About
Dr. Marcel Bally is a Scientist and Head of the Department of Experimental Therapeutics at BC Cancer, with affiliations to the Creative Destruction Lab (CDL-Toronto and CDL-Vancouver) in the Cancer stream.
Research and Expertise
His research spans biochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, and nanotechnology, focusing on lipid-based drug delivery systems and preclinical cancer models. He has pioneered innovations in nanoparticulate formulations, including freeze-drying methods and metal complexation technologies, leading to approved drugs like MyoCet™, Marqibo™, and VYXEOS™. His work has resulted in over 200 peer-reviewed papers, 200+ patents, and a high H-index of 77, reflecting significant scientific impact.
Scientific Leadership
- Co-founded CDRD (Centre for Drug Research and Development) and four biotech companies
- Continuous grant funding for >25 years
- Mentored over 60 PhD/PDF trainees, many of whom hold tenured academic or industry leadership roles
Commercial Impact
The companies he co-founded (Arbutus Biopharma, Transferra, Celator, Cuprous Pharmaceuticals) collectively employ >250 FTEs in British Columbia. Celator’s acquisition by Jazz Pharmaceuticals for $1.5B/Cdn and Transferra’s by Evonik for $43M/Cdn highlight his translational success.
