CIVICs investigators met for the 2024 Annual Network Meeting (ANM) from August 4-7, hosted by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) in Bethesda, Maryland, including almost 370 attendees virtual and in-person. The meeting featured engaging discussion and presentations from investigators, trainees, and key staff on recent scientific achievements across CIVICs and facilitated conversations about key considerations for advancement of influenza vaccine science. Each CIVICs Vaccine Research Center, the Manufacturing Core, and the Clinical Cores shared highlights on a variety of topics, including:
- Important animal models and associated reagents
- Adjuvants to improve vaccine efficacy
- Reimagined correlates of protection against influenza infection and disease, like the role of mucosal immunity
The CIVICs Statistical Data Management and Coordination Center (SDMCC) also hosted a Tech and Training Bar to engage investigators about the CIVICs data sharing program, conduct trainings on SDMCC web resources, and share outreach materials, including the CIVICs infographics. Scientists can access publicly available datasets shared through CIVICs here.
The meeting concluded with the first-ever CIVICs industry day bringing together academic, interagency, and private sector experts in early and late-stage influenza vaccine development. Vaccine Centers provided overviews of CIVICs candidates advancing into manufacturing and clinical trials alongside presentations from industry representatives on commercial influenza vaccine pipelines. Panelists covered manufacturing challenges and opportunities to move candidates from the laboratory to the clinic.
To revisit the ANM, check out the SDMCC’s coverage on Twitter/X or LinkedIn. We’re looking forward to another successful year in 2025!