Arthropod-borne infections
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Glasgow
Abstract
Dr Alain Kohl and Dr Emma Thomson, Lead Investigators, Dr Emilie Pondeville and Prof Massimo Palmarini as Collaborators, MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research (CVR), University of Glasgow.
Urbanisation, agricultural practices, mass transportation and changing interactions between humans and their environment create unprecedented opportunities for viruses to emerge and spread globally among human populations. Many emerging viruses are transmitted to vertebrate hosts, including humans by arthropod vectors, such as mosquitoes. “Arboviruses” can replicate in both vertebrates and arthropods and thus overcome a diverse array of hostile antiviral responses from the mosquitoes and the mammalian hosts. In this programme we aim to understand the fundamental processes governing the immune responses of mosquitoes to arboviruses. These studies will increase our understanding of vector “competence” (i.e. the ability of insect vectors to transmit certain arboviruses) and facilitate the development of novel control measures. Studies on arboviruses and other emerging viruses will also be conducted in collaboration with the Uganda Virus Research Institute in Uganda, where several emergent viruses with epidemic potential have been identified in the past. We aim to identify viruses and other pathogens causing febrile illness in the human population living in 3 geographically distinct regions of Uganda (North West, Central and South West districts).
Urbanisation, agricultural practices, mass transportation and changing interactions between humans and their environment create unprecedented opportunities for viruses to emerge and spread globally among human populations. Many emerging viruses are transmitted to vertebrate hosts, including humans by arthropod vectors, such as mosquitoes. “Arboviruses” can replicate in both vertebrates and arthropods and thus overcome a diverse array of hostile antiviral responses from the mosquitoes and the mammalian hosts. In this programme we aim to understand the fundamental processes governing the immune responses of mosquitoes to arboviruses. These studies will increase our understanding of vector “competence” (i.e. the ability of insect vectors to transmit certain arboviruses) and facilitate the development of novel control measures. Studies on arboviruses and other emerging viruses will also be conducted in collaboration with the Uganda Virus Research Institute in Uganda, where several emergent viruses with epidemic potential have been identified in the past. We aim to identify viruses and other pathogens causing febrile illness in the human population living in 3 geographically distinct regions of Uganda (North West, Central and South West districts).
Technical Summary
Urbanisation, agricultural practices, mass transportation and changing interactions between humans and their environment create unprecedentend opportunities for viruses to emerge and spread globally among human populations. Many emerging viruses are transmitted to vertebrate hosts, including humans by arthropod vectors, such as mosquitoes. “Arboviruses” can replicate in both vertebrates and arthropods and thus overcome a diverse array of hostile antiviral responses from species in very different taxa. Our understanding of the antiviral responses in vertebrates far exceeds that of arthropod vectors such as the mosquito Ae. aegypti. Studies on the fundamental processes governing insect vector immune responses to arboviral infections will increase our understanding of vector “competence” (i.e. the ability of insect vectors to transmit certain arboviruses) and facilitate the development of novel control measures. We will focus on the identification and characterisation of interaction partners of proteins involved in two key RNAi pathways: the exogenous small interfering (si) RNA and PIWI-interacting (pi)RNA pathways. These studies will use viruses like Zika and Chikungunya and the roles and effects of these RNAi pathways and interaction partners will be further analysed in vivo at insect vector tissue and organism level.
Studies on arboviruses and other emerging viruses will also be conducted in collaboration with the Uganda Virus Research Institute in Uganda, where several emergent viruses with epidemic potential have been identified (including yellow fever, Zika, Semliki Forrest, Ebola and Marburg viruses). We aim to identify viruses and other pathogens causing febrile illness in 3 geographically distinct regions of Uganda (North West, Central and South West districts). Specifically, we will study samples from the Acute Febrile Illness cohort (AFI) – a large UVRI/CDC cohort of patients presenting to health centres with fever, of which 17% remained undiagnosed despite comprehensive diagnostic testing.
Studies on arboviruses and other emerging viruses will also be conducted in collaboration with the Uganda Virus Research Institute in Uganda, where several emergent viruses with epidemic potential have been identified (including yellow fever, Zika, Semliki Forrest, Ebola and Marburg viruses). We aim to identify viruses and other pathogens causing febrile illness in 3 geographically distinct regions of Uganda (North West, Central and South West districts). Specifically, we will study samples from the Acute Febrile Illness cohort (AFI) – a large UVRI/CDC cohort of patients presenting to health centres with fever, of which 17% remained undiagnosed despite comprehensive diagnostic testing.
Organisations
- University of Glasgow, United Kingdom (Collaboration, Lead Research Organisation)
- Newcastle University, United Kingdom (Collaboration)
- University of Veterinary Medicine Hanover (Collaboration)
- Bernhard Nocht Inst. for Trop. Medicine (Collaboration)
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (Collaboration)
- Claude Bernard University Lyon 1 (UCBL) (Collaboration)
- Uganda Virus Research Institute (Collaboration)
- Wageningen University & Research (Collaboration)
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) (Collaboration)
- Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia (Collaboration)
- University of St Andrews, United Kingdom (Collaboration)
- University of Cambridge (Collaboration)
- Pasteur Institute, Paris (Collaboration)
- European Commission, Belgium (Collaboration)
- University of Oxford, United Kingdom (Collaboration)
- King Saud University (Collaboration)
- Gulbenkian Institute of Science (Collaboration)
- Zikalliance (Collaboration)
- University of Leeds, United Kingdom (Collaboration)
- University of Tartu, Estonia (Collaboration)
- The Pirbright Institute, WOKING (Collaboration)
- Moredun Research Institute (Collaboration)
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (Collaboration)
- University of Pittsburgh (Collaboration)
- Kansas State University, United States (Collaboration)
- École normale supérieure de Lyon (ENS Lyon) (Collaboration)
Publications
Adaken C
(2021)
Ebola virus antibody decay-stimulation in a high proportion of survivors.
in Nature
Adolfi A
(2018)
Multi-tissue GAL4-mediated gene expression in all Anopheles gambiae life stages using an endogenous polyubiquitin promoter.
in Insect biochemistry and molecular biology
Ahmad N
(2020)
Wolbachia strain w AlbB maintains high density and dengue inhibition following introduction into a field population of Aedes aegypti
in Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences
Alexander AJT
(2020)
Development of a Reverse Genetics System for Toscana Virus (Lineage A).
in Viruses
Allen E
(2018)
A Protective Monoclonal Antibody Targets a Site of Vulnerability on the Surface of Rift Valley Fever Virus
in Cell Reports
Almire F
(2021)
Sugar feeding protects against arboviral infection by enhancing gut immunity in the mosquito vector Aedes aegypti.
in PLoS pathogens
Altizer S
(2018)
Food for contagion: synthesis and future directions for studying host-parasite responses to resource shifts in anthropogenic environments.
in Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences
Ant T
(2022)
Wolbachia -Virus interactions and arbovirus control through population replacement in mosquitoes
in Pathogens and Global Health
Ant T
(2018)
The Wolbachia strain wAu provides highly efficient virus transmission blocking in Aedes aegypti
in PLOS Pathogens
Ant TH
(2020)
Wolbachia transinfections in Culex quinquefasciatus generate cytoplasmic incompatibility.
