Richard Markus, M.D., Ph.D., serves as Chief Medical Officer at Arcus Biosciences Inc., where he leads the company’s clinical development organization and oversees the advancement of its oncology and immunology pipeline. With more than 20 years of experience in biopharmaceuticals, Dr. Markus is a recognized leader in immuno-oncology, driving innovative therapies from early research through regulatory approval. His strategic vision has been pivotal in accelerating clinical programs aimed at transforming cancer treatment. Dr. Markus earned his M.D. from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and his Ph.D. in immunology from The Rockefeller University, where his doctoral work focused on T-cell biology and immune regulation. He began his industry career at Bristol-Myers Squibb as a Medical Director, playing a key role in the clinical development and global approval of nivolumab (Opdivo®), the first PD-1 inhibitor to reach the market. Subsequently, as Senior Vice President of Clinical Development at Genentech (a Roche Group member), he led cross-functional teams responsible for advancing multiple assets, including the anti-TIGIT antibody tiragolumab through Phase III trials. At Arcus Biosciences, Dr. Markus directs the clinical execution of high-potential programs such as domvanalimab (anti-TIGIT) and zimberelimab (anti-PD-1), forging key partnerships like the collaboration with Gilead Sciences. His achievements include numerous peer-reviewed publications, patents, and contributions to pivotal trials that have shaped the immuno-oncology landscape, positioning Arcus to deliver next-generation combination therapies to patients.