Philip E. Auron, Ph.D.
October 13, 2024

PHILIP E. AURON, Ph.D.: Age 72, passed away Sunday, October 13, 2024 after a five-month battle with esophageal cancer. Born in Wilkes-Barre, PA in 1952, he spent many years in the Boston area. Although Phil lived in Pittsburgh for the last twenty-two years, he always considered himself a Bostonian. At the time of his passing, he was surrounded by family and friends.

Phil had a deep love of science from his early years and bought his first microscope when he was 12. He turned that love into a lifelong quest, vocation and avocation. Educated at Wilkes University, he received his Ph.D. in Biochemistry from The Pennsylvania State University. He was a Damon Runyon postdoctoral fellow at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Assistant Professor at Tufts University, Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, Professor at the University of Pittsburgh, and Professor and former chair of the Department of Biological Sciences at Duquesne University. 

He was a founder and former Board member of two molecular analysis companies, Genetic Technology Corporation and Betagen Corporation as well as a consultant to numerous corporations. Phil was noted for sequencing Interleukin 1, the cornerstone of several of his patents, including one which led to the development of the FDA approved drug Ilaris (canakinumab) used in the treatment of arthritis and other diseases. Phil frequently collaborated and published with his wife, Dr. Deborah Galson. Phil was also involved in a landmark legal case that secured the confidentiality of the academic peer review process. But, Phil was most proud of the many students and postdoctoral fellows that he taught, advised, mentored and guided through their research in his years as an educator - his legacy is enriched by their work.

Phil's love of science was bolstered by his endless curiosity. When conversing with friends, if he was missing some information, he would immediately pull out his phone to investigate and firm up his knowledge base. This applied to all matters of culture, art, archeology, social history, and photography. Phil was a dedicated photographer, ever present at family gatherings, and he leaves behind thousands of unedited photos. Alongside his love of art, Phil was an entertainer. He possessed a marvelous singing voice and perfect pitch. He could remember any tune he ever heard, from arias to advertisement jingles. He had incredible memory recall and was always ready to recite one of Lincoln's speeches or a monologue from Shakespeare. He also greatly enjoyed riding his bicycle, even into his later years. He had a great sense of humor which sustained those around him and was still in evidence even in his last few days.

Phil was the son of the late Ben and Frances Auron of Swoyersville, PA and is survived by his wife Deborah Galson, his children Zack and wife Kristen (New York), Alex and Rebecca (both of Pittsburgh), his brother Marshal and wife Kathy (Charlotte), as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws, and their descendants, as well as several others that also regarded him as their "Papa". He was a committed cat lover (and secret dog lover), dedicating his love and attention to several animal family members over the years. He will be missed by his two loving cats, Cori and Minty.

Phil was a member of Temple Ohav Shalom and Beth Hamedrash Hagodol-Beth Jacob Synagogue. The funeral service will be held at Temple Ohav Shalom on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at 11 AM. Visitation one hour prior to service (10 AM - 11 AM). Interment Beth Shalom Cemetery. Shiva will be observed at the Auron residence where family and friends will be received.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hillman Cancer Center, UPMC Cancer Pavilion, Suite 1B, 5150 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, or the Wilkes University General Scholarship Fund (https://www.wilkes.edu/give). Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. www.schugar.com

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I extend my deepest sympathy to Deb and the kids. Phil was my research mentor and friend, I was so privileged to have the opportunity to learn from such a gifted person. Yes, he was so very bright, but it's the person he was that made him special to me. The world is less without his presence and I am thankful for the time I was able to spent with him.

By Jason Boch - October 28, 2024

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Dear Deb, I was deeply saddened to learn about Phil's passing. As one of the many students and postdocs he trained, I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from him. Phil was not only a smart and knowledgeable mentor, but also one of the kindest and most supportive individuals I’ve ever worked with. I will always cherish the wisdom and guidance he provided. Sincerely, Zhiyong

By Zhiyong Yang - October 24, 2024

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There aren't enough words to express how wonderful this man was. He had such a positive presence that always filled the room. He was smart, funny and full of life! His salmon recipe will forever be a family favorite and I have adopted that recipe and labeled it as such...Phil's Salmon. 😊 He will be terribly missed. My heart goes out to the entire family. He left you all strong and prepared to carry on his legacy!

By Dianna - October 23, 2024

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Phil was a fine mentor. He was a senior patrol leader I believe of my cub pack. The Aaron's influence in so many youth made us all better Americans. Blessing to Phil's family!

