Brussels, 7 January 2016 - We are glad to proudly introduce Professor Martin Schrappe, new President of SIOPE (The European Society for Paediatric Oncology) since January 1st, 2016.
Member of the SIOPE Board since 2009, Martin Schrappe is Full Professor of Paediatrics and Director of the Department of General Paediatrics at the University Medical Centre Schleswig-Holstein, Christian-Albrechts University of Kiel (Germany). Prof Schrappe has an extensive knowledge on the clinical and biological aspects of paediatric oncology, with an emphasis on leukaemia therapy, as well as a long and international reputation as Chairman of the International BFM Study Group. Board Member of various national and international clinical study groups for paediatric haematology and oncology, Prof Schrappe is one of the Activity Coordinators of the ENCCA project and will also represent our Society within the Board of ECCO (the European CanCer Organisation).
The priorities of his Presidency will include, first and foremost, the implementation of the SIOPE Strategic Plan. By establishing timelines and responsibilities, building robust and sustainable platforms with partners and exploring new funding opportunities, he will make sure to achieve the ambitious goals set in this key document for our community. Our new President will also work to further improve the recognition of SIOPE as the leading voice for paediatric haematology-oncology in Europe, including the possibility of increasing the role of our Society as a platform for education and training of professionals. Finally, Professor Schrappe aims to define the long-term position of SIOPE in the framework of European cancer meetings and congresses.
We would like to congratulate with Professor Schrappe for taking over the role of SIOPE President, crucial in this period of momentous change within our Society.
We are sure that SIOPE will thrive under his upcoming presidency, and that our Society will further progress towards our common aim to increase the disease- and late-effect- free survival after ten years from the diagnosis, and beyond.