in Insect molecular biology
| Description | Support of Fiocruz Recife Arbovirus Reference Laboratory |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Policy Influence Type | Influenced training of practitioners or researchers |
| Description | 21SRF VBD UKRI BBSRC MRC Cross-Council Synergy in Understanding Vector Borne and Zoonotic Viral Disease |
| Amount | £500,000 (GBP) |
| Funding ID | BB/W01100X/1 |
| Organisation | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 09/2021 |
| End | 03/2023 |
| Description | British Council Newton Fund Grant (under the DOST-Newton PhD Scholarship partnership) for R. J. Gestuveo (Philippines) |
| Amount | £69,300 (GBP) |
| Funding ID | Grant ID 279705176 |
| Organisation | British Council |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 08/2017 |
| End | 08/2020 |
| Description | Capital Equipment Award "Cell Sorter" |
| Amount | £329,000 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Medical Research Council (MRC) |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 03/2019 |
| End | 03/2020 |
| Description | Carnegie Research Incentive Grants "Investigating the role of the circadian rhythm in modulating arbovirus infection in mosquitoes" for Dr. C. L. Donald |
| Amount | £12,339 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Carnegie Trust |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | |
| Description | EU Horizon 2020 Infravec-2 consortium "Research capacity for the implementation of genetic control of mosquitoes -2" |
| Amount | € 9,998,845 (EUR) |
| Organisation | European Union |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | European Union (EU) |
| Start | 02/2017 |
| End | 01/2021 |
| Description | EU Horizon 2020 Marie Sklodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (Call: H2020-MSCA-IF-2019, MSCA-IF-EF-RI [Reintegration Panel]) "TICKITS (Tick Cell Interactions with SFTSV)" for Dr. M. J. Petit |
| Amount | € 224,933 (EUR) |
| Organisation | European Union |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | European Union (EU) |
| Start | 03/2021 |
| End | 02/2023 |
| Description | Horizon 2020 MSCA Fellowship Margus Varjak |
| Amount | € 195,454 (EUR) |
| Funding ID | 661232 - MAPP |
| Organisation | European Union |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | European Union (EU) |
| Start | 08/2015 |
| End | 08/2017 |
| Description | Horizon 2020 Zikalliance |
| Amount | € 11,964,209 (EUR) |
| Funding ID | 734548 |
| Organisation | European Union |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | European Union (EU) |
| Start | 09/2016 |
| End | 09/2020 |
| Description | Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine -Confidence in Concept "Hypersialylated blockers of Zika virus (ZIKV) infectivity and neuropathology" (led by R. Pleass) |
| Amount | £47,789 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 02/2019 |
| End | 10/2019 |
| Description | MRC Wellcome Trust Zika Rapid Response "Zika: Association studies with Guillain- Barré syndome and neurotropism" (led by H. Willison) |
| Amount | £0 (GBP) |
| Funding ID | MC_PC_15105 |
| Organisation | Medical Research Council (MRC) |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 03/2016 |
| End | 09/2017 |
| Description | MRC Wellcome Trust Zika Rapid Response "Zika: The ecology of Zika transmission in Colombia and Ecuador" (led by H. Ferguson) |
| Amount | £0 (GBP) |
| Funding ID | MC_PC_15081 |
| Organisation | Medical Research Council (MRC) |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 03/2016 |
| End | 09/2017 |
| Title | Antibodies to Cache Valley and Kairi orthobunyavirus N proteins |
| Description | Highly specific for N protein and not cross reactive with related orthobunyavirus N proteins. |
| Type Of Material | Antibody |
| Year Produced | 2017 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Antibodies were outsourced to Cambridge Research Biochemicals and are are part of their commercial catalogue. See http://www.discoveryantibodies.com/anti-cache-valley-virus-cvv-nucleocapsid-antibody and http://www.discoveryantibodies.com/anti-kairi-virus-kriv-n-protein-antibody Their description was also published: https://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0006884 |
| URL | http://www.discoveryantibodies.com/ |
| Title | Antibody to Aedes aegypti p400 |
| Description | Antibody against the Aedes aegypti Domino ortholog, p400. |
| Type Of Material | Antibody |
| Year Produced | 2020 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Important tool to study p400, a regulator of the Aedes aegypti antiviral exogenous siRNA pathway. |
| URL | https://doi.org/10.1128/mSphere.00081-20 |
| Title | Reverse genetics for Cache Valley and Kairi viruses |
| Description | cDNA-based reverse genetics system to produce genetically modified viruses. |
| Type Of Material | Technology assay or reagent |
| Year Produced | 2017 |
| Provided To Others? | No |
| Impact | Reverse genetics systems for both viruses were used to produce attenuated vaccine candidates. |
| URL | https://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0006884 |
| Title | Reverse genetics for Toscana virus |
| Description | cDNA-based reverse genetics system to produce genetically modified viruses. |
| Type Of Material | Technology assay or reagent |
| Year Produced | 2020 |
| Provided To Others? | No |
| Impact | This technology allows recovery of lineage A Toscana virus. The genome can be manipulated for further uses such as vaccine design, reporter virus design etc. It is not published yet but is available on request at any time. |
| URL | https://www.mdpi.com/resolver?pii=v12040411 |
| Title | Reverse genetics for Zika virus |
| Description | A reverse genetics system that allows to manipulate the Zika virus genome. This is based on isolate PE243 from Northern Brazil which we fully characterised and sequenced. No direct impact in ODA partner country Brazil yet. |
| Type Of Material | Technology assay or reagent |
| Year Produced | 2019 |
| Provided To Others? | No |
| Impact | This technology ensures that Zika virus PE243 is available with the original sequence, and the genome can be manipulated for further uses such as vaccine design, reporter virus design etc. It is not published yet but we are happy to share it, should there be requests. |
| Title | Yellow fever virus with hi bit tag |
| Description | Engineered yellow fever virus, based on vaccine strain 17D, to contain hi bit tag which can be used in luciferase assays based on hi bit technology. |
| Type Of Material | Technology assay or reagent |
| Year Produced | 2020 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | None yet. |
| URL | https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0166-3542(20)30353-3 |
| Title | pPUb expression vector |
| Description | Our modified expression plasmid is derived from the original pGL3-pPUb plasmid of the Adelman lab, with a multiple cloning site 3' of the polyubiquitin promoter PUb to express proteins at high levels in insect cells. It has been used to engineer cassettes for production of long term stable mosquito cell lines selected by drug resistance, as well as transient expression of proteins. |
| Type Of Material | Technology assay or reagent |
| Year Produced | 2017 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Stable or transient high level expression of proteins in mosquito cells. |
| URL | https://doi.org/10.1128/mSphere.00144-17 |
| Title | An Aedes aegypti-derived Ago2 knockout cell line to investigate arbovirus infections |
| Description | These datasets contain measurement data contained in the associated paper. |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2021 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Not known. |
| URL | http://researchdata.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/1154 |
| Title | Analysis of the Zika virus capsid-Aedes aegypti mosquito interactome reveals pro-viral host factors critical for the establishment of infection |
| Description | These datasets contain measurements and proteomics data contained in the paper. |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2021 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Not known. |
| URL | http://researchdata.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/1020 |
| Title | Antiviral RNA Interference Activity in Cells of the Predatory Mosquito, Toxorhynchites amboinensis |
| Description | Data underlying publication doi: 10.3390/v10120694 |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2018 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Not known. |
| Title | Development of a Reverse Genetics System for Toscana Virus (Lineage A) |
| Description | Data underlying publication doi: 10.3390/v12040411 |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2020 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Not known. |
| Title | Generation of a reporter yellow fever virus for high throughput antiviral assays |
| Description | The dataset contains numeric reads of measurements for the associated publication. |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2020 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| URL | http://researchdata.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/1068 |
| Title | Glucose-Regulated Protein 78 interacts with Zika virus envelope protein and contributes to a productive infection |
| Description | |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2020 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| URL | http://researchdata.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/959 |
| Title | Improved transient silencing of gene expression in the mosquito female Aedes aegypti |
| Description | Data and measurements underlying figures. |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2021 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Not known. |
| URL | http://researchdata.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/1082 |
| Title | In vitro selection of Remdesivir resistance suggests evolutionary predictability of SARS-CoV-2 |
