Director of Research exceptional class at INSERM, France
Dr. Gilles Pagès is a senior cancer research scientist with a long-standing career in molecular and cellular biology, prominently contributing to oncology through translational and experimental research. Currently a DRCE-level researcher at INSERM and principal investigator at IRCAN, he also serves as a consultant to the Centre Scientifique de Monaco. Since completing his PhD in 1990 and his habilitation in 1994 at the University of Nice, he has consistently worked at the intersection of angiogenesis, resistance mechanisms in cancer therapy, and vascular biology. Dr. Pagès holds an international reputation, underscored by memberships in key scientific boards and a prolific record of publications, grants, and patents.
profile
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Education:
Dr. Pagès received his PhD in molecular and cellular biology in 1990 from Nice, France, and earned his Habilitation à diriger des recherches in 1994. His early academic trajectory was marked by a steady rise through French research ranks, ultimately achieving the highest level as DRCE at INSERM in 2024. His solid foundational education and continuous professional advancement have positioned him as an expert in translational cancer research.
Experience:
From 1990 to 2007, he served as Assistant Professor, progressing to DR2 INSERM (2007–2013), DR1 INSERM (2013–2023), and finally DRCE INSERM from 2024. At IRCAN, Dr. Pagès has led innovative cancer research and contributed extensively to mentorship and institutional development. He is also a consultant for the Centre Scientifique de Monaco and has acted as an expert for pharmaceutical companies such as Roche, Bayer, Ipsen, and BMS. His international influence is reflected in invitations to over 30 scientific conferences and roles in organizing major congresses like the Biennale de Cancérologie de Monaco.
Research Interests:
Dr. Pagès’ research focuses on tumor angiogenesis, resistance to anti-angiogenic therapy, the tumor microenvironment, renal cell carcinoma, and therapeutic targeting of cytokine and chemokine pathways. He has contributed significantly to understanding CXCL-CXCR signaling, neuropilins, and metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer. His team investigates translational approaches that link mechanistic insights with clinical applications, bridging gaps between bench and bedside.
Awards:
His pioneering work has garnered several accolades, including the Grand Prix Ruban Rose for breast cancer research (2015), the Prince Albert I° Award from the National Academy of Medicine (2018), the Amgen Foundation Award (2021), and the prestigious Grand Prix Jean Valade from Fondation de France (2023–2024). These honors underscore his contributions to advancing cancer research and therapeutic innovation.
Publications:
Dr. Pagès has authored over 160 publications and holds 14 patents. Below are 7 selected key publications:
- Teisseire M et al., 2025, Cancer Research: “De Novo Serine Synthesis is a Metabolic Vulnerability that can be Exploited to Overcome Sunitinib Resistance in Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma” – This study, cited in 12 articles, explores therapeutic resistance mechanisms in renal cancer.
- Sarlak S, Pagès G, Luciano F, 2025, Cancer Treatment Reviews: “Enhancing radiotherapy techniques for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer” – A collaborative review shaping future radiotherapy strategies.
- Sirera J et al., 2024, Journal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research: “Disrupting USP39 deubiquitinase function…” – Cited in 20+ papers, it offers novel pathways in myeloma treatment.
- Montemagno C et al., 2024, J Exp Clin Cancer Res: “CXCR2 as a therapeutic target in renal cell carcinoma” – Received significant attention with over 30 citations.
- Montemagno C et al., 2023, Molecular Oncology: “VEGF splice variants as therapeutic targets” – A foundational paper in RCC therapy cited by leading cancer biologists.
- Giuliano S et al., 2023, Autophagy: “Autolysosomal defects in Alzheimer and Parkinson disease” – Cross-disciplinary impact with 18 citations.
- Brest P et al., 2023, British Journal of Cancer: “Checkpoint inhibitors and anti-angiogenic agents: a winning combination” – Widely cited for its relevance in immunotherapy integration.
Conclusion:
Dr. Gilles Pagès stands as a distinguished figure in cancer biology, contributing extensively to both basic research and its clinical translation. With a career that spans over three decades, his work bridges molecular insights with therapeutic advances, particularly in renal cell carcinoma and angiogenesis. His strategic involvement in research networks, mentorship, teaching, and startup creation reflects his commitment to innovation and collaboration. Dr. Pagès continues to lead impactful projects, publish influential research, and inspire new generations of scientists across Europe and beyond.