Lars Karlsson
Researcher, University of Gothenburg
Paediatrician, Sahlgrenska University Hospital
Lars Karlsson is a paediatrician at Queen Silvia Children’s Hospital and a researcher at the University of Gothenburg. His work focuses on developing new treatments for some of the most challenging forms of childhood cancer.
His research centres on advanced immunotherapy, particularly CAR T-cell therapy, in which a patient’s own immune cells are genetically modified to recognise and attack cancer cells. The treatment is already used for certain blood cancers and is now being investigated for solid tumours, including aggressive brain tumours in children.
Lars Karlsson has worked in leading international research environments, including at Stanford University, and collaborates closely with prominent research groups around the world. At the same time, maintaining a strong connection to clinical practice remains a key priority.
“The research must be guided by the needs of the children we meet in healthcare,” he says.
At Queen Silvia Children’s Hospital, research and clinical care are closely integrated and conducted in collaboration with national and international networks. The aim is to give more children access to new treatments – earlier and with greater precision.
In recognition of his contributions, Lars Karlsson was named Childhood Cancer Researcher of the Year 2025.
His work is about the future: creating new possibilities for children affected by diseases that currently have no cure.
When research and clinical experience come together, new treatments can become a reality.