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"The PI Innovation Award recognizes scientific research in the form of doctoral theses as a driver for innovative solutions. The transfer of knowledge from research to practice is an important criterion for the award, as is its relevance beyond science. Dr. Wagner’s work meets both criteria in an exceptional way," said Dr. Steffen Schreiber, Director Global Innovation and Scouting at PI and member of the committee, explaining the reasons for the award.

" Awarding the prize was particularly difficult this year, as many submissions met the criteria described above in a special way. The high medical relevance of Dr. Wagner’s work was ultimately the decisive factor," added Prof. Dr. Thilo Stehle, Dean of the Faculty of Sciences. “Our congratulations go to Dr. Wagner, and on behalf of the faculty I would also like to thank all 11 participants for their submissions.”

Dr. Wagner’s research centers on the development of new kinase inhibitors—a class of drugs that interfere with cancer cell metabolism. His thesis focused on identifying new pharmacological treatments for small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), two aggressive forms of cancer that currently offer limited treatment options, particularly in advanced stages.

In the course of his research, 300 different compounds were synthesized and tested. One compound emerged as a promising preclinical candidate with a gentler mechanism of action and strong efficacy, as demonstrated in multiple in vivo models.