Small Team, Big Funding: One Research Hub’s $4. 2B Gamble

The upcoming ballot includes a measure that could funnel up to $8.4 billion into scientific research focused on the immune system. Half of that money is earmarked for a single research institute if it meets strict conditions. The proposal aims to accelerate treatments for Alzheimer’s, cancer and heart disease.

The chosen entity is the California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy (CIII). It is linked to UCLA and occupies a 235,000‑square‑foot facility in West Los Angeles. Under the affiliation agreement, any drugs or technologies the staff creates must generate a 7.5 % royalty for UCLA.

The institute’s staffing plan looks ambitious. It promised to have about 51 workers by last year, including six executives, five top scientists and 40 support staff. It also expects to add roughly 90 more people between 2025 and 2027. As of last month, only three people are on board: a chief operating officer, a general counsel and a scientific advisor. The search for a director is still underway.

Supporters argue the bond is needed because federal grants have been cut repeatedly. Critics say the design ignores existing university and hospital labs and that the state should fund research more broadly. The Yes on Prop. 38 campaign says the recipient must be ready to move quickly while keeping high standards.

The main backer of the institute is a billionaire who wrote the ballot language and funds the campaign heavily. Public records show the institute’s five‑year business plan was part of the UCLA partnership signed in August 2024. If the measure passes, the institute could receive about $4.2 billion to pursue its mission.