La Jolla Institute for Immunology has launched a $55 million fundraising campaign targeting vaccine research, sex-based immune differences and flexible scientific funding.

The nonprofit research institute, based in UC San Diego's Research Park, announced the campaign at its inaugural President's Awards Celebration on Friday, Oct. 23, at The Sound in Del Mar. Board Chair and Campaign Chair Tom Tullie said the five-year effort has already reached 80% of its $55 million goal.

"We've made tremendous progress, but there's more to do," Tullie said. "Reaching our goal will take a community of people who believe in the power of science …"

LJI President and CEO Erica Ollmann Saphire, who led the celebration, said the campaign was developed with faculty and stakeholders. She said it targets areas where the institute sees its greatest impact on human health.

The effort, called The Campaign for LJI, directs funding to three areas.

The President's Priority Fund provides unrestricted money for early-stage research projects and scientist training. The Center for Sex-Based Differences in the Immune System studies how immune responses differ between males and females at the cellular level. The Center for Vaccine Innovation brings together immunologists, bioengineers and vaccine specialists to develop longer-lasting vaccines.

According to the institute's campaign website, the goal is to raise $55 million by 2028. The institute said 100% of its board of directors has contributed.

The celebration also honored three sets of donors for their support of the institute. John and Susan Major received the President's Visionary Award. Richard S. "Dick" and Karna Bodman received the President's Legacy Award.

Biotech entrepreneur James Mackay received the President's Convergence Award, recognizing his work translating laboratory discoveries into patient therapies. Mackay has guided drug development programs and built biotechnology companies that advanced new treatments into patient care, according to the institute.

Co-chair Magda Marquet and former board chair François Ferré organized the event alongside Saphire, who has led the institute since 2021.

The campaign still needs roughly $11 million to reach its $55 million target by 2028.