Jacques M. Chiller Endowed Scholarship (Department of Microbiology)
EST. 1998
Please address your letter to:
The Chiller family and other contributors to the Jacques M. Chiller Endowed Scholarship Fund
Jacques M. Chiller, Ph. D., was a vibrant and passionate individual whose fascination with biology and dedication to scientific discovery allowed him to become an internationally renowned expert in immunology.
Dr. Chiller was a native of Paris, France, and came to North America when he was 11 years old. After attending secondary schools in Canada and the U.S., he entered the University of Washington where he received his bachelor’s (1961), master’s (1966), and Ph.D. (1968) degrees. While completing his bachelor’s degree in zoology, he became fascinated with the unanswered questions in the young field of immunology. He then proceeded to dedicate himself to this field, earning master’s and doctorate degrees in microbiology with an emphasis on immunology. He conducted pioneering immunological research as a member of the Scripps Clinic Research Institute in La Jolla, California, and at the National Jewish Hospital and Research Center in Denver where he was also a professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.
Dr. Chiller’s work led to appointments as Vice-President of Eli Lilly Laboratories in 1989 and later as president and CEO of DNAX Research Institute from 1992 to 1998, where he directed scientists toward discoveries leading to applications in pharmaceuticals.
His contagious enthusiasm radiated around the globe through the numerous scientists and students he generously advised, and who continue to further understanding in the biological sciences.
Dr. Chiller had a special interest in supporting students from diverse backgrounds. The Chiller family recognizes that the University shares this commitment to a student population that includes individuals of varying ages, genders, races, national origins, talents, etc., and those from underrepresented populations and/or economically disadvantaged backgrounds.