Stefan Gross, Ph.D., Senior Director and Head of Biochemistry at Servier, has dedicated his career to advancing drug discovery, developing groundbreaking therapies from cellular discovery to approved patient treatments. With over 25 years in the industry, he played a crucial role in developing drugs that mark significant advancements in the treatment of hard-to-treat cancers. With extensive experience in several biotech startups, including launching Agios Pharmaceuticals as the second employee, and a key role in the development of Servier’s research facility, Stefan brings deep scientific expertise and a proven track record of advancing cutting-edge therapies to Servier.
Stefan’s career path is marked by a deep interest in the biochemical mechanisms of diseases and a relentless drive to translate scientific discoveries into life-changing therapies. His career in the pharmaceutical industry began in biotech startups, where he sharpened his expertise in oncology drug discovery. He notably co-discovered the functional significance of IDH mutations in cancer and identified the first oncometabolite, 2-HG, through deep investigations into the mechanistic and kinetic enzymology of cancer-associated IDH mutant proteins in glioblastoma. Further explorations into hundreds of cancer cell lines, some of which had been studied for over 30 years, revealed previously unsuspected IDH mutations in a surprisingly high number of them; it became clear they had discovered something of profound significance.
Stefan and his team’s findings unleashed a wave of research into IDH mutations, revealing their prevalence across multiple cancer types, most notably in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This discovery reshaped the understanding of cancer metabolism and ultimately led to the development of targeted IDH inhibitors, a major milestone in precision oncology. Having joined Servier in April 2021, Stefan focuses on the mechanics of how drug and drug targets interact, working closely with discovery teams across the portfolio to uncover new drug targets and guide discovery programs. By identifying chemical starting points and optimizing them into viable drug candidates, his team plays a crucial role in driving Servier’s mission to address hard-to-treat cancers. His leadership in biochemistry has been critical in developing novel treatments within Servier’s oncology portfolio.
Despite these successes, Stefan remains aware of the challenges ahead. While IDH-targeting drugs have significantly improved patient outcomes, they are not curative, and resistance mechanisms remain an ongoing concern. His next focus is on developing combination therapies that can extend treatment efficacy, as well as extend the long-term benefits for patients. With Servier’s unique combination of fast decision making, cutting-edge technology, and the runway and resources of a large pharmaceutical company, he believes the team is well-positioned to drive the next wave of innovation in oncology.
Beyond the lab, Stefan is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists: as a Professor of the Practice of Drug Discovery at Tufts University, he shares his passion for biochemistry and drug development, inspiring students to push the boundaries of biomedical research. But his academic interests extend beyond science – you can ask him anything ranging from French postmodernist philosophers to a Bordeaux Grand Cru, he will probably answer straight away (and in French!).
When asked what drives him, he points to the success of his team: “The passion, dedication, and joy of watching my team being successful.” With an outstanding global team, strong scientific opportunities, and a little bit of luck, Stefan is confident that the next breakthrough is just around the corner.