By David Baloga - October 19, 2024

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I'm so sorry to hear both of Phil's illness and of his passing. I had the pleasure of working with him both at MGH and later at BIDMC. He always had a smile and a funny comment. I will remember him both as a brilliant researcher and a dedicated father. I'll be keeping him in my prayers. Sending you a hug, Deb. <3

By Cathy Manning - October 17, 2024

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Dear Deb, really sorry to hear. Yes, Phil was super smart, but I enjoyed that he was super funny and fun. I found out from Jip, was sooo sad to hear.

By Dan Tenen - October 17, 2024

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My condolences to your family. My initial awareness of Phil was to ask about him, “Who is that person who always asks the best question in seminar?” while at Duquesne. Thank you for the testimony to his life. This helps me understand the person I knew and respected as Dr. Phil Auron better.

By Patrick Flaherty - October 15, 2024

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Dear Deb, I am deeply sorry for your loss. Phil was a truly remarkable person who touched the lives of so many, and his memory will always be cherished. Sending you all my love and deepest condolences.

By Daniela Petrusca - October 15, 2024

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My sincerest condolences to you and your family. Dr. Auron was one of my favorite professors during my PhD career at Duquesne. I rotated through his lab and enjoyed the research he conducted. He was brilliant and always had something interesting to say. I specifically remember a 45 minute conversation with him about centrifuges. Although I did not join his lab, my interest in his research did not wane. He will be missed.

By Tara Allison - October 15, 2024

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Dear Deb, Words cannot express how much sadness this news brings me. Though it has been years since we have connected, you and Phil have always been in mine and Melissa's hearts. I appreciate how he brought me into his world of biochemistry and shared his excitement for what was possible. His support of my career elevated me to a different level (not to mention he showed me how to grill salmon properly for our family gatherings and how a Kosher kitchen is kept :). I longingly look back at the good old days when our families became friends back in Framingham, MA. I am sure all of his past students share fond memories like these. Phil was a true mentsh and I am honored to have known him both professionally and personally. Deb, we wish we could be there to help support you in person. But know you are in our thoughts and that we are out there thinking about you, your family, and Phil and how you touched our lives. My sincerest condolences and a big hug, Jim

By Jim Listman - October 15, 2024

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The Dedrick family sends their condolences. I will remember Dr. Auron as someone who passionately loved his profession and the sciences.

By Jeff Dedrick - October 15, 2024

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It was a pleasure to know Phil. He was a very kind, intelligent, and wise man. I will never forget our conversations about science fiction (especially Star Trek), science, history, Northeastern PA, and Judaism. He was supportive of all of his students, and it was a pleasure to learn so much from him. He contributed so much to the world as a scientist, mentor, and human being. My condolences on your loss.

By Brandon Dimick - October 14, 2024

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Deb, I'm sorry to hear about Phil's passing so soon. I'm sure you took care of him wonderfully through this difficult time. You are a very strong person, and I send my support and comfort.

By Deb Veis - October 14, 2024

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Dear Deb, I heard the shocking news this morning from Chris Milcarek. I had not even heard that Phil had been sick and I understand it was not for that long either. I am so sorry. He and I did not overlap in MGB, but we had many very friendly interactions and scientific exchanges and we commiserated every now and then about certain SOM personalities that made our lives less than pleasant. He will always be in my most pleasant memory. I am out of town and will not be able to show my support at the viewing and the funeral but please know that I am thinking about you and your family during these very difficult days.

By Olja Finn - October 14, 2024

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Dear Deborah, We are deeply saddened by your loss. Our hearts go out to you in your time of sorrow. Please accept our deepest condolences. May peace and comfort find you at this difficult time. Gutian and Julia

By Gutian and Julia - October 14, 2024

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Sorry for the loss of your husband Dr. Galson. Thoughts and prayers for you and your family.

By Lola Thompson - October 14, 2024

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Dear Deb, We are so sorry for your loss! David absolutely loved Phil and talked about him for 6 years non stop. Phil really took David under his wing! As did you! We were so sad to hear about the cancer and Phil’s battle with the disease he spent his life trying to find a cure for! David had the so many wonderful stories about Phil that he would share with us! Sending you lots of love and hugs!

By Mary & Ernie Macat - October 14, 2024

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Dear Deb, I am very sorry hear to your loss. Please accept my most sincere condolences. Onur

By Onur Alver - October 14, 2024

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