Immunis Sponsorship 2024: Celebrating Young Scientists in Immunology

On December 9, 2024, the prestigious award ceremony for the Immunis Sponsorship for Young Science took place as part of the ÖGAI Symposium. Szabo-Scandic once again honored outstanding young scientists in the field of immunology, providing both financial and scientific support.

A Competition to Promote Innovative Research
The Immunis Sponsorship aims to support young researchers on their journey to groundbreaking discoveries in immunology. This year, over 30 applications were evaluated by the Next Generation Immunologists (NGI) expert panel based on criteria such as scientific relevance, innovation, and feasibility.

Winners of the Immunis Sponsorship 2024

1st Place: Nadine Kinz
Topic: Investigating the Impact of Failed Apoptosis on B Cell Tumor Formation and the Tumor Microenvironment

Institution: Biocenter Developmental Immunology, Medical University of Innsbruck
Prize: Cash and in-kind contributions worth €7,000
Research Highlights: Ms. Kinz investigates how failed apoptosis and DNA damage affect tumor formation. Her work aims to unravel molecular mechanisms to develop new therapeutic approaches.
Quote: “Participating in the Immunis Sponsorship is a great honour and an invaluable opportunity to deepen my research while receiving vital financial support early in my career. I am grateful for this recognition and the chance to grow and contribute to the scientific community.”

Recognition Award: Lena Bauernhofer
Topic: Advancing Precision Diagnostics for HER2 in Breast Cancer Using the MAffCoN-Assay

Institution: Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Karl-Franzens University Graz
Prize: €1,000 in cash
Research Highlights: Ms. Bauernhofer developed the MAffCoN Assay to measure HER2 copy numbers and antibody binding affinities. The goal is to optimize diagnostics and therapy for breast cancer.
Quote: “As a motivated young scientist, I am deeply honored that my work and research goals are recognized by the Immunis Sponsorship. This award not only supports my research but also highlights the societal importance of the MAffCoN-Assay for immunological studies and breast cancer treatment.”

Commitment to Science
The Immunis Sponsorship shows how crucial it is to support young talent in science and provide them with the opportunity to advance their research. We warmly congratulate the winners and look forward to supporting their continued journey!