| Description | Mixture of excel and Prism files. Each data set is in a file related to the figure it's used in to create it. |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2021 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Not known. |
| URL | http://researchdata.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/1184 |
| Title | Investigation of host response antagonism and reassortment potential for Cache Valley and Kairi viruses, two emerging orthobunyaviruses of the Americas |
| Description | Data underlying publication doi: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006884 |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2018 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Not known. |
| Title | Mutational analysis of Aedes aegypti Dicer 2 provides insights into the biogenesis of antiviral exogenous small interfering RNAs |
| Description | Data underlying figures. |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2022 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Not known. |
| URL | https://www.doi.org/10.5525/gla.researchdata.1161 |
| Title | Sugar feeding protects against arboviral infection by enhancing gut immunity in the mosquito vector Aedes aegypti |
| Description | Data underlying figures. |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2021 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Not known. |
| Title | The Aedes aegypti Domino Ortholog p400 Regulates Antiviral Exogenous Small Interfering RNA Pathway Activity and ago-2 Expression |
| Description | Data underlying publication doi: 10.1128/mSphere.00081-20 |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2020 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Not known. |
| Title | The SUMOylation pathway suppresses arbovirus replication in Aedes aegypti cells |
| Description | |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2020 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| URL | http://researchdata.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/1084 |
| Title | Zika virus infection leads to demyelination and axonal injury in mature CNS cultures |
| Description | These datasets contain cell, myelin, and axon quantification data used for figures and analysis. |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2020 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Not known. |
| URL | http://researchdata.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/1049 |
| Title | aBravo is a novel Aedes aegypti antiviral protein that interacts with, but acts independently of, the exogenous siRNA pathway effector Dicer 2 |
| Description | These datasets contain luciferase data contained in the paper. |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2020 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| URL | http://researchdata.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/1010 |
| Description | Arthropod innate immune control of arbovirus replication |
| Organisation | Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine |
| Country | Germany |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Arbovirus clones/infectious clones, assay systems, reagents; experimental design and and data interpretation. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Arbovirus clones/infectious clones, assay systems, reagents; experimental design and data interpretation. With Professor Esther Schnettler. |
| Impact | Novel data on arthropod antiviral immunity to arbovirus infection. |
| Start Year | 2015 |
| Description | Arthropod innate immune control of arbovirus replication: novel cell systems |
| Organisation | The Pirbright Institute |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Testing and characterisation of genetically modified mosquito cell clones. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Production of genetically modified mosquito cell clones. With Dr Kevin Maringer previously University of Surrey, now at The Pirbright Institute). |
| Impact | New genetically modified cell lines with defined knockouts resulting in deficiencies in RNA interference pathways. |
| Start Year | 2016 |
| Description | Biology of flavivirus sfRNA |
| Organisation | Wageningen University & Research |
| Country | Netherlands |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Experimental assays and study design. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Experimental assays and study design. With Dr G. Pijlman. |
| Impact | Increased our understanding of the properties flavivirus sfRNA. |
| Start Year | 2010 |
| Description | Bunyavirus-host interactions and replication |
| Organisation | University of Glasgow |
| Department | MRC - University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Arthropod innate immunity reagents and expertise; bunyavirus expertise and reagents including viruses and infectious clones; experimental design and data evaluation. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Bunyavirus expertise and reagents including viruses, infectious clones, minireplicon systems, protein expression clones; experimental design and data evaluation. With Professor Richard M. Elliott until he passed away in 2015 and currently with Dr Benjamin Brennan. |
| Impact | Novel infectious clones and minireplicon systems for specific bunyaviruses and new functional data on bunyavirus proteins, bunyavirus replication, bunyavirus-host interactions including immunity. |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | Clinical, Epidemiological, Immunological and Viral Characterization of Lethal Cases Occurred in the State of Pernambuco With Laboratory Diagnosis Positive for Chikungunya Virus |
| Organisation | Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) |
| Department | Fiocruz Pernambuco |
| Country | Brazil |
| Sector | Hospitals |
| PI Contribution | Advice, data interpretation. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Patient samples, epidemiological surveys and sequencing technology. Project led by Dr Lindomar J. Pena. |
| Impact | Investigations into chikungunya virus sequences. |
| Start Year | 2018 |
| Description | Discovery of SARS-CoV-2 antivirals |
| Organisation | University of Glasgow |
| Department | MRC - University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Development of virological assays for drug testing and drug screening assays. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Drug screening and virology expertise. With Professor Arvind Patel and Dr Sam Wilson. Supported by Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. |
| Impact | Cytopathic-effect based drug screening assay for SARS-CoV-2 and drug discovery. |
| Start Year | 2020 |
| Description | Eco-epidemiological surveillance of Zika virus in Colombia and Ecuador |
| Organisation | University of Glasgow |
| Department | Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Deep sequencing of RNA from collected mosquitoes and data analysis for virus detection in mosquitoes; supervision of PhD student and Master's student. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Organisation of trapping/collections of mosquitoes; supervision of PhD student and Master's student. With Professor Heather Ferguson; funded through her MRC-Wellcome Trust Zika Rapid Response funding. |
| Impact | Data on presence of arboviruses and mosquito-only viruses in areas of Ecuador and Colombia; training of students in molecular techniques. |
| Start Year | 2016 |
| Description | Engineering of arboviruses for studies in arthropod infection assays |
| Organisation | The Pirbright Institute |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | We collaborate on engineering alphavirus and bunyavirus genomes for studies in insect cells. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Experimental assays. With Professor John Fazakerley and Dr Rennos Fragkoudis. |
| Impact | Data on arbovirus-host interactions. |
| Start Year | 2011 |
| Description | Hypersialylated blockers of Zika virus (ZIKV) infectivity and neuropathology |
| Organisation | Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Arboviruses and reagents. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Antibody fragments to be assessed for antiviral activities ( receptor binding, virus-binding etc.). With Professor R. Pleass (LSTM). Additional partner in award "The emergence of Zika virus in Brazil: investigating viral features and host responses to design preventive strategies". Supported by neural culture systems; obtained in collaboration with Professors C. Linington, H. Willison, J. Edgar, S. Barnett (University of Glasgow). |
| Impact | Collaboration funded by Confidence in Concept grant "Hypersialylated blockers of Zika virus (ZIKV) infectivity and neuropathology" by Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, as outlined in the relevant section. Key output is characterisation of cellular response in mixed CNS culture model to antibody treatment. |
| Start Year | 2019 |
| Description | Hypersialylated blockers of Zika virus (ZIKV) infectivity and neuropathology |
| Organisation | University of Glasgow |
| Department | Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Arboviruses and reagents. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Antibody fragments to be assessed for antiviral activities ( receptor binding, virus-binding etc.). With Professor R. Pleass (LSTM). Additional partner in award "The emergence of Zika virus in Brazil: investigating viral features and host responses to design preventive strategies". Supported by neural culture systems; obtained in collaboration with Professors C. Linington, H. Willison, J. Edgar, S. Barnett (University of Glasgow). |
| Impact | Collaboration funded by Confidence in Concept grant "Hypersialylated blockers of Zika virus (ZIKV) infectivity and neuropathology" by Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, as outlined in the relevant section. Key output is characterisation of cellular response in mixed CNS culture model to antibody treatment. |
| Start Year | 2019 |
