2024 in Review: Supporting Innovative Research and Driving Impact in Immunology
A Landmark Year Advancing Medical Research
As 2024 comes to a close, we’re reflecting on the many moments that made this year so special—moments that wouldn’t have been possible without the scientists, collaborators, and supporters who share our vision for advancing medical science.
This year, we had the privilege of honoring brilliant scientists through the Michelson Prizes, launching new opportunities for cutting-edge research, and celebrating a historic $120 million gift to establish the California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy at UCLA. These milestones represent so much more than achievements—they’re steps toward a healthier future for all.
Thank you for being part of our journey. We hope you’ll enjoy this look at the highlights of 2024 as we gear up for even more exciting breakthroughs in the year ahead.
Michelson Prizes for Immunology Research
Dr. Bingxu Liu was awarded the 2024 Michelson Philanthropies & Science Prize for Immunology for his work in advancing scientific understanding of how the human immune system senses dangerous invading pathogens, alongside finalists Dr. Gabriele Casirati and Dr. Carla Nowosad. His prize-winning essay, “Protons are the new first responders,” was published in Science.
Three early career scientists, Dr. Siyuan Ding, Dr. Claire Otero, and Dr. Dennis Schaefer-Babajew, were awarded Michelson Prizes: Next Generation Grants. The $150,000 research grants are awarded annually to support early-career scientists advancing human immunology, vaccine discovery, and immunotherapy research for major global diseases.
Keystone Symposia Hosts ePanels with Michelson Laureates
Keystone Symposia hosted virtual panel discussions with the recipients of the Michelson Philanthropies & Science Prize for Immunology and the Michelson Prizes: Next Generation Grants. The scientists shared their award-winning research and answered live questions from the audience.
Historic $120M Gift to UCLA for New Research Institute
Founder and co-chair Dr. Gary Michelson and co-chair Alya Michelson donated $120 million to help launch the California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy (CIII) at the UCLA Research Park. This donation also includes an endowment for innovative research projects in immunotherapy, immunology, and vaccine discovery.
On the Ground with Michelson Medical Research Foundation
Our team attended several conferences this year, including the American Association of Immunologists (AAI), United Negro College Fund’s UNITE Conference, and National Association of Science Writers (NASW), to connect with scientists and peers and share information about our Michelson Prizes.
Michelson Laureates Showcase Innovative Research at Keystone Symposium
The Michelson Medical Research Foundation recently celebrated the outstanding achievements of recipients of the Michelson Prizes: Next Generation Grants. This prestigious event was held during Keystone Symposia’s meeting on Positive Strand RNA Viruses: Interdisciplinary Advances in Virology, Pathogenesis, Immunology, and Technology Development, which was held in Killarney, Ireland, on October 23, 2024.
Two Michelson Laureates, Dr. Claire Otero and Dr. Romain Guyon, presented their award-winning research and shared how the prize supports their careers.
Stay up-to-date on the latest happenings at the Michelson Medical Research Foundation on our website. Make sure to keep an eye out for our Michelson Prizes: Next Generation Grant 2025 Winners, announced early next year.