Our origins
CIPHE was born from a bold vision: to decode how genes shape immune functions and disease resistance. Following the global sequencing of the human genome, understanding gene function became the next grand scientific challenge. Recognizing the power of the mouse as a model organism, sharing 99% of its genes with humans, CIPHE set out to explore immune responses at an unprecedented scale.
The Founding Team
The Centre d’Immunophénomique (CIPHE) was founded by Bernard Malissen, together with a dedicated core team whose expertise laid the foundation for its success:
Frédéric Fiore, Jean-Pierre Gorvel, Dominique Nobile, Fabrice Roche Marin, Aurélie Philippe, Anne Gillet, Pierre Grenot, Marie Malissen, and Hervé Luche.
Inaugurated in December 2012, CIPHE emerged from the Mouse Immune System Functional Exploration Platform of the IBiSA consortium, previously hosted at the Centre d’Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy (CIML). From these beginnings, the team created a unique research and technology unit at the crossroads of Inserm (US12), Aix-Marseille University, and CNRS (UAR3367).
Building the Future
Under the coordination of Inserm’s regional delegation, the founders oversaw the creation of a 3,500 m² facility within the Marseille-Luminy Science and Technology Park, a state-of-the-art environment designed to advance immunogenetics research. Thanks to their efforts, CIPHE became a national reference center, integral to the PHENOMIN infrastructure and part of major international initiatives such as IMPC, EUCOMM, and INFRAFRONTIER.
A Lasting Legacy
The founding team’s vision continues to inspire the next generations of scientists. CIPHE’s alumni, researchers, engineers, and project leader, now contribute to immunology and biomedicine across academia, biotech, and healthcare industries worldwide. Their shared commitment to scientific rigor, innovation, and collaboration defines CIPHE’s enduring impact.
About us