Fellow of Corpus Professor Sam Behjati has been recognised by the Academy of Medical Sciences for his contributions to advancing medical science, groundbreaking research discoveries and translating developments into benefits for patients and the wider public.

Professor Behjati is Clinical Professor of Paediatric Oncology at the University of Cambridge and an Honorary Consultant Paediatric Oncologist at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, as well as Group Leader at the Wellcome Sanger Institute. 

His clinical research work has focused on the origin of cancers, in particular of childhood cancer. He explores how to use genomic data to improve the treatment of children, and he ensures that every child with a solid tumour in his region receives whole-genome sequencing, which allows for more precise diagnoses and targeted therapies.

“I’m honoured and delighted to be given a Fellowship by the Academy of Medical Sciences and this recognition reflects the incredible contribution from my team, colleagues and collaborators. The children and the families that I have cared for continue to drive me to better understand and treat childhood cancer and I’m excited about what we can achieve for children in the years ahead." 
Professor Sam Behjati

Professor Behjati is a former recipient of the Academy’s prestigious Foulkes Foundation medal which recognises rising stars within biomedical research. Last year he was also awarded the Francis Crick Medal and Lecture by the Royal Society for his discoveries on the developmental origins of childhood cancers.

He is one of four Cambridge biomedical and health researchers amongst those announced as newly-elected Fellows. 

Those also elected are Professor Clare Bryant from the Departments of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, Professor Frank Reimann from the Institute of Metabolic Science-Metabolic Research Laboratories and Professor Mina Ryten from UK Dementia Research Institute.

They join an esteemed Fellowship of 1,450 researchers who are at the heart of the Academy’s work, which includes nurturing the next generation of scientists and shaping research and health policy in the UK and worldwide. 

Professor Andrew Morris CBE FRSE PMedSci, President of the Academy of Medical Sciences, said: “The breadth of disciplines represented in this year’s cohort – from mental health and infectious disease to cancer biology and respiratory medicine – reflects the rich diversity of medical science today. Their election comes at a crucial time when scientific excellence and collaboration across disciplines are essential for addressing global health challenges both now and in the future. We look forward to working with them to advance biomedical research and create an environment where the best science can flourish for the benefit of people everywhere.”

The new Fellows will be formally admitted to the Academy at a ceremony on Wednesday 9 July 2025.

The Academy of Medical Sciences is the independent, expert voice of biomedical and health research in the UK. The Fellowship comprises the most influential scientists in the UK and worldwide, drawn from the NHS, academia, industry, and the public service.