#USA #LLS #Chief Scientific Officer #Lore Gruenbaum #Rye Brook

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Welcomes New Chief Scientific Officer

In a significant move for cancer research, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) has appointed Lore Gruenbaum, Ph.D., as its new Chief Scientific Officer (CSO). Gruenbaum succeeds Dr. Lee Greenberger, who retired after an impressive eleven-year tenure during which he significantly advanced the organization’s mission to fight blood cancer. Dr. Gruenbaum, who has been integral to LLS since 2020, will now lead the strategic planning and execution of the society’s research initiatives.

Dr. Gruenbaum’s track record in oncology, coupled with her leadership in drug discovery and development, positions her well for this new challenge. With LLS investing more than $250 million in academic grants and spearheading groundbreaking projects such as the Beat AML® Master Clinical Trial, her expertise becomes vital in propelling these initiatives forward. As noted by Gwen Nichols, M.D., LLS's chief medical officer, Gruenbaum has demonstrated unwavering commitment to enhancing patient lives and advancing the field of blood cancer research.

Under her leadership of the Therapy Acceleration Program (TAP), Gruenbaum has forged 12 new partnerships with biotech companies across the U.S. and Europe. These collaborations not only aim to expedite innovative treatments but have also commenced over a dozen clinical trials – critical steps towards new therapy approvals.

Dr. Gruenbaum brings over twenty years of experience in drug development across various therapeutic areas, including immunology and virology. She obtained her Ph.D. in biochemistry in Germany and later conducted postdoctoral research at Yale University. Her scientific acumen and proactive strategies align with LLS's goals of improving both research outcomes and patient care.

Dr. Greenberger's era at LLS was marked by remarkable growth and achievement, including the funding of approximately 1,000 research projects amounting to over $600 million altogether. During his leadership, LLS contributed to 70% of the 150 FDA approvals for blood cancer products, one of which included pioneering CAR T-cell therapy. As E. Anders Kolb, M.D., president and CEO of LLS, highlighted, the legacy left by Dr. Greenberger is significant, and the organization wishes him the best in his retirement.

As Dr. Gruenbaum steps into her role as CSO, the LLS emphasizes its unwavering commitment to cure blood cancer and improve the quality of life for all patients and their families. The organization’s holistic approach includes funding life-saving research, providing essential support services, and advocating for patients in need of coordinated care.

Founded in 1949 and based in Rye Brook, NY, the LLS has become a leader in the global fight against blood cancer. With over 600 clinical trials funded, the LLS remains dedicated to changing the paradigm of blood cancer treatment through innovative research and community engagement. To find more resources or to connect with support services, visit www.LLS.org or reach out to the Information Resource Center at (800) 955-4572 during business hours.

Gruenbaum's appointment marks a new chapter for LLS as it continues its mission to stand at the forefront of blood cancer research, ensuring that advancements in science are accessible to additional patients around the world. As she embarks on this new journey, the entire LLS community looks forward to her leadership and vision in combating blood cancer.