UCLA Receives $120 Million for Immunology Institute

Dr. Gary Michelson and his wife Alya have pledged $120 million to UCLA to establish the California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, aiming to enhance disease prevention and treatment while fostering economic growth in Los Angeles. The donation allocates $100 million to create two research divisions—one focused on rapid vaccine development and the other on exploring the microbiome's impact on health, in collaboration with the UCLA Goodman-Luskin Microbiome Center. Additionally, $20 million will fund research grants for innovative immunotherapy and vaccine discovery initiatives. Michelson envisions the institute as a leading center for immunology research, addressing major diseases like cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's. UCLA officials expressed profound gratitude, emphasizing the transformative potential of this gift for both local and global health advancements. The institute will be located within UCLA’s new research park at the former Westside Pavilion site.