School of Infection & Immunity

Professor Harry De Koning stands beside a projection screen while delivering a presentation at a European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) workshop on drug development.

The School of Infection & Immunity's Professor Harry De Koning recently took part in two significant European engagements, contributing to both research policy and academic leadership.

On Friday, 10 July, Professor De Koning joined European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) colleagues and stakeholders for a conference in Brussels.

As Knowledge Transfer Lead for the COST Action 21111: One Health drugs against parasitic vector borne diseases in Europe and beyond, he presented the Position Paper on integrating early eco-toxicity testing into drug discovery and development workflows.

Professor De Koning authored the first of four pillars within the Position Paper, drawing upon two international surveys exploring knowledge, attitudes and practices relating to One Health principles and the environmental impacts of veterinary medicines.

The surveys received 1,065 valid responses from researchers and veterinary practitioners across 35 countries and were translated into 32 languages.

Earlier that week, on Monday, 6 and Tuesday, 7 July, Professor De Koning also served on a panel of senior European academics responsible for interviewing, selecting and appointing a new Professor of Parasitology at the University of Barcelona.

  • A report from the Brussels stakeholder event will be shared at a later date, to coincide with the public launch of the position paper.

First published: 21 July 2026