The prize recognizes foundational discoveries about regulatory T cells and the FOXP3 gene that redefined immune tolerance and opened avenues to treat autoimmune disease, enable transplantation, and advance immuno-oncology. ISB celebrates Dr. Brunkow’s leadership and collaborative science.
The pioneering work of Mary Brunkow and Fred Ramsdell began with a mysterious mutant mouse known as “scurfy,” leading them to identify the FOXP3 gene and unlock how regulatory T cells prevent autoimmune disease — discoveries that now point to new treatments in cancer and autoimmunity.
ISB honors Dr. Charles “Chuck” Watts (1942–2025) – physician, leader, and former Board Chair – who died on September 23 after a battle with esophageal cancer. A champion of patient safety, systems biology, and STEM education, Chuck guided ISB with insight and warmth. His legacy endures in our mission and community.
ISB Co-founder Dr. Leroy (Lee) Hood has been named one of the inaugural recipients of the Michael Sela Prize in Biomedical Sciences, awarded by the Weizmann Institute of Science. Hood shares the honor with Dr. Francis S. Collins and Dr. Eric S. Lander for pioneering work that has reshaped modern medicine and advanced human health.
This summer at ISB, 12 college interns dove into research and a science-themed book club, while five education programs engaged 150+ high school students in hands-on learning, data science, systems thinking, and leadership – thanks to generous partners and supporters.
Postdoctoral fellows are the lifeblood of research institutions, yet their contributions are often underrecognized. At the Institute for Systems Biology (ISB), postdocs enter the scientific workforce with passion, vision, and advanced training – bringing the fresh ideas that fuel discovery.
Since 2021, Claudia McLaughlin Ludwig and the ISB Education team have partnered with Washington Service Corps, an AmeriCorps program, welcoming four AmeriCorps members in various important roles over that timespan. The program will be paused for 2026. Join recent AmeriCorps members Sarah Clemente and Faduma Hussein in reflecting on their time at ISB and the importance of this program to their professional development.
Researchers at ISB have developed personalized models to predict C. diff colonization risk and test targeted probiotics. This approach could prevent infection before it starts and paves the way for precision microbiome therapies tailored to individual gut ecosystems.