Marie-Alix was an outstanding immunologist whose career uniquely combined immunology and antibody engineering. After earning her PhD in Montpellier in 1994 and completing a postdoctoral stay at the University of California, San Francisco, she taught at the École Normale Supérieure de Cachan before returning to Montpellier as Professor of Immunology. At the University of Montpellier and the IRCM, she advanced research on therapeutic antibodies and cancer biology, co-directed the Master’s track in Cancer Biology, and was deeply committed to training future researchers and teachers.

Within CHARM-EU, Marie-Alix’s energy and enthusiastic participation left a lasting mark. She contributed to the alliance’s early discussions and guided and supported various MSc students as a mentor, and was deeply involved in the Scientific Hubs module, where she acted as a keynote speaker and coach for international student’s teams. She also supported colleagues, offering expertise, encouragement, and kindness. Those who worked with her remember her openness, professionalism, attentive listening, and commitment to advancing education and research with a holistic vision. Passionate about both science and people as well as pedagogical innovation, and deeply engaged in international collaboration, she embodied the values that CHARM-EU seeks to promote and remains a role model for us all.

In recognition of her contributions, a tribute will be paid at the opening of the Scientific Hubs conference day to be held at IRCM on 24 September, where she was due to participate.

On behalf of the CHARM-EU Alliance, we extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, and students. We honour her memory and the lasting impact of her dedication to research, education, and the next generation.