Celebrating the Next Generation of Researchers: Dr. Philip Bucher Wins the Dr. Maresch-Klingelhöffer Research Prize
On 5 November 2026, we presented the Dr. Maresch-Klingelhöffer Research Prize to Dr. Philip Bucher of the iFIT Cluster of Excellence in Tübingen. It was an evening full of fascinating talks, lively conversation, big ideas and heartfelt recognition, and one message came through loud and clear: the future of paediatric oncology depends on committed young researchers.
A winner with vision
Dr. Bucher’s talk showed exactly why he won. He took a highly complex research topic and made it accessible to everyone in the room, and his enthusiasm was infectious. Young scientists like him are why we are so optimistic about the future of childhood cancer research.
A laudation that brought the science to life
The laudation was delivered by Prof. Dirk Heckl, our endowed professor and head of the Institute for Experimental Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (EPHO). He did much more than celebrate the winner’s achievements. His clear introduction to CAR-T therapies gave the audience a glimpse into one of the most promising fields in paediatric oncology.
Where the clinic meets the lab
Dr. Yannick Braun is a paediatric surgeon who also leads research at our Dr. Petra Joh Research Centre. In his keynote, he showed how closely the two are linked. Discoveries made in the lab need to reach the children who need them. Just as importantly, what doctors see in the clinic shapes the questions researchers ask in the lab, and that is how research ends up helping children on the ward.
Stronger together
A special thank-you goes to Sonja Peichl, Managing Director of the ODDO BHF Stiftung, who hosted the evening so warmly. In her welcome address she spoke about the power of working together, which is at the very heart of our philanthropic commitment to children with cancer.
It was wonderful to see so many donors, friends and supporters with us. The evening gave everyone a chance to talk about what brings us together: the belief that research helps cure, and that every new discovery brings a better future for children with cancer a step closer.
Congratulations, Dr. Bucher!
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