| Description | Infectious clones of Zika virus |
| Organisation | University of Tartu |
| Department | Institute of Technology |
| Country | Estonia |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Design and testing of recombinant Zika virus (produced from infectious clones obtained from the collaborator) in arthropod systems (cells, live organisms). |
| Collaborator Contribution | Design and cloning of Zika virus for reverse genetics purposes. With Professor Andres Merits. |
| Impact | Assessment and use of Zika virus infectious clones. |
| Start Year | 2016 |
| Description | Infectious clones of alphaviruses |
| Organisation | University of Tartu |
| Department | Institute of Technology |
| Country | Estonia |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Use of these viruses across host systems for replication/immunity/virus-host interaction assays. Contribution to design, cloning and production of alphavirus infectious clones and replicons; including mutant viruses, viruses expressing reporter and other genes/tags or RNA sequences. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Design, cloning and production of alphavirus infectious clones and replicons; viruses expressing reporter and other genes/tags. |
| Impact | This collaboration has generated a large collection of alphavirus infectious clones and replicons. |
| Start Year | 2006 |
| Description | Infravec-2 |
| Organisation | European Commission |
| Country | European Union (EU) |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | This EU Horizon 2020 consortium aims to improve research infrastructures for vector biology; these can be facilities as well as reagents, protocols etc for the community. We are engaged in work package 1 to improve tools for genetic modification of Aedes aegypti (Dr Emilie Pondeville). Professor Alain Kohl leads work package 2, to standardise infection protocols for: Plasmodium infection of Anopheles ssp mosquitoes; arbovirus infections of Aedes aegypti; Leishmania or phleabovirus infections of sandflies. We are also developing a reverse genetic system for Toscana bunyavirus in the framework of work package 1. In work package 4, he also leads task 4.1 dealing with developing harmonized operational and governance standards for European secure insectaries. As part of transnational activities we can also provide specific biolgical materials/services to end users. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Work packages aim towards standardisation of protocols and reagents/generation of new reagents for the vector biology community, and transnational activities to provide services and reagents for the same target group. |
| Impact | Deliverables as planned over the course of the project. Reverse genetics system for Toscana virus has developed as a key contribution. |
| Start Year | 2017 |
| Description | Insect immune responses to Rift Valley fever virus |
| Organisation | University of Veterinary Medicine Hanover |
| Country | Germany |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Innate immunity expertise; reagents; experimental design and data evaluation. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Arthropod biology and innate immunity expertise; in vivo infection systems; experimental design and data evaluation. With Dr Stefanie Becker; initially BNITM then TiHO. |
| Impact | Innate immunity data for Rift Valley fever virus infection across multiple insect systems. |
| Start Year | 2012 |
| Description | Investigations into Rift Valley fever virus NSs protein interactions with host cell signalling and transcription |
| Organisation | King Saud University |
| Country | Saudi Arabia |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Expertise in arbovirus-cell interactions. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Expertise, reagents, experimental work, field work. With Professor Saleh Eifan. |
| Impact | None yet. |
| Start Year | 2020 |
| Description | Louping ill virus |
| Organisation | Moredun Research Institute |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| PI Contribution | Innate immunity assay systems; molecular virology expertise; experimental design and data evaluation; supervision of PhD student. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Expertise in virus genomics and evolution; experimental design and data evaluation. With Dr Roman Biek; viral material from infected animals by Dr Colin McInnes, the Moredun Institute; supervision of PhD student. |
| Impact | Novel sequence information on louping ill virus allowing to trace evolutionary history; reverse genetics system for louping ill virus; characterisation of interferon antagonism of louping ill virus and possible impact on tropism. |
| Start Year | 2014 |
| Description | Louping ill virus |
| Organisation | University of Glasgow |
| Department | Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Innate immunity assay systems; molecular virology expertise; experimental design and data evaluation; supervision of PhD student. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Expertise in virus genomics and evolution; experimental design and data evaluation. With Dr Roman Biek; viral material from infected animals by Dr Colin McInnes, the Moredun Institute; supervision of PhD student. |
| Impact | Novel sequence information on louping ill virus allowing to trace evolutionary history; reverse genetics system for louping ill virus; characterisation of interferon antagonism of louping ill virus and possible impact on tropism. |
| Start Year | 2014 |
| Description | MRC-Confap Newton Fund |
| Organisation | Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) |
| Department | Fiocruz Pernambuco |
| Country | Brazil |
| Sector | Hospitals |
| PI Contribution | This is the collaboration on Zika virus supported by the award "The emergence of Zika virus in Brazil: investigating viral features and host responses to design preventive strategies". It is noted here for completeness as this award was a collaborative partnership. Key work areas at CVR were the development of tools to study Zika virus and virus host interactions. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Provision of virus strains and other material; development of diagnostic tools and patient cohorts for further study. Collaborators at Fiocruz, Recife (Brazil; ODA recipient country) were Drs Lindomar J. Pena and Rafael Freitas de Oliveira Franca. Original partner in award "The emergence of Zika virus in Brazil: investigating viral features and host responses to design preventive strategies". |
| Impact | The following text lists keys outcomes and points relating to ODA compliance, as also indicated in the section "Other Outputs & Knowledge/Future Steps". This collaborative project was carried out with colleagues Lindomar J. Pena and Rafael Freitas de Oliveira Franca at Fiocruz, Recife, Brazil as key collaborators. This city in the north of Brazil, an ODA recipient country, was affected by Zika virus (including cases of microcephaly). The research carried out in the context of this award was important to increase basic understanding of Zika virus at the start of the outbreak (and eventually beyond), thus playing an important role in the early work on this virus which had a major impact on public health in Brazil, and also other countries across the Americas. Key findings of the project include full sequence information of Zika virus isolated in Recife, Brazil and analysis of viral host reponse antagonism (by sfRNA and viral proteins). The project also involved other researchers at CVR and beyond, leading to collaborations on various aspects of Zika virus-host interactions and preventive measures (such as vaccine development) which will hopefully in time have a direct impact on affected countries such as Brazil. With permission from Fiocruz Recife (MTA) the isolate of Zika virus was distributed by CVR to over 25 laboratories across Europe and other parts of the world, to carry out research on this virus thus the project indirectly supported research by others with a relevant strain of this virus, which may support efforts in understanding pathogenesis and prevention. Both Drs Freitas de Oliveira Franca and Pena fully participated in the research and publication process where appropriate. They were promoted from Assistant to Adjunct Researchers, and according to information from Dr Freitas de Oliveira Franca participation in an international project helps career progression. Dr Freitas de Oliveira Franca also became involved in the setting up of the Fiocruz Arbovirus Reference Laboratory, which since November 2015 played a critical role in Zika virus diagnostics (and work in this area was further supported by this award); this structure is officially recognised by the Brazilian Ministry of Health to support the diagnosis of arboviruses and supports technical training of professionals from public laboratories (public health system) to transfer and implement molecular diagnosis of arboviruses in secondary public laboratories as well as performing non routine tests and investigation of complex cases. By doing so the Fiocruz Arbovirus Reference Laboratory contributes to the National Guide of Arbovirus Diagnosis, which is a national protocol used to provide the correct laboratorial protocols and practices to the diagnosis of dengue, Zika and chikungunya viruses. Funding by Fundação de Amparo à Ciência e Tecnologia de Pernambuco (APQ-0044-2.11/16, the Brazilian counterpart funding this UK-Brazil collaborative project) was important to implement tools for Zika virus investigations, including PCR protocols and virus isolation that were further used as positive control for PCR reactions and as antigen for in-house produced ELISAs. The project also supported the acquisition of laboratory supplies and minor equipment necessary for Zika virus investigations. Funding was subsequently acknowledged in three publications by our collaborators at Fiocruz Recife: https://bmcinfectdis.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12879-018-3313-4 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.7b00608 https://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0005583 These are important subsequent impacts of this project-research data, likely impact on career progression and support with developing diagnostics and tools- that arose from this project and benefit our collaborators and Brazil. The Arbovirus Reference Laboratory is now involved in further studies for example ZikaBra, a project currently supported by WHO and Brazilian Ministry of Health and aiming to investigate the persistence of Zika virus in different body fluids. The project is overall supporting aims towards UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being). |
