Dr. Elias Tannous, Merck & Co., Inc.

"All for the greater good: Helping to improve lives through scientific breakthroughs, mentoring, and everyday interactions"

Dr. Elias Tannous completed his PhD at Osaka University in 2014. He is currently based in the United States and working for Merck, a global health care company that delivers innovative health solutions through its prescription medicines, including biologic therapies, vaccines and animal health products.

His pathway here -- A passion and endeavor to deepen scientific knowledge

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Balamand in Lebanon. Eager to pursue higher education in the field of medical sciences, I applied for and received the prestigious MEXT scholarship, a scholarship offered by the Japanese Government for post-graduate studies in Japan. I chose Osaka University as my destination and focused my studies in Molecular Biotechnology under the supervision of Professor Shigenori Kanaya. After receiving my doctoral degree from Osaka University, I relocated to the United States to join Professor Peter Burgers’ lab at Washington University in Saint Louis, a world-renowned lab focusing on nuclear DNA replication and DNA damage response mechanisms. During my time in Prof. Burgers’ lab, I explored the mechanisms of cell cycle checkpoints in the context of DNA damage that led to several publications. I also met my wife and we started our family while in St. Louis. In 2021, I relocated to San Francisco, California to join the Discovery Biologics department of Merck, where I continue to pursue my passion for innovation.

His life goal -- Becoming a scientist to contribute to improving people’s lives

Throughout my studies and now my career, my aim has always been to improve the lives of others. One issue that I believe many graduate students face when pursuing a doctoral thesis is a focus on the details of their work while missing the bigger picture. I was no exception and, at times, found myself getting caught up in the trees and missing the forest. I had to consciously take a step back and connect my thoughts with the idea that, as scientists, we are driven by the goal of saving and improving lives. Fundamental science can feel daunting and disconnected at times, but no matter what one is working on, it forms the basis for all past and future medical breakthroughs.

Overall, my aim is to help others through science, through mentoring, and through everyday interactions. By keeping my eye on the bigger picture, I stay energized about my work and how it will, hopefully, ease human suffering.

Now an established scientist, he aims to cultivate therapeutic innovation

At Merck, my work is varied and includes, among other things, identifying, screening, characterizing, and optimizing protein modalities to ultimately discover new and innovative treatments to combat diseases. I utilize my experience, including my training at Osaka University, to work with other scientists focused on different therapeutic areas (e.g., oncology, immunology, etc.) and together advance projects from early-stage ideas to preclinical developments. I also take pride in my role as a mentor and teacher to younger scientists and enjoy sharing my knowledge with – and also learning from – the next generation.

Laying the foundation for the present at Osaka University

My experience and training at Osaka University have enriched my life in multiple ways. The experience of relocating to a country far from my home with a culture far removed from my lived experience was both exciting and frightening. The international and diverse nature of Osaka University helped ease my fears while stoking my excitement. This rich experience continues to inform my actions by helping me work with diverse teams and navigate a global company. Additionally, the training I received laid the foundation which allows me to explore and innovate in various situations. The scientific methods, as well as the work ethic engrained in the Japanese culture, that I observed during my studies continue to inspire me and color my behavior today.

A reminder to OU students to “Grow Globally”

Try to remember the end goal – even when you’re slogging through the details, through the minutiae, and putting in the long hours – there is a greater goal. It may seem daunting when you’re just getting started but your goal is achievable.
Keep going. Your experience in the lab, in the culture, in the diverse environment at Osaka University will prepare you to succeed wherever you land.

Edit: Saori Obayashi, Christopher Bubb