Dr. Crystal L. Mackall Honored with Prestigious 2025 AACR-CRI Lloyd J. Old Award in Cancer Immunology

Recognition rarely comes without resilience. For Dr. Crystal L. Mackall, the road to revolutionizing cancer treatment has never been linear—but it’s been extraordinary. Guided by scientific brilliance and an unrelenting commitment to bringing hope where there once was none, she has redefined what’s possible in cancer immunology. Today, that journey is being honored on a global stage—Dr. Mackall has been named the recipient of the 2025 AACR-CRI Lloyd J. Old Award in Cancer Immunology, one of the most prestigious accolades in the field.

The award, presented by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) and the Cancer Research Institute (CRI), will be formally given during the AACR Annual Meeting in April 2025 in Chicago. It’s a moment of celebration, not just for Dr. Mackall, but for the countless lives her work has touched.

Photo from CRI

A Calling to Heal: Where It All Began

Driven by a deep sense of purpose, Dr. Mackall began her career with a desire to understand the immune system’s role in fighting cancer. Over time, her curiosity evolved into groundbreaking research that would help reshape cancer therapy as we know it.

As the Ernest and Amelia Gallo Family Professor at Stanford University, she leads the Stanford Center for Cancer Cell Therapy and the Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy. But titles alone don’t tell the whole story. Her work has had a real, human impact—especially in pediatric cancer, where she has helped develop therapies that are saving children’s lives.

The Breakthroughs: Changing What’s Possible

One of Dr. Mackall’s earliest discoveries revealed the essential role of the cytokine IL-7 in T-cell homeostasis—a fundamental insight that changed how we understand immune recovery after chemotherapy. But she didn’t stop there.

She became a pioneer in CAR T-cell therapy, leading trials that pushed the boundaries of what these engineered immune cells could do. Thanks to her efforts, durable and effective CAR T-cell treatments are now a reality for patients with both blood cancers and solid tumors—offering hope where there was once none.

“Dr. Mackall’s research has redefined the possibilities of immunotherapy,” said AACR CEO Margaret Foti. “Her commitment to translating science into lifesaving therapies is truly extraordinary.”

Photo from med.stanford.edu

Beyond the Lab: A Mentor, a Leader, a Voice

Science is only part of Dr. Mackall’s legacy. She’s also a leader and advocate who has shaped the cancer research landscape through mentorship, committee work, and educational efforts. A longtime member of AACR, she has served in various leadership roles and contributed to key publications and initiatives.

Her accolades include the AACR-St. Baldrick’s Award for Pediatric Cancer Research and the ASCO Pediatric Oncology Award. She is a member of the National Academy of Medicine, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer Academy, and the Association of American Physicians—each recognition a testament to her wide-reaching influence.

“Her work embodies the spirit of this award and inspires the next generation of cancer immunologists,” added Dr. Alicia Zhou, CEO of CRI.

Photo from ludwigcancerresearch.org

A Moment to Reflect, a Legacy to Celebrate

Dr. Mackall’s story is more than one of scientific achievement—it’s about compassion, perseverance, and the power of believing in a better future. Her upcoming award lecture, scheduled for April 29 in Chicago, will be an opportunity to reflect on her journey and share insights that continue to shape the future of cancer care.

In honoring Dr. Mackall, we are reminded that behind every lab discovery is a person driven to heal. Her story is a beacon of inspiration for scientists, clinicians, and patients alike—a reminder that progress is possible when passion meets purpose.

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