Ragon Institute About The Ragon Institute
The Ragon Institute is the collaborative effort of Mass General Brigham, MIT, and Harvard, the vision of which is to harness the immune system to prevent and cure human diseases. Founded in 2009 through the support of the Phillip T. and Susan M. Ragon Foundation, the Ragon Institute’s novel strategy breaks down barriers between research fields to unite scientists, clinicians, and engineers from diverse backgrounds by building strong collaborations between often-siloed academic disciplines. Although the Ragon Institute began with an early emphasis on HIV/AIDS, our focus has expanded in order to apply all available knowledge to other diseases of global importance. Discovery is catalyzed by providing our faculty with flexible funding, thereby often markedly accelerating scientific discovery. An interdisciplinary approach allows scientists, clinicians, and engineers to work collaboratively and move beyond traditional boundaries.
Built at the center of Kendall Square in Cambridge and at the intersection of Mass General Brigham, MIT, and Harvard, the Ragon Institute has played a vital role in COVID-19 vaccine development, explores the rising health challenges of climate change, and conducts research on how to prepare for the next pandemic. Ragon faculty are engaged in challenges as varied as developing vaccines for tuberculosis and HIV, cures for malaria, the development of a universal flu vaccine, and therapies for cancer and autoimmune disorders — with the potential to impact billions of lives.
Our Story through Time
From working on the frontlines of the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s to our partnerships in Africa and the rapid growth of our Institute — explore the storied history of the Ragon.
Governance and Leadership
Governance Board
The Governance Board is the decision-making body with ultimate authority over the Institute, responsible for its supervision and operation. The four voting members are the presidents of Mass General Brigham, MIT, Harvard, and founding benefactor Phillip Ragon (or his delegate).
Institute Board
The Institute Board acts at the direction of the Governance Board to supervise the operations and affairs of the Institute. It consists of eight voting members, including representatives from MIT, Harvard Medical School, and Mass General Brigham, Ragon Governance Board representatives, and the Institute’s Director.
Scientific Advisory Board
The Ragon Institute’s Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) is composed of international experts in immunology, infectious diseases, and related fields. Meeting annually, the SAB provides strategic guidance on the Institute’s research goals, evaluates scientific progress, and identifies new opportunities for innovation.
Our Research
We recognize that significant progress arises from the collective effort of various scientific fields. Through fostering a collaborative and cross-disciplinary environment, we aim to achieve transformative outcomes in global health, pushing the boundaries of science to find cures and improve lives — embodying our commitment to collaboration, research, and curing diseases.
Outreach Programs
Ragon International
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 current South African programs, including FRESH and ITEACH, are prime examples of how we integrate cutting-edge science with social good in regions most in need.
Education & Outreach
The Office of Education and Outreach supports the Institute’s mission and its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion by offering programs such as RISE and PRISM to students from the Greater Boston community, setting a foundation for the next generation of researchers.
Support Our Vital Research
As a non-profit institution, the Ragon relies on the generosity of our benefactors to advance our world-changing research. Whether giving to labs at the Ragon, outreach programs in the Boston area, or research programs in South Africa, one of the greatest catalysts in going from novel ideas to treatments and cures is flexible philanthropic support from donors — and your gift could make all the difference.