Society for Natural Immunity
Our Legacy and Mission
The Society for Natural Immunity (SNI) has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1989 by Ron Herberman. Our first meeting took place in 1992 in St. Petersburg, Florida. Over the years, SNI has grown into a globally recognised authority in the field of Natural Killer cells and natural immunity. Our journey is a testament to the countless scientists, clinicians, and enthusiasts who have dedicated their efforts to our mission.
The mission of SNI is to deepen the understanding of Natural Killer cells and natural immunity. We strive to create a collaborative space where researchers and clinicians can exchange ideas, share findings, and translate this knowledge into clinical practice. Through our annual meetings and symposia, we bring together a global community that is passionate about exploring and advancing the field of natural immunity.
SNI Council Members
The SNI Council is the guiding force behind the Society for Natural Immunity, steering its direction and upholding its mission.
President
Mariapia Degli-Eposti, PhD
PROFESSOR OF MICROBIOLOGY
Infection and Immunity Program and Department of Microbiology
Biomedicine Discovery Institute
Monash University
Clayton, Victoria
Australia
President elect
Karl-Johan Malmberg, MD, PhD
PROFESSOR FOR IMMUNOLOGY
Director of the CoE Precision Immunotherapy Alliance (PRIMA)
University of Oslo
Norway
Treasurer
Todd A. Fehninger, MD, PhD
PROFESSOR OF MEDICINE
Washington University School of Medicine
Division of Oncology
St. Louis, MO, USA
Secretary
Carsten Watzl, PhD
PROFESSOR OF IMMUNOLOGY
Leibniz Research Center (IfADo)
Dortmund, Germany
Past Presidents
Todd A. Fehniger (2022 – 2025)
Under his leadership the organizational structure of the SNI was modernized, making our society fit for the future.
Adelheid Cerwenka (2018 – 2022)
Charting the course for the most recent advancements in the field and leading SNI into a new era of research and collaboration.
Michael Caligiuri (2015 – 2018)
Under his leadership the organizational structure of the SNI was modernized, making our society fit for the future.
Hans-Gustaf Ljunggren (2012 – 2015)
His tenure was marked by strengthening collaborative efforts and fostering young talents.
Wayne Yokoyama (2008 – 2012)
Championed in-depth research initiatives and broadened SNI’s scientific horizons.
Miguel Lopez-Botet (2005 – 2008)
His leadership period witnessed pivotal discoveries and increased global collaborations.
William Seaman (2002 – 2005)
Oversaw a period of growth, ensuring that SNI remained at the forefront of natural immunity research.
Angela Santoni (1998 – 2002)
Steered SNI through a transformative period, laying the groundwork for future innovations.
Ron Herberman
As the first president, he set the foundation and vision for the Society for Natural Immunity.