It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Prof. Dr. Alojz Ihan, M.D., specialist in clinical microbiology and Full Professor of Microbiology and Immunology at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana – an outstanding scientist, educator, physician, and writer who left an indelible mark on Slovenian medicine, science, and culture.
For several decades, Prof. Ihan played a key role in shaping the development of microbiology and immunology in Slovenia. As Head of the Academic Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, and Head of the Cellular Immunology Laboratory and the Department of Immunology at the Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, he led numerous researches, diagnostic, and educational activities. His work as head of the Cellular Immunology Laboratory focused on the diagnosis of congenital immune disorders and the study of immune responses to infections. As Head of the CAR-T Production Department, he also advanced innovative cellular therapies, including the preparation of genetically modified T lymphocytes for following cancer treatment.
As a lecturer, he introduced generations of students of medicine, pharmacy, microbiology, chemistry and chemical technology to the complex field of immunology, making a significant contribution to the development of modern biomedical education in Slovenia. He mentored many young researchers and was an important interlocutor and collaborator within the professional community in Slovenia and internationally.
Prof. Ihan was also actively involved in shaping professional guidelines and public health policies. Among other roles, he served as a member and Deputy Chair of the National Advisory Committee on Immunization at the National Institute of Public Health and as a member of European Adult Immunization Board Group.
His work extended far beyond the strictly scientific domain. He was an exceptionally prolific writer, essayist, and poet, and the author of numerous popular sciences works that helped bring understanding of the immune system, health, and modern medicine closer to the general public. For his literary achievements, he received several awards, including the Prešeren Fund Award.
Prof. Ihan’s bibliography includes more than 1,500 bibliographic units, over 120 scientific articles in international journals, and numerous professional and literary books. His pedagogical contributions also include the authorship and editorship of several fundamental textbooks. He was the founder and Editor-in-Chief of the Publishing Department of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana. His work will continue to inspire researchers, students, and readers for years to come.
With his knowledge, intellectual breadth, dedication to science and culture, and exceptional human warmth, he left a profound mark on many colleagues, students, and friends.
His legacy will remain permanently inscribed in Slovenian science, medicine, and literature.
We extend our sincere condolences to his family, colleagues, and all who knew and admired him.
Prof. Dr. Miroslav Petrovec, M.D.,
Head of the Institute and colleagues from Institute of Microbiology and Immunology