| Start Year | 2016 |
| Description | Mosquito bite site immunity |
| Organisation | University of Leeds |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Experimental study systems including viruses; study design. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Experimental study systems including immunology; study design. With Dr C. McKimmie, previously (at the start of the project) University of Glasgow and now University of Leeds. |
| Impact | Novel data on how bite site host responses and mosquito saliva interact with arbovirus replication. |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | Mosquito-arbovirus interactions |
| Organisation | Pasteur Institute, Paris |
| Country | France |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| PI Contribution | Arboviruses and innate immunity expertise; experimental design and data evaluation. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Mosquito infection systems; experimental design and data evaluation. With Professor Anna-Bella Failloux. |
| Impact | Key interactions also within RiftVectors as well as EU Horizon 2020 Zikalliance and Infravec-2 consortia through taking lead of work packages and tasks given our combined expertise in the field at European level. Exchange of expertise and data on arbovirus-vector interactions. |
| Start Year | 2011 |
| Description | Proteomic investigations of Zika virus infection |
| Organisation | University of Glasgow |
| Department | Polyomics Facility |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Experimental design and data analysis; reagents; laboratory space and support for Professor Carolina Ramírez Santana (visiting Professor, Universidad de Nuestra Señora del Rosario, Colombia). |
| Collaborator Contribution | Experimental design and data analysis; reagents for proteomics; laboratory space, support and Newton Fund support for hosting Professor Carolina Ramírez Santana (visiting Professor, Universidad de Nuestra Señora del Rosario, Colombia). Lead collaborator at the University of Glasgow is Dr Richard Burchmore. |
| Impact | Interaction data of cellular proteins with Zika virus E protein; one E-interacting partner is being further investigated for functional and mechanistic relevance. |
| Start Year | 2017 |
| Description | Recombination in Zika virus |
| Organisation | University of St Andrews |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Zika virus reagents and assays; experimental design. Hosting of PhD student from the University of St. Andrews and provision of training. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Viral recombination assays. With Professor David Evans, and involves one PhD student. |
| Impact | Training of PhD student at CVR in techniques for working with Zika virus. Zika sequencing variants resulting from likely recombination events were recreated by reverse genetics. |
| Start Year | 2016 |
| Description | SFTSV vaccinology |
| Organisation | University of Pittsburgh |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Expertise in SFSTV-host interactions and reverse genetics. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Design of novel infectious clones for pathogenesis studies and new vaccination targets and tools. With Professor P. Duprex. Additional partner in award "Vaccines and molecular tools for the control of the emerging bunyavirus, severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome phlebovirus (SFTSV)". |
| Impact | None yet. |
| Start Year | 2019 |
| Description | Salmonella-Zika vaccine platform |
| Organisation | Newcastle University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Experimental design; provision of reagents. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Production of recombinant Salmonella to express Zika virus structural proteins as vaccine candidate. With Dr Anjam Khan. |
| Impact | Expression system for Zika virus E protein produced. Vaccination studies with the Samonella system were not successful. |
| Start Year | 2016 |
| Description | Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV)-host interactions |
| Organisation | University of Glasgow |
| Department | MRC - University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Study design and advice; co-hosting of post-doctoral researcher at CVR for training. |
| Collaborator Contribution | NIH Tokyo, Japan: reagents, advice and study design. With Dr T. Suzuki. University of Glasgow: reagents, advice and study design. With Dr B. Brennan. |
| Impact | Training of post-doctoral researcher from NIH Japan, Tokyo at CVR in techniques relating to molecular biology of SFTSV and virus-host interactions. |
| Start Year | 2018 |
| Description | Studies on vector-borne emerging and re-emerging viral diseases of humans and animals in selected areas of Afar Region, Northeast Ethiopia |
| Organisation | Addis Ababa University |
| Country | Ethiopia |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Arbovirology and technical expertise (virus discovery and characterisation, sequencing etc.). With Professor Emma Thomson. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Arbovirus epidemiology and vector biology in Northern Ethiopia. With Dr Mengistu Legesse. |
| Impact | None yet. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | The distribution of the Rift Valley fever virus vectors in nature and vectorial competence in Saudi Arabia |
| Organisation | King Saud University |
| Country | Saudi Arabia |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Expertise in arbovirology and vector biology. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Expertise, reagents, experimental work, field work. With Professor Saleh Eifan. |
| Impact | Data on the distribution of Rift Valley fever virus vectors in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. |
| Start Year | 2020 |
| Description | Toscana virus reverse genetics |
| Organisation | Claude Bernard University Lyon 1 (UCBL) |
| Country | France |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Development and testing of Toscana virus reverse genetics; antibody development; cell lines; experimental design and data evaluation. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Development and testing of Toscana virus reverse genetics; Toscana virus isolates; experimental design and data evaluation. With Dr Frederick Arnaud and Dr Maxime Ratinier. |
| Impact | Toscana virus antibodies have been produced and assessed. Reverse genetics system for this virus has been developed. This interaction is formalised following association of collaborators with the partners Infravec-2 as partners. |
| Start Year | 2017 |
| Description | US-UK BBSRC-NIFA Collab: Control of emerging bunyaviruses |
| Organisation | Kansas State University |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Development of novel infectious clones for orthobunyaviruses Cache Valley virus and Kairi virus including production of attenuated viruses; provision of Rift Valley fever virus fever vaccine candidates; vector innate immunity expertise; experimental design and data evaluation. This project was originally led by Professor Richard M. Elliott with Professor Alain Kohl as co-investigator; following his death Professor Alain Kohl took the lead. This collaboration is within a listed award "US-UK BBSRC-NIFA Collab: Control of emerging bunyaviruses". |
| Collaborator Contribution | Vaccination experiments in sheep with attenuated bunyaviruses and vector competence work; vector infections for innate immunity experiments and transmission studies with vaccine candidates including Rift Valley fever virus. |
| Impact | Data on competence of North American vectors for Cache Valley virus; reverse genetics and minireplicon systems for Cache Valley and Kairi viruses; virulence factor deletant Cache Valley and Kairi viruses as vaccine candidates; specific antibodies for nucleocapsid proteins of Cache Valley and Kairi viruses that are now sold under license to Cambridge Research Biochemicals. |
| Start Year | 2015 |
| Description | Vaccines and molecular tools for the control of the emerging bunyavirus, severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) |
| Organisation | Chinese Academy of Sciences |
| Department | Beijing Institutes of Life Science Chinese Academy of Sciences |
| Country | China |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | SFSTV virological tools and reverse genetics (including generation of recombinant viruses); study design; in vivo studies on pathogenesis and vaccination. This interaction is based on the award "Vaccines and molecular tools for the control of the emerging bunyavirus, severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV)". Led by Professor A. Kohl, with Professors A. Patel and Willett, and Dr B. Brennan (MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research) as well as Dr M. Pingen (University of Glasgow) supporting the project. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Patient sera, antibodies and reagents, assays, generation of recombinant viruses. With Professors Y. Wu and G. F. Gao ; BIOLS is based in the ODA recipient partner country China. Original partner in award "Vaccines and molecular tools for the control of the emerging bunyavirus, severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome phlebovirus (SFTSV)". |
