AIVRT Consortium Meeting at QUB WWIEM - 18 & 19 June 2025
The AIVRT team recently gathered at the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen’s University Belfast, on Wednesday, 18 June and Thursday, 19 June 2025, at QUB WWIEM.
AIVRT Researchers from University College Dublin (UCD), Queen’s University Belfast (QUB), University College Cork (UCC), and Trinity College Dublin (TCD) gathered together to share insights, celebrate achievements, and discuss the latest advancements in vaccine research. The day kicked off with a warm welcome from Miguel A. Valvano, AIVRT North-Lead at QUB, after a delightful catch-up over tea and coffee. It was great to catch up in person.
The morning sessions were filled with enthusiasm and detailed insights as PhD and Postdoctoral researchers from Work Package 1 presented their findings on identifying novel vaccines against ESKAPE pathogens. Meanwhile, their colleagues from Work Package 2 focused on optimising mucosal, T-cell, and humoral responses to enhance vaccine efficacy. The collaboration between these two teams is paving the way for innovative solutions to combat infectious diseases. The discussions were lively and industrious, with insightful questions from Principal Investigators (PIs) and fellow researchers, creating a truly productive atmosphere. A big thank you to our chairs, Patrick Walsh, TCD and Aoife Fleming, QUB and congratulations to all the presenters for their fantastic work!
In the afternoon, the spotlight shifted to Work Package 3, where the research team showcased their efforts to enhance mucosal immunity through particulate vaccine formulations. Each presentation highlighted impressive progress and sparked stimulating conversations among attendees. Special thanks to Anne Moore for chairing this session, which further emphasised AIVRT's commitment to advancing the future of immunization.
Amidst the busy schedule, we took a moment to capture the spirit of teamwork with a group photo, reflecting the energy and collaboration within AIVRT. A heartfelt thank you to Miguel A. Valvano and Rachael Bell for graciously hosting us and providing the much-needed tea to keep our spirits high!
As the day progressed, AIVRT enjoyed a strong finish with engaging final sessions. Vicky Kett brought the consortium up to speed on Work Package 4, which explores alternative delivery routes for better vaccine responses. Following this, Caoimhe Shields and Najam Us Sahar led insightful discussions on tailored interventions for vaccine uptake in Ireland, as part of Work Package 5. These conversations were not only enlightening but also crucial in addressing vaccine hesitancy and promoting public health. A big thank you to Laura Sahm for chairing and to all contributors for their valuable insights. It was a day filled with stimulating discussions and essential work within the AIVRT mission
Amidst the busy schedule, we took a moment to capture the spirit of teamwork with a group photo, reflecting the energy and collaboration within AIVRT. A heartfelt thank you to Miguel A. Valvano and Rachael Bell for graciously hosting us and providing the much-needed tea to keep our spirits high!
The day concluded with engaging final sessions led by Vicky Kett, who updated the consortium on Work Package 4, exploring alternative delivery routes for improved vaccine responses. Caoimhe Shields and Najam Us Sahar then led insightful discussions on tailored interventions for vaccine uptake in Ireland through Work Package 5. These conversations were not only enlightening but also crucial in addressing vaccine hesitancy and promoting public health. A big thank you to Laura Sahm for chairing and to all contributors for their valuable insights.
Day 2
As we moved into Day 2 of our consortium meeting, the pace shifted to intra-group meetings focused on reviewing and strategising for upcoming outreach campaigns and future research initiatives. The lovely lunch organised by our hosts, Miguel A. Valvano and Rachael Bell, added a special touch to the day. Overall, it was another positive day filled with energy, discussions, and a shared commitment to advancing vaccine research.
We look forward to continuing this research journey together, making strides in the field of immunization and public health. Here’s to more productive days ahead!
