#oncology #Belgium #Liège #THERAtRAME #Dr. Rapino

Dr. Francesca Rapino: A Visionary Leader in Biotech

Dr. Francesca Rapino, the Chief Executive Officer of THERAtRAME SA, has been celebrated for her exceptional leadership and innovative contributions to the oncology sector, clinching the title of "Biotech CEO of the Year – Oncology Innovation & Breakthroughs" in the prestigious 2025 CEO Awards by Business Worldwide Magazine. Her groundbreaking work has set a new benchmark for leadership in the biotechnology industry, especially concerning cancer treatment.

Early Career and Company Genesis

In 2022, Dr. Rapino co-founded THERAtRAME as a spin-off from the University of Liège and the WelRi Institute in Belgium. Her academic journey began with a doctorate magna cum laude from Goethe University Hospital in Frankfurt, and she quickly established herself as a formidable force in oncology research. By the time she took on the CEO role in 2025, Dr. Rapino was already well-known for her ability to harmonize scientific innovation with business acumen.

Under her guidance, THERAtRAME has focused on developing innovative therapies targeting hidden vulnerabilities in cancer cells—specifically multi-resistant and previously untreatable cancers. This unique approach positions the company at the forefront of cancer treatment.

Raising Capital and Advancing Research

One of the significant accomplishments under Dr. Rapino's leadership includes successfully raising nearly €8 million through equity and non-dilutive grants. This funding is crucial as it supports the advancement of a groundbreaking pipeline of novel small-molecule drugs that inhibit tRNA modifications, effectively blocking cancer cells' ability to evade treatments. These therapeutics fuses the precision of targeted therapies with immunotherapy properties, offering a dual mechanism of action.

Dr. Rapino's tenure at THERAtRAME is marked not only by innovation but also by her exceptional ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and communicate complex scientific concepts in a digestible manner for stakeholders at all levels. Her effective alignment of research innovation with business growth reinforces her reputation as a thought leader in the biotech sector.

Commitment to Patient-Centric Innovation

A critical aspect of Dr. Rapino's vision for THERAtRAME is her unwavering commitment to patient-centric innovation. She is meticulously guiding the company towards first-in-human clinical trials, ensuring that their groundbreaking discoveries transition into applicable clinical solutions as swiftly as possible. This pragmatic approach highlights her dedication to addressing urgent challenges in global cancer care.

In her own words, Dr. Rapino states, "Our goal is to transform pioneering research into real-world solutions for patients with cancers that currently have no effective treatments. By combining breakthrough science with strategic partnerships, we aim to position THERAtRAME as a leader in next-generation oncology therapeutics."

Looking Ahead

As THERAtRAME continues to progress on its journey toward clinical trials, Dr. Rapino's leadership remains pivotal. She exemplifies how combining scientific rigor with entrepreneurial insight can result in revolutionary advancements in medical treatment. The recognition she has received from the Business Worldwide Magazine CEO Awards not only celebrates her individual achievements but also serves to inspire the broader biotechnology landscape.

For more information about THERAtRAME SA and its mission, visit theratrame.com. To learn about the 2025 CEO Awards, please check bwmonline.com/awards.