IFRA 2024 Scientific Committee

Prof. Georg Schett (MD)
(Erlangen, Germany)

Prof. Lars Klareskog (MD, PhD)
(Stokholm, Sweden)

Prof. Zhanguo Li (MD, PhD)
(Beijing, China)

Prof. Kazuhiko Yamamoto (MD, PhD)
(Yokohama, Japan)
Prof. Georg Schett is an international expert in rheumatology and inflammation research, recognized for his contributions to understanding and treating rheumatoid arthritis. As the head of the Department of Internal Medicine 3 – Rheumatology and Immunology at FAU, his research primarily focuses on the inflammatory processes and bone remodeling in rheumatoid arthritis. Prof. Schett has significantly advanced the understanding of osteoclasts and osteoblasts in disease progression, leading to new therapeutic approaches aimed at preventing joint damage and enhancing patient quality of life.

His role as the host of the International Forum of Rheumatoid Arthritis (IFRA) 2024 in Bamberg is a direct result of his expertise and international reputation. Prof. Schett’s leadership and experience in organizing scientific conferences make him an ideal figure to lead this symposium. He aims to create a platform for professionals worldwide to share and discuss the latest advancements in rheumatology, fostering a productive dialogue among experts. His presence ensures that the forum will be a pivotal event for those involved in rheumatology research and practice.

Prof. Lars Klareskog is a distinguished expert in the field of rheumatology, celebrated for his groundbreaking work on the genetic and environmental factors contributing to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). He is a professor at the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden, where he has made significant strides in understanding the immunological basis of RA, particularly focusing on how genetic predispositions interact with environmental triggers like smoking to influence disease onset and progression.

Prof. Klareskog’s research has been pivotal in shifting the scientific community’s perspective towards a more holistic view of RA, emphasizing the interplay between genes and lifestyle factors. His extensive involvement in international collaborations and his role in influential clinical trials have established him as a leader in the field, making him a fitting host for the IFRA 2024. His ability to foster global discussions on innovative treatments positions him uniquely to lead this major symposium, facilitating the exchange of ideas and advancing research and patient care in rheumatology.

Prof. Zhanguo Li is a distinguished clinician scientist in rheumatology based in Beijing, China. He is known for his innovative work on the pathogenesis and treatment of autoimmune diseases, particularly rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Sjögren’s syndrome. Prof. Li has been pivotal in developing novel therapeutic strategies that target specific pathways involved in autoimmune responses, significantly advancing patient outcomes in China and globally.

As the host of the annual IFRA symposiuim, Prof. Li brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the conference. His leadership not only enhances the scientific rigor of the meetings but also ensures a broad, inclusive dialogue among global experts in rheumatology. Under his guidance, the IFRA meeting serves as a pivotal platform for showcasing cutting-edge research and fostering collaborations that push the boundaries of what’s possible in autoimmune disease management and research. His role as host underscores his commitment to advancing rheumatology both in China and worldwide.

Prof. Kazuhiko Yamamozo is a leading clinician scientist in the field of rheumatology research at the RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences in Japan.

His extensive work primarily focuses on the genetic underpinnings of autoimmune diseases, especially rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Prof. Yamamoto has been instrumental in identifying key genetic factors that contribute to the susceptibility and progression of RA, leading to more targeted and effective treatments.

His research also delves into the molecular mechanisms that drive autoimmune responses, aiming to develop innovative therapeutic strategies that can interrupt these processes at various stages. Prof. Yamamoto’s leadership in large-scale genomic studies has not only advanced the scientific community’s understanding of RA but has also catalyzed international collaborations, pushing forward the frontiers of personalized medicine in rheumatology.

Prof. Yamamoto’s role as one of the hosts for the IFRA 2024 underscores his stature within the global rheumatology community. His expertise in genetics and molecular biology brings a critical dimension to the forum, highlighting the importance of cutting-edge research in shaping the future of RA treatment. His involvement ensures that IFRA 2024 will be a cornerstone event for exchanging innovative ideas and fostering international cooperation among rheumatology professionals, aligning with his commitment to driving advancements in the field through collaborative and interdisciplinary approaches.