SMS Research Foundation Announces Leadership Transition for the Scientific Advisory Panel

SMS Research Foundation Announces Leadership Transition for the Scientific Advisory Panel

Christoper Iannuzzi – left – steps down as Chair of Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP) after 15 years. Filip Sebesta – right – will guide the Panel into its next chapter of growth and impact.

As a founding member of the SAP, Chris has been instrumental in shaping the Foundation’s scientific vision and guiding its research strategy from the very beginning. Under his leadership, the SAP has driven significant growth in scientific discovery and deepened our collective understanding of Smith-Magenis Syndrome. His collaborative spirit, scientific insight, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting mark on both the Foundation and the SMS community.

We are pleased to announce that Filip Šebesta will assume the role of SAP Chair, leading the panel into its next chapter of growth and innovation. Filip brings extensive experience in scientific and technical leadership, having most recently directed advanced security and engineering initiatives at Meta and Microsoft. His ability to unite multidisciplinary teams around complex challenges—and his passion for innovation—will be invaluable as the Foundation continues to expand its research impact.

“Thank you, Chris, for your leadership and service to the Foundation. It’s an honor to follow you in this role. I look forward to learning from each of you and building on the strong momentum we’ve created together.”
— Filip Šebesta

Please join us in expressing our deepest gratitude to Chris Iannuzzi for his outstanding leadership and in welcoming Filip Šebesta as he steps into this important new role.