Since 2012, René Medema has played a prominent role as chairman of the board of directors at the Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI), where he has been dedicated to innovations in cancer research and care. After 12.5 years, he bids farewell as chairman of the board and director of science, transitioning from the NKI to the Princes Maxima Centre. At his farewell symposium, he was surprised with this special honor.
Medema's groundbreaking research into cancer biology has led to a better understanding of chromosomal abnormalities within cancer cells. The results of his research are utilized to further enhance cancer treatment for patients at the NKI and in other hospitals in the Netherlands and beyond.
This has been recently confirmed by a panel of international experts who examined whether the financing that the NKI receives annually from the Dutch Cancer Society is being spent well and effectively. The panel unanimously agreed that under Medema's leadership, the NKI plays a leading international role and truly contributes to the improvement of cancer treatment.
As a leader, Medema has advocated for increased focus on early diagnostics and was involved in the establishment of the Center for Quality of Life. He also played a crucial role in the digital transformation of the NKI and the development of the Digital Oncology program, focused on research, diagnosis, and treatment.
Due to the contributions Medema has made to cancer research and care in the Netherlands and Europe, René Medema has been appointed Knight in the Order of the Lion of the Netherlands.
The Order of the Lion the Netherlands is one of the oldest and highest civilian (knight) orders in the Netherlands. King Willem I established the Order on September 29, 1815. An individual is eligible for an award in this order when an extraordinary contribution of very exceptional nature is made to society.