The Institute of Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (iBRIC, an organisation of the Department of Biotechnology or DBT, Government of India)—Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI)—has organised the 2^nd THSTI Advanced Course in Vaccinology (TiVaC) along with Norway-based Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) from May 27–June 1, 2024, at the iBRIC-THSTI, Faridabad campus.

The 6-day course aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the concepts and steps involved in the design, development, and commercialisation of vaccines and is open to both Indian and international participants.

With the support from CEPI, 10 young researchers and professionals from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, Kenya, Egypt and Rwanda are attending the 2^nd TIVaC. The 1^st TiVaC was held in May 2023, at the iBRIC-THSTI campus.

The focus of the training would be on- basic biology and immunology of vaccine development; pre-clinical research; clinical trial design, including statistical processes; regulatory clearances and procedures; manufacturing; and quality compliance.

Training in the principles of vaccinology and immunology is a crucial aspect of appropriating global leadership in vaccine development. Keeping in view the same, the iBRIC-THSTI has opened the vaccinology course to young researchers and professionals from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

During the inauguration of the course, Dr G. Karthikeyan, Executive Director of the iBRIC-THSTI, stressed the need for training in advanced fields of research and the need for training programmes to enhance both institutional and national capacity in this area. He stated that “The iBRIC-THSTI would consider the possibility of setting up more short-term intense training programmes for national and international researchers.”.