer, and later sold the company for $1.4 billion. Her leadership at BioNTech has not only led to critical advancements in mRNA technology for cancer treatment but also positioned the company at the forefront of rapid vaccine development during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As a speaker, Özlem Türeci offers profound insights into the integration of science and entrepreneurship, the future of mRNA technology, and the role of personalized medicine in treating complex diseases. Her experience in leading high-stakes clinical trials and her strategic vision in biotechnological innovation provide invaluable perspectives for medical, scientific, and entrepreneurial audiences.

As a renowned expert and highly sought-after speaker, Özlem Türeci's expertise is in high demand. To book Özlem Türeci for your next event, conference, or workshop, please contact our speaker booking agency. Our experienced team will work closely with you to understand your specific needs and help secure Özlem Türeci's participation. With our professional guidance and seamless booking process, you can ensure a memorable and impactful experience for your audience. Don't miss the opportunity to engage your audience with Özlem Türeci's compelling insights and inspire positive change within your organization. Fill out the booking request form to take the first step in securing Özlem Türeci for your next speaking engagement.