Ragon Institute
The Ragon Institute of Mass General Brigham, MIT, and Harvard brings together scientists, clinicians, and engineers from distinct fields to harness the potential of the immune system to prevent and cure human diseases.
Apr 22, 2025 Research Highlights
A new study co-authored by Shiv Pillai, MD PhD, reveals two distinct populations of human memory B cells that persist long-term after vaccination or infection. Published in Cell Reports, the research identifies canonical memory B cells, originating from germinal centers, and a newly characterized durable population known as DN1 B cells. The study found that DN1 […]
These three words embody the spirit of what we represent at the Ragon Institute of Mass General Brigham, MIT, and Harvard. Our approach draws on the wealth of cross-disciplinary knowledge created by our collaborative approach — understanding that progress comes not from silos of expertise, but from working together across scientific fields. The three thematic programs of the Ragon Institute focus our work into distinct yet overlapping areas that move the field of immunology forward.
Revealing mechanisms of immune control and disease pathogenesis to prepare for, and protect against, global health threats.
Bringing observations from the bedside to the bench and back, worldwide.
Leveraging discoveries to develop cutting-edge diagnostics and treatments.
The Ragon Institute brings together researchers from across Mass General Brigham, MIT, and Harvard whose expertise ranges from developing new tools to studying cell interactions to identifying potential cures for the HIV epidemic. Our faculty includes our Core Members, who are primarily located at the Ragon. Alongside them are our Associate Members, frequent collaborators whose work is done at another institute, and Steering Committee Members, collaborators who also provide high-level scientific guidance to the Ragon.
Our commitment to immunology and research extends beyond our home in Cambridge. Global health is a pillar of our research and outreach, and the Ragon International programs reflect our longstanding commitment to health equity around the world. Our South African programs include FRESH and ITEACH — with more to come in future. Each combines basic science with social good in the places that need it most.
The Office of Education and Outreach supports the Institute’s mission by offering programs such as RISE and PRISM to students from the Greater Boston community, setting a foundation for the next generation of researchers.
As a non-profit institution, the Ragon Institute relies on the generosity of our donors to advance our world-changing research. Your support provides our faculty and postdoctoral researchers with the flexibility to pursue promising avenues for treatments and cures for some of the 21st century’s most pressing health challenges. Whether giving to labs at the Ragon, outreach programs in the Boston area, or research programs in South Africa, you make a positive impact on what we do.
Whether you are an early-career researcher looking for the next step in your career, a physician-scientist with decades of experience, or a seasoned administrative professional, the Ragon is committed to fostering a unique and welcoming work environment for all employees.
Our new building supports the Institute’s research to harness the power of the human immune system to prevent and cure disease. The 323,000 square-foot space, located in the heart of Kendall Square at 600 Main Street, includes lab and work space and is LEED Gold certified by the US Green Building Council. This new space represents the Ragon’s world-class research, and Cambridge’s exceptional biomedical ecosystem, with a beautiful, functional design that includes a childcare center and reserves a third of the site for open, public-use spaces.