Paolo Ciracì, a final-year resident doctor in Medical Oncology at the University of Pisa and currently a Research Fellow at the Hospital del Mar Research Institute in Barcelona, has been awarded the Merit Award of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). It will be presented during the association’s annual meeting, taking place in Chicago from 29 May to 3 June, the world’s leading event dedicated to oncology.
Ciracì, 31, was recognised for a study on the application of artificial intelligence in oncology. The aim was to identify biomarkers capable of predicting the effectiveness of intensified chemotherapy in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. The research, which produced encouraging results, was carried out through a collaboration between the University of Pisa, the GONO-GI Foundation and VALAR Labs, a start-up founded by researchers at Stanford University. The project also involved the Pathology Unit 3 of the Pisa University Hospital (AOUP), directed by Professor Clara Ugolini.
The Merit Award is presented each year to early-career physicians and researchers who distinguish themselves through the outstanding scientific value of their work. Ciracì is one of only two Italian recipients in the 2026 edition. The University of Pisa’s colorectal cancer research group, led by Professor Chiara Cremolini, Full Professor of Medical Oncology and Director of the Specialisation School, has a long tradition of participation in ASCO and Merit Award success.
“My clinical and research activity is mainly dedicated to gastrointestinal oncology, with a particular focus on precision medicine in metastatic colorectal cancer. From the earliest years of my training, I oriented my career towards translational oncology. A fundamental role in my professional and scientific development was played by Professor Chiara Cremolini. Under her supervision, I had the opportunity to train in an environment characterised by great methodological and scientific rigour, conducting academic clinical studies together with my colleagues throughout Italy,” says Paolo Ciracì.
“Looking ahead, after completing my specialist training, I would like to continue my research career,” Ciracì concludes, “with the aim of contributing to the development of increasingly effective and personalised treatment strategies for cancer patients.”
