dr. Michael Saerens (MD)

Our primary research focus are the development and validation prognostic and predictive biomarkers in cancer, especially in head and neck cancer, melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer and renal cell cancer. We aim to improve early detection of head and neck cancer, especially high-risk HPV+ disease. By comprehensive investigation of blood and tissue, with spatial proteomics, transcriptome analysis, targeted sequencing and flow cytometry, we aim to identify markers that permit a more individualized approach in oncologic care, paving the way for personalized immunotherapy.
 

Michael Saerens is a clinician-scientist in the Department of Medical Oncology at Ghent University Hospital, combining an oncology practice with a translational research programme centred on biomarker discovery and anticancer therapy toxicity in the field of head and neck cancer and skin cancer.
His primary research focuses on the development and clinical validation of prognostic and predictive biomarkers in cancer. By integrating spatial proteomics, transcriptome analysis, targeted sequencing, and flow cytometry-based immunophenotyping, his group works to identify markers that enable a more individualised approach to oncologic care — paving the way for precision immunotherapy. A secondary aim is improving early detection of head and neck cancer, especially HPV-driven disease, through comprehensive interrogation of blood and tumour tissue. 
Dr. Saerens published on real-world toxicity of modern anticancer agents, characterising the incidence, clinical course, and underlying biology of immune-related adverse events, chemotherapy toxicity, and targeted therapy side effects. This dual approach — pairing careful clinical observation with laboratory investigation — aims to translate toxicity insights into actionable management guidance for practising oncologists.
 

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• Michael Saerens is interested to receive invitations for presentations or talks