Our team
Partners →
History →
Co founders ↓
Advisors ↓
Co founders
André Pèlegrin
Ph.D; Research Director within INSERM
André Pèlegrin, co-founder of SurgiMab and former Director of the “Institut de Recherche en cancérologie de Montpellier”(IRCM), is a pioneer in antibody-based cancer imaging with 30+ years of translational oncology expertise. He developed antibody-fluorophore conjugates that underpin SurgiMab’s platform, advancing its lead candidate from bench to bedside. Author of 150+ publications and mentor to young scientists, he bridges scientific innovation and entrepreneurship to shape the future of cancer surgery.
Marian Gutowski
M. D. Surgical Oncologist in ICM
Dr. Marian Gutowski, surgical oncologist at the Institut du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM) and co-founder of SurgiMab, is recognized for his expertise in complex cancer surgery and intraoperative imaging. He has been pivotal in adapting fluorescence-guided technology to real surgical needs, improving tumor visualization and precision in the operating room. His clinical insight ensures seamless integration into practice, driving surgeon confidence and advancing innovation in cancer care.
Françoise CAILLER
Ph.D: CEO – CSO
Françoise Cailler led SurgiMab’s transformation from academic spin-off to clinical-stage innovator in fluorescence-guided surgery. With proven expertise in business development and strategic partnerships, she has secured the funding and collaborations driving SGM-101 through late-stage clinical development. Her vision turned breakthrough science into real-world impact, improving surgical precision and patient outcomes while building agile, high-performing teams to speed the adoption of innovative oncology technologies.
Michel BARBELANNE
M.Sci: CFO /Administration and Finances
Michel has overseen SurgiMab’s administration and finances since 2010, supporting the company’s creation and growth. With a background in immunology and a Master’s in Innovation & Technology Management from Toulouse Business School, he previously served as Financial Director at Matbiopharma, helping advance its first antibody-based product to the clinic. At SurgiMab, he brings extensive expertise in financial management and the administrative complexities of clinical drug development.
Advisors
Vincent Dubois
L2D,Advisory Regulatory
Vincent is a regulatory and CMC expert with 28+ years in drug development. His work spans small molecules, biologics, cell therapies, vaccines, and advanced delivery systems across all development stages. He has held leadership roles in US and European biotechs and contributed to oncology, anti-infective, anti-inflammatory, and immunotherapy programs. In 2009, he co-founded Leads To Development (L2D), where he serves as Managing Director, supporting over 160 biopharma companies with non-clinical and regulatory expertise. Vincent holds a PhD from the University of Louvain (Belgium) and is co-inventor on thirteen patents.
Professor Harm Rutten
M.D. Surgical Oncologist
Professor Rutten, based at Catharina Hospital Eindhoven and Maastricht University, is a pioneer in rectal cancer surgery and research. He played a central role in introducing total mesorectal excision in the Netherlands and established one of the world’s leading rectal cancer units. With a strong focus on image-guided surgery, he was among the first to bring fluorescence-guided surgery into clinical practice for advanced cancer cases. He also held a chair for cancer research at Maastricht University, driving innovation in surgical oncology.innovation in surgical oncology through clinical research and international collaboration.
Professor Alex Vahrmeijer
M.D. Surgical Oncologist & HPB Surgeon at LUMC
Alex Vahrmeijer is a leading surgeon and researcher at Leiden University Medical Center, specializing in image- and fluorescence-guided cancer surgery. He leads the Green Light Leiden research group, developing techniques that improve intraoperative tumor visualization and surgical precision. His work focuses on enhancing resection completeness and reducing recurrence across multiple cancer types. He has received grants from the Dutch Cancer Society, EU programs, and the NIH, and is recognized internationally for his contributions to precision surgical oncology. In addition to clinical practice, he actively trains surgeons and medical professionals in advanced intraoperative imaging techniques.
Partners →
History →