In the tapestry of scientific discovery, certain individuals leave an indelible mark not only through their research but through the lives they touch and inspire. Dr. Philip E. Auron was one such individual who, though he sadly lost his battle with cancer on October 13, 2024, at the age of 72 leaves a legacy of discovery in the early days of cytokine research and immeasurable impact resonating through the countless students, colleagues, and loved ones whose lives he enriched.
Born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, Phil exhibited an insatiable curiosity from an early age. A self-proclaimed Bostonian at heart, despite spending his last 22 years in Pittsburgh, Phil’s journey in science began with the purchase of a microscope at the age of 12. Phil’s academic path took him from Wilkes University to The Pennsylvania State University, where he earned a Ph.D. in Biochemistry. He was a Damon Runyon Scholar at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and later held faculty positions at Tufts University, Harvard Medical School, and the University of Pittsburgh, eventually serving as a professor and department chair at Duquesne University, Pittsburgh PA.
Phil’s groundbreaking work included sequencing IL-1 (Auron et al., Nucleotide sequence of human monocyte interleukin 1 precursor cDNA, Proc Natl Acad Sci, USA, 1984) a discovery that expanded scientific understanding and carried tangible medical applications. His patents, including those leading to the development of Ilaris (canakinumab), have alleviated suffering for patients worldwide. He co-founded Genetic Technology Corporation and Betagen Corporation, and served as a consultant to numerous companies.
To those who know him best, we remember Phil as a staunch defender of academic integrity, including work that helped secure the confidentiality of the peer-review process. Yet, of all his accomplishments, Phil was most proud of his role as a mentor. Through his guidance, generations of scientists found knowledge AND inspiration, carrying forward his commitment to scientific rigor and curiosity.
Outside his professional life, Phil was a man of many passions. He was a devoted photographer, capturing moments with an artist’s eye, and a talented singer with a repertoire ranging from operatic arias to advertising jingles. His encyclopedic memory and love of storytelling made him a captivating conversationalist, whether reciting Shakespeare or reflecting on scientific philosophy.
Auron is survived by his wife, Dr. Deborah Galson, a collaborator in both life and science; his children Zack (Kristen), Alex, and Rebecca; his brother Marshal (Kathy); and a network of extended family and friends. His warmth extended to the animal members of his family as well, with his cats Cori and Minty enjoying his affection as much as his human companions.
Colleagues’ Reflections
“Phil was insatiably curious – he was always the first in line at the microphone at Cytokine meetings, and he loved to talk about science, especially the exciting early days when cytokines were first being discovered and cloned. We will miss him,” said Dr. Sarah Gaffen, University of Pittsburgh (ICIS president).
Dr. David Macar, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences at Ohio Northern University and one of Phil’s last Ph.D. students, shares:
“Dr. Auron and his wife, Dr. Deborah Galson, will forever be the two greatest mentors of my life. It was my honor to present a portion of the final works conducted in the Auron Lab at the 2023 American Association of Immunologists conference. Dr. Auron and I were in the midst of editing manuscripts for these projects when his health began to decline, and he started treatment. His wife, Dr. Galson, also collaborated extensively on these studies. Together, she and I plan to submit Dr. Auron’s final manuscripts for review over the winter holiday and Spring semester.
“Phil’s philosophical approach to science, grounded in Karl Popper’s principles of falsifiability, shaped how I think about research. He was deeply invested in fostering intellectual curiosity and rigor. Even during his final days, his passion for science remained unshaken, inspiring those around him to pursue excellence. Forever a Star Trek fan, he often said to me—‘Make it so, Number One.’—captures his humor and his mentorship style. I owe my career to his wisdom and dedication.”
For those wishing to honor Phil’s memory, donations can be made to the Hillman Cancer Center, UPMC Cancer Pavilion, Suite 1B, 5150 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, or the Wilkes University General Scholarship Fund (https://www.wilkes.edu/give).