| Impact | Training in SFTSV reverse genetics and transfer of material to partner BIOLS in China (ODA recipient country); generation of SFTSV expressing reporter gene for facilitation of neutralisation assay read out and other recombinant SFSTV at BIOLS; generation of monoclonal antibody escape mutant at BIOLS (with the mutant virus engineered at MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research -CVR- for testing); pathogenesis studies and work on suitability of SFTSVdelNSs or virus-like particles as vaccine candidates at CVR; generation of antibodies at CVR; identification of IL-6 as potential therapeutic target. |
| Start Year | 2018 |
| Description | Vaccines and molecular tools for the control of the emerging bunyavirus, severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) |
| Organisation | University of Glasgow |
| Department | Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | SFSTV virological tools and reverse genetics (including generation of recombinant viruses); study design; in vivo studies on pathogenesis and vaccination. This interaction is based on the award "Vaccines and molecular tools for the control of the emerging bunyavirus, severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV)". Led by Professor A. Kohl, with Professors A. Patel and Willett, and Dr B. Brennan (MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research) as well as Dr M. Pingen (University of Glasgow) supporting the project. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Patient sera, antibodies and reagents, assays, generation of recombinant viruses. With Professors Y. Wu and G. F. Gao ; BIOLS is based in the ODA recipient partner country China. Original partner in award "Vaccines and molecular tools for the control of the emerging bunyavirus, severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome phlebovirus (SFTSV)". |
| Impact | Training in SFTSV reverse genetics and transfer of material to partner BIOLS in China (ODA recipient country); generation of SFTSV expressing reporter gene for facilitation of neutralisation assay read out and other recombinant SFSTV at BIOLS; generation of monoclonal antibody escape mutant at BIOLS (with the mutant virus engineered at MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research -CVR- for testing); pathogenesis studies and work on suitability of SFTSVdelNSs or virus-like particles as vaccine candidates at CVR; generation of antibodies at CVR; identification of IL-6 as potential therapeutic target. |
| Start Year | 2018 |
| Description | Vector genetics and innate immunity |
| Organisation | Pasteur Institute, Paris |
| Country | France |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| PI Contribution | Viral and RNAi assays/immunity studies in mosquito cells. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Sequences of immune genes from aedine mosquitoes. With Dr Louis Lambrechts. |
| Impact | Novel Dicer2 variants/sequences from Aedes aegypti; data on Dicer2 mutations and activities. |
| Start Year | 2016 |
| Description | Virus discovery and characterisation in Uganda |
| Organisation | Uganda Virus Research Institute |
| Country | Uganda |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | Support with study set up and data analysis. Involved in supervision of UVRI-based, Makerere University PhD student with Professor Emma Thomson. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Field work (vector biology), RNA sequencing and analysis. |
| Impact | Novel viruses/virus sequences that are being further investigated; characterisation of local mosquito species. |
| Start Year | 2017 |
| Description | Virus discovery and characterisation in Uganda |
| Organisation | University of Glasgow |
| Department | MRC - University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Support with study set up and data analysis. Involved in supervision of UVRI-based, Makerere University PhD student with Professor Emma Thomson. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Field work (vector biology), RNA sequencing and analysis. |
| Impact | Novel viruses/virus sequences that are being further investigated; characterisation of local mosquito species. |
| Start Year | 2017 |
| Description | Wolbachia Wellcome Trust Project Grant |
| Organisation | Gulbenkian Institute of Science |
| Country | Portugal |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | We are co-invstigators on a Wellcome Trust grant financing research at CVR, University of Cambridge and Gulbenkian Institute for Science. |
| Collaborator Contribution | We have responsibility for one part of the research project. One post-doctoral fellow is employed on the grant. |
| Impact | Data on Wolbachia-SFV interactions and mechanisms of antiviral actions of the endosymbiont. |
| Start Year | 2011 |
| Description | Wolbachia Wellcome Trust Project Grant |
| Organisation | University of Cambridge |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | We are co-invstigators on a Wellcome Trust grant financing research at CVR, University of Cambridge and Gulbenkian Institute for Science. |
| Collaborator Contribution | We have responsibility for one part of the research project. One post-doctoral fellow is employed on the grant. |
| Impact | Data on Wolbachia-SFV interactions and mechanisms of antiviral actions of the endosymbiont. |
| Start Year | 2011 |
| Description | Yellow fever virus design and antibody production |
| Organisation | University of Glasgow |
| Department | MRC - University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Design of new yellow fever virus infectious clones. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Development of expression systems for yellow fever structural proteins; immunisation; antibody production. With Professor Arvind Patel, Centre for Virus Research. Includes a jointly supervised PhD student on this topic since 2017. |
| Impact | Yellow fever viruses specifically adapted for reporter assays to facilitate neutralisation assays. |
| Start Year | 2017 |
| Description | Zika virus detection by the vertebrate innate immune system |
| Organisation | University of Oxford |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Provided biological material such as RNA from infected cells to collaborators; involved in experimental design and data analysis. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Assays for innate immune pathway activation/viral RNA detection and inhibition of signalling pathways by Zika virus proteins. With Professor Jan Rehwinkel. |
| Impact | Improved understanding of Zika virus innate immune detection by the human innate immune system, and viral antagonism thereof. This is important to understand the pathogenesis of Zika infection. |
| Start Year | 2016 |
| Description | Zika virus sfRNA and impact on the cellular transriptome |
| Organisation | University of Glasgow |
| Department | MRC - University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Experiments with Zika virus sfRNA in immune pathway deficient cell lines; transcriptomics and data analysis carried out by CVR sequencing service and bionformatic support, respectively. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Provision of various immune pathway deficient cell lines; testing of sfRNA impact on immune signalling (control experiments). With Professor John McLauchlan. |
| Impact | Cell line transcriptomes in presence or absence of Zika virus sfRNA; these data are being further analysed. |
| Start Year | 2017 |
| Description | Zika virus vaccine design and antibody production |
| Organisation | University of Glasgow |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Provision of Zika virus and derived material; experimental design. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Development of expression systems for Zika virus structural proteins; immunisation and antibody development/neutralisation assays. With Professor Arvind Patel. Also includes a jointly supervised PhD student on this topic since 2017. |
| Impact | Antibodies and neutralisation assays for Zika virus; vaccine candidates. |
| Start Year | 2016 |
| Description | Zika-virus host interactions: evolution and persistence |
| Organisation | École normale supérieure de Lyon (ENS Lyon) |
| Country | France |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Exchange of reagents and data that relate to Zika virus evolution; data evaluation; experimental design. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Testing of specific aspects of Zika virus evolution under pressure of the immune system. With Dr Marlene Dreux. |
| Impact | Zika virus variant that escapes TL3-mediated innate immunity. |
| Start Year | 2016 |
| Description | Zika: association studies with Guillain- Barré syndome and neurotropism |
| Organisation | University of Glasgow |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Zika viruses and virology expertise; experimental design and experiments involving infections; data evaluation and interpretation. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Murine CNS and PNS cultures; neurobiology reagents; experimental design; data evaluation. With Professor Hugh Willison, Professor Sue Barnett, Professor Chris Linington and Dr Julia Edgar through their ZIKAPlan and MRC-Wellcome Trust Zika Rapid Response funding. |
| Impact | Improved understanding of Zika virus neurotropism, effect on target cells and robust cell culture based Zika virus infection system for CNS/PNS studies. |
| Start Year | 2016 |
| Description | Zikalliance |
| Organisation | Zikalliance |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| PI Contribution | In WP6, Vector Competence: Task 6.3 (Interactions between Zika virus and other flaviviruses) leader, with co-lead Professor Anna-Bella Failloux, Institut Pasteur (Paris, France). We are specifically studying in sub-task 6.3.2 mosquito immunity to Zika virus infection and a screen for mosquito cell factors affecting Zika virus replication. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Zikalliance is a EU Horizon 2020 supported consortium and thus contributions by partners across work packages vary. Co-lead of task 6.3 is provided by Professor Anna-Bella Failloux. In sub-task 6.3.2 specifically co-infection systems (Zika virus and other arboviruses) are assessed by Professor Esther Schnettler (BNITM, Germany). |
