Milwaukee, Wisconsin, August 17, 2026
The Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) has announced the 2026 Class of Fellows of the Academy of Immuno-Oncology (FAIO), recognizing five internationally recognized leaders whose scientific discoveries and contributions have helped shape the field of cancer immunotherapy. The new Fellows will be formally inducted during a special ceremony at the SITC 2026 Annual Meeting, scheduled for November 4–8, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona, with virtual participation also available. The Academy honors scientists and clinicians whose leadership, research, innovation, and mentorship have advanced immunotherapy from an emerging research discipline into an important approach to cancer treatment.
Five Leaders Recognized for Immunotherapy Contributions
The 2026 Academy of Immuno-Oncology class includes Mary (Nora) Disis, MD, of the University of Washington; Kristen Hege, MD, an independent board of directors member; Rachel Humphrey, MD, of Normunity, Inc.; John M. Kirkwood, MD, of the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center; and Hans-Georg Rammensee, PhD, of the University of Tübingen. SITC said the Fellows were selected for pioneering discoveries, scientific leadership, innovation, and mentorship that have contributed to the advancement of cancer immunotherapy. Their work represents multiple dimensions of the field, reflecting the importance of basic research, translational science, clinical development, and continued scientific collaboration in advancing new approaches to cancer treatment. Through the Academy, SITC aims to recognize influential leaders while highlighting the scientific foundations that continue to support progress in immuno-oncology.
Academy Highlights Advances in Cancer Immunotherapy
Established by SITC, the Academy of Immuno-Oncology recognizes individuals whose visionary leadership and scientific accomplishments have helped transform cancer immunotherapy into a major area of cancer treatment. The Academy celebrates researchers and healthcare professionals whose work has contributed to understanding tumor biology, immune responses, therapeutic development, and the clinical application of immunotherapeutic strategies. SITC described election to the Academy as one of the highest honors in the field, emphasizing the role of the Fellows in advancing scientific knowledge and improving patient care. The annual recognition also serves as a platform for encouraging the next generation of immuno-oncology researchers and clinical leaders. SITC conducts an annual nomination process for new Fellows, with nominations for the 2027 Class of Fellows scheduled to open in spring 2027.
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SITC Supports Global Immuno-Oncology Research
Founded in 1984, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the development, science, and application of cancer immunotherapy and tumor immunology. Its membership includes basic and translational scientists, medical practitioners, healthcare professionals, government leaders, and industry professionals from around the world. Through educational programs and scientific initiatives, SITC promotes collaboration and knowledge exchange among researchers and clinicians working to improve cancer outcomes. The recognition of the 2026 Fellows comes as cancer immunotherapy continues to evolve through advances in research and clinical practice. For cGxP.wire readers, the announcement is relevant because immuno-oncology remains a major area of biopharmaceutical research and therapeutic innovation, with discoveries in tumor immunology and immune-based treatment strategies influencing future drug development. Although the announcement is an academic recognition rather than a specific drug approval or clinical-trial milestone, the contributions of the newly elected Fellows reflect the scientific leadership supporting continued progress in cancer treatment. Their induction at the SITC 2026 Annual Meeting will further highlight the role of collaborative research, scientific mentorship, and translational innovation in advancing the next generation of immuno-oncology therapies.
Source: SITC press relese
