Detecting virus threats earlier
The MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research (CVR) is playing a leading role in a major new European doctoral training programme designed to improve the early detection of emerging viral threats and strengthen preparedness for future pandemics.
The European Commission has awarded €4.4 million through the Horizon Europe Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network programme to the international DETECTIVE (Data-driven Excellence in Training of Epidemiological, Clinical, Technological and Innovative Virus Experts) consortium.
The programme will train 14 doctoral researchers across Europe in cutting-edge approaches to viral detection, surveillance, data science, diagnostics and outbreak response.
At the CVR, Dr Ana Filipe, Head of Viral Genomics, and Professor Antonia Ho, Professor and Honorary Consultant of Infectious Diseases, will each lead a doctoral research project.
Dr Ana Filipe said: "Rapid advances in genomics and data science are transforming how we detect and track viruses. Through DETECTIVE, we will equip early-career researchers with the skills needed to translate complex biological and surveillance data into actionable insights that can support public health and clinical decision-making."
Professor Antonia Ho said: "The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the critical importance of integrating clinical research, genomics, epidemiology and public health surveillance to understand and respond to infectious disease threats. DETECTIVE provides a unique opportunity to train the next generation of interdisciplinary researchers while developing innovative approaches that will strengthen our preparedness for future viral outbreaks."
The MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research (CVR) is internationally recognised for its expertise in human viral diseases and viruses at the human-animal interface. As one of Europe’s leading centres for virology research, the CVR brings together scientists, and clinicians to address global viral threats through collaborative, multidisciplinary research.
By combining expertise in virology, clinical research, genomics, and data science, DETECTIVE will help create a new generation of researchers capable of bridging laboratory science, healthcare and public health. The programme aims to develop new tools, standards and decision-making frameworks that will strengthen Europe’s ability to anticipate, detect and respond to emerging viral threats quickly and in a coordinated manner.