| Impact | Information and new data on mosquito RNA interference responses to Zika virus were obtained which is important to understand interactions of this pathogen and Aedes aegypti cells. |
| Start Year | 2016 |
| Description | miRNA targeted arboviruses for vaccine design |
| Organisation | The Pirbright Institute |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Design of miRNA containing Rift Valley fever and Semliki Forest viruses for mosquito infections. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Production of miRNA target containing viruses, mosquito cell and mosquito infections. This collaboration began at the Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh and continued at The Pirbright Institute with Professor John Fazakerley and Dr Rennos Fragkoudis though Ms Stacey Human's PhD thesis; Dr Fragkoudis currently continues the project. |
| Impact | miRNA-targeted Semliki Forest viruses that showed differential replication in mosquito cells; miRNA-targeted Rift Valley fever viruses that remain to be fully characterised. |
| Start Year | 2012 |
| Description | 03/08/2021 - What makes viruses tick project - The Conservation Volunteers Webinar - Alexandra Wilson, Ben Brennan and Andy Clarke |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | A webinar about ticks and tick borne disease awareness for the Conservation Volunteers staff, volunteers, partners and general public. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| URL | https://youtu.be/QmDXZ-vtdpc |
| Description | 04/03/2021 Alexandra Wilson - STEM Talk |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Talk to the Seniors (higher biology and advanced higher biology) about my PhD and research (using presentation) |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| Description | 05/03/2020 Alexandra Wilson STEM Breakfast |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Make and present a five minute presentation about current role and career path to the students, then take part in a Q&A where students ask questions (virtually). Session may be recorded to share the session with other GDST schools. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| Description | 05/03/2021 Alexandra Wilson STEM careers talk |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | "Teacher will record an interview and ask questions; What is your job and where do you work? What does a normal day look like in your job? What do you love most about your job? What inspired you to follow a career in STEM? What's the best career decision you've ever made? What level of education is required for this career? If you need A Levels, which A Levels did you take? What other skills do you need for your job? What do you think are the secrets behind getting to where you've got to? What advice would you give to our students who are thinking of a potential career in a STEM based role? " |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| Description | 05/08/2021 - What makes viruses tick project - STV News appearance - Ben Brennan, Alexandra Wilson and Andy Clarke |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | STV News feature about the importance of tick safety across scotland during the summer months and advertising our citizen science platform so that people get in touch if they've been bitten by a tick. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| URL | https://news.stv.tv/scotland/scientists-call-for-publics-help-to-discover-more-about-ticks |
| Description | 09/08/2021 - What makes viruses tick project - Webinar with Blairvadach - Ben Brennan and Mazigh Fares |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | A webinar for the educational staff at the Blairvadach Outdoor Education Centre which hosts school groups from greater Glasgow and Clyde |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| Description | 11/01/2022 - What makes viruses tick project - Kelvin Probus webinar - Alexandra Wilson |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | A webinar on ticks and tick borne disease in scotland and her PhD to the Kelvin Probus group. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| URL | http://kelvinprobus.org/ticks/ |
| Description | 14/05/2021 - What makes viruses tick project - U3A Helensburgh Webinar - Alexandra Wilson |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | A talk to a group of 30 retired people looking for life long learning at the U3A group in Helensburgh,. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| Description | 18/01/2021 Daniel Streicker Conversation Article |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Daniel wrote a piece for The Conversation titled "Hepatitis D: how the virus made the jump from animals to humans" |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| URL | https://theconversation.com/hepatitis-d-how-the-virus-made-the-jump-from-animals-to-humans-152458 |
| Description | 19/10/2021 - What makes viruses tick project - TikTok video about washing ticks - Alexandra Wilson |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | A video on TikTok about how we wash ticks in the lab went viral and received over 4.7 million views |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| URL | https://www.tiktok.com/@tick_scientist/video/7020715095726542086?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1&lan... |
| Description | 20/01/2022 - What makes viruses tick project - Webinar for UofG Retired Staff Group - Alexandra Wilson |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | A talk about ticks and tickborne disease in scotland and about her research to the Uni of Glasgow Retired Staff Group |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| Description | 21/05/2021 - What makes viruses tick project - Global Science Show livestream - Alexandra Wilson |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Alex took part in a 30 minute livestream on the Global Science Show which is promoted on twitter to talk about her research on ticks and the public engagement project |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| Description | 22/01/2021 Alexandra Wilson - STEM Guess My Job |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Answer the questions with a picture in the powerpoint and on an answer sheet; What general STEM area you work in? e.g Science Engineering Technology Maths. What you wear to work? What equipment you use at work? What you do in your day to day role? What your work environment looks like? What is the best part of your job? What skills you need in your job? A picture of a famous person in your field. What do you like doing in your spare time/your interests? Anything else that might help the young people guess your job. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| Description | 23/11/2020 Zeiss Blog |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Stephanie Rainey, Joanne Haney, Carol Leitch and Mila Rodriguez all wrote for a blog partnered and hosted my Zeiss Microscopy about how we use light microscopy at the CVR to study viruses. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2020 |
| URL | https://blogs.zeiss.com/microscopy/en/virology-light-microscopy/ |
| Description | 23rd Annual Glasgow Virology Workshop 10 February 2018 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | The CVR hosted the 23rd Glasgow Virology Workshop (GVW) on Saturday the 10th of February (Sir Charles Wilson Building, University of Glasgow). This annual one day meeting aims to communicate the latest innovative science in the world of virology, and to promote interactions between scientists and a variety of stakeholders throughout the world. This meeting is an informal and welcoming one day event comprising a mix of presentations from both external and internal speakers, along with networking sessions. It is rounded off by an evening ceilidh to provide attendees with a more relaxed opportunity to engage with one another. The annual event attracts a wide age range of attendees (from undergraduate students through to healthcare professionals, members of the biotech industry to retired professors), providing an ideal opportunity to catch up with former colleagues, establish new collaborations, and listen to truly inspirational science. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | 24/03/2021 - What makes viruses tick project - CVR Insight Online Article - Ben Brennan, Mazigh Fares and Alex Wilson |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Three researchers contributed to a conversation which shapes a CVR Insight online article about the work of the team and the research they do at the CVR shared for tick bite prevention week |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| URL | https://www.gla.ac.uk/researchinstitutes/iii/cvr/engage/news/cvrinsights/headline_801106_en.html |
| Description | 24/03/2021 - What makes viruses tick project - Glasgow Science Centre Spark Magazine - Alexandra Wilson, Ben Brennan, Mazigh Fares and Andy Clarke |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A magazine, newsletter or online publication |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | A feature about the team and their research in the Glasgow Science Centre's community magazine "The Spark" which was distributed to over 6815 people across Glasgow and wider. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| URL | https://www.glasgowsciencecentre.org/sites/default/files/The-Spark/The%20Spark%20-%20Issue%2012%20-%... |
| Description | 24/03/2021 - What makes viruses tick project - WalkHighlands Blog for Tick Bite Prevention week - Ben Brennan, Alex Wilson and Mazigh Fares |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | A blog highlighting the work of the team and also how to remain tick safe when out and about in scotland for tick bite prevention week |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| URL | https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/news/tick-bites-how-to-prevent-and-deal-with-them/ |
