Oncode Institute is proud to congratulate Oncode Investigator Sjoerd van der Burg (Leiden University Medical Center & Oncode Institute) on receiving the 2025 Pedro J. Romero Service to JITC Award.
The award recognizes Dr. van der Burg’s longstanding and impactful commitment to the Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer (JITC), the official journal of SITC. Van der Burg has played a foundational role in the development of JITC since its inception in 2013, initially serving as an associate editor. Over the years, he rapidly took on increasingly senior roles, including Deputy Section Editor (2020), Section Editor for Basic Tumor Immunology (2021), and Interim Deputy Editor-in-Chief in 2023. He currently serves as Deputy Editor-in-Chief, a role in which he continues to advance the journal’s scientific mission and impact.
Reflecting on this recognition, van der Burg said:
“To judge the quality of other scientists’ work and decide on its publication is a big responsibility. It is also rewarding as you help to shape and improve the science reported, and it is exciting as you see important new data almost first. This recognition by my colleagues in the field honors my commitment in trying to do a good job.”
The Pedro J. Romero Service to JITC Award was established in honour of Dr. Romero’s instrumental work in launching and nurturing JITC. It is awarded annually to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to the journal. Dr. van der Burg's deep editorial leadership and scientific insight have made him a pillar of the journal’s ongoing success and growth, and this award acknowledges his crucial contributions.
Leisha A. Emens, immediate Past President of SITC and Chair of the SITC Executive Council, shared the following on behalf of the awards committee:
“Van der Burg’s dedication to advancing tumor immunology and strengthening JITC’s position in the field exemplifies the spirit of the award,” said the SITC awards committee. “His commitment to editorial excellence and his leadership during a pivotal transition period have left a lasting mark.”
Van der Burg will be formally recognized during SITC’s 40th Anniversary Annual Meeting, taking place November 5–9, 2025, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland.
This honour not only underscores Van der Burg’s individual excellence but also highlights the depth of scientific leadership within Oncode Institute. We are proud to support researchers like Sjoerd who are shaping the future of cancer immunotherapy and fostering collaboration in cancer research.
For more information on SITC and the 2025 Annual Awards, visit