Frantz Jean-François

My background

After earning my PhD in physical chemistry at the University of Bordeaux, where I focused on the structural study of antimicrobial peptides using nuclear magnetic resonance, I continued my scientific path with two postdoctoral positions: first at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (USA), and then at the University of California, San Francisco, in collaboration with Pfizer.

I later joined the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in the USA, where I led translational research projects on major oncological targets, including KRAS.

With over sixteen years of international experience in biomedical research, I founded Sirius Biotech Ventures in 2024, a biotechnology company dedicated to discovering novel therapies derived from Caribbean biodiversity. The company is scientifically rooted in Guadeloupe and maintains international partnerships.

My vision of the role of ambassador

Being a PhD ambassador in Guadeloupe is an opportunity for me to contribute to the emergence of a new generation of researchers from overseas territories. My role is to embody a scientific path that demonstrates academic excellence and entrepreneurial innovation are achievable from our regions.

I aim to encourage students to view the PhD not only as a globally recognized program of excellence but also as a springboard to diverse careers - whether in academic research, industry, or entrepreneurship.

In partnership with the University of the Antilles and local stakeholders, I plan to develop workshops and scientific outreach conferences for students and even high school students. The goal is to promote the PhD as a driver of economic development and innovation in Guadeloupe.

Additionally, through Sirius Biotech Ventures, I am working to highlight the potential of Caribbean biodiversity for drug discovery - an initiative that concretely illustrates how a PhD can fuel projects with significant scientific, economic, and societal impact.