| Description | 24th Annual Glasgow Virology Workshop June 2019 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | The CVR hosted the 24th Glasgow Virology Workshop (GVW) on Friday VV June 2019 (Sir Charles Wilson Building, University of Glasgow). This annual one-day meeting aims to communicate the latest innovative science in the world of virology, and to promote interactions between scientists and a variety of stakeholders throughout the world. This meeting is an informal and welcoming one day event comprising a mix of presentations from both external and internal speakers, along with networking sessions. It is rounded off by an evening ceilidh to provide attendees with a more relaxed opportunity to engage with one another. The annual event attracts a wide age range of attendees (from undergraduate students through to healthcare professionals, members of the biotech industry to retired professors), providing an ideal opportunity to catch up with former colleagues, establish new collaborations, and listen to truly inspirational science. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | 3MT Glasgow - Rommel J. Gestuveo |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Rommel J. Gestuveo was a finalist in the University's 2019 3MT competition with his talk on: Zika virus: outsmarting the clever The Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) is an academic competition for research students, challenging them to present their research to a non-specialist audience and giving them the opportunity to practice their public engagement skills. Participants present their research verbally in just three minutes with related content presented on one PowerPoint slide. Heats take place in each of the four colleges and one winner and two runners-up from each of the four heats go through to the Grand Final. In their presentations, participants should explain: What your research is about How you intend to carry out your research Why your research matters or/and who it affects. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| URL | https://www.gla.ac.uk/research/ourresearchenvironment/prs/pgrcoursesandevents/threeminutethesiscompe... |
| Description | 4-12/09/2021 - What makes viruses tick project - Glasgow Science Festival in person delivery - Ben Brennan, Alexandra Wilson, Mazigh Fares and Andy Clarke |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Delivery of activities at the glasgow science festival as part of their event at the botanic gardens in Glasgow. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| Description | 59th Annual GUVMA Rodeo |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | GUVMA's Annual Rodeo offers a day of fun and entertainment for the whole family, while supporting several charitable causes. CVR researchers took along various 'hands-on' activities to discuss the work of the CVR with visitors to the Garscube campus. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| Description | Alain Kohl - STV Interview 21 May 2018 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | As an experimental vaccine for Ebola virus was launched in the Democratic Republic of the Congo today, CVR researchers provided expert opinion in the media. Alain Kohl was interviewed by STV news on 21 May 2018, while our new clinical lecturer in infectious diseases Janet Scott was interviewed by TVC Nigeria on the same day. CVR postdoc Connor Bamford also published an article in I News urging for an urgent approach to contain the latest outbreak. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | Alain Kohl STV Interview 21 May 2018 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Following the resurgence of Ebola in the DRC, the CVR was approached to provide an expert to give an interview on STV evening news. Prof Alain Kohl agreed to take part. The clip is not available due to licence rights. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | Annual PCR Workshops September 2019 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Each year the CVR runs a series of 6 individual workshops for Higher Biology school pupils. Around 100 pupils attend each workshop and travel from schools throughout Scotland. The workshops are fully booked each year and run in collaboration with the Glasgow Science Centre and supported by Thermo Fisher. The workshops require the support of around 15-20 volunteers from the CVR and wider MVLS each year. The workshops provide pupils with experience and knowledge they would not normally receive until attending university. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | April 2018 - NCCPE Academy - Claire Donald |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | In April 2018 CVR postdoc Claire Donald applied for the NCCPE Academy for public engagement. This incentive was supported by funding from the MVLS to support travel and accommodation to allow Claire to attend a series of workshops intended to provide bespoke development for early career researchers with an interest in public engagement and possibly a future career in the field. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.publicengagement.ac.uk/ |
| Description | August 2016 - Dr Alain Kohl Interview Request BBC Radio Scotland |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Dr Alain Kohl was approached by a researcher working for BBC Radio Scotland with a request for an interview about the Zika virus outbreak. On this occasion, Alain was unable to take part in either a pre-recorded or a live interview. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| Description | August 2016 - STV Zika Interview |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Following the announcement of cases of Zika virus being identified in Scotland, STV requested an interview with Alain Kohl and Claire Donald. A special report aired on the evening news programme. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | August 2016 - Zika Snakes and Ladders Activity Design |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | In August 2016, Dr Claire Donald developed a new activity for use at events and exhibitions to support our aims to educate members of the public about the Zika virus in response to the high profile global outbreak. The game was designed from scratch, with a key focus on tone of voice and creative content to ensure it was tailored to our target audience (8 year old children). |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | August 2017 - World Mosquito Day Blog post series |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | In August 2017 we published one blog post a day over the course of a week to provide information about the research of 7 CVR researchers involved in mosquito-borne disease research. Each researcher was asked to provide copy and images for each post. Over the course of 7 days, we received 524 views/reads of our blog, demonstrating that a series of posts appeals and entices repeat following and engagement. Each blog post was shared on social media with an average minimum reach of 500 per post - http://cvr.academicblogs.co.uk/2017/08/ |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | BBC reporter Ken MacDonald special report - October 2018 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | In October 2018 the MRC press office arranged a visit and interview with BBC reporter Ken MacDonald. Alain Kohl, Claire Donald, Ben Brennan and Emilie Pondeville have been interviewed for a special feature about the mosquitoes and ticks that play a vital role in their research here in Glasgow. the story received coverage on BBC radio Scotland and aired on BBC Scotland television on 31 October - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-46032486?fbclid=IwAR3c0mhoBS1EA3XF5pxcDtO9pQOl4VYvCaJz85MYUeMDCEvqh2swzP-Y9ZI This was an important opportunity to allow the CVR to share information about our centre out with a virus outbreak. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | Bacterial allies make dengue fever cases dive - BBC Online news Article - Professor Steven Sinkins |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Recruiting a bacterial ally that infects mosquitoes has led to huge reductions in cases of dengue fever, trials around the world show. BBC News online article |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| URL | https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-50487724 |
| Description | Brownie, Guide, Scout and Rainbow Workshops - Nov 2017 - present (2019) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | CVR postdoc Claire Donald, Sara Elg (former CVR Research Technician) and CVR Store Manager Michelle Pearson have all had a pre-existing and long-standing relationships, supporting local guide groups in their spare time. Claire was approached by one of the Guide groups in the Fife area and was asked to run an evening of science activities for the group. The following is an evaluation report created by Claire Donald following the initial event: 'Exhibition Details: The initial night at the 1st Cairneyhill Guides consisted of 4 outreach activities. The girls were split into groups of 4/5 and rotated around each activity spending approximately 10mins at each one. The activities included 'Build a Virus' (with Zika, HCV and Ebola model options), origami viruses, jelly cells and pages from the CVR colouring book. There was adequate space for each of the activities and knowing the exact number of people attending allowed us to be fully prepared with ample materials, the number of volunteers who went along as well as being able to anticipate what level we needed to pitch at. Both volunteers were experienced and able to handle the questions posed. Overall the event was a very positive experience for our researchers and got a good response from the girls involved. Stand visitors: The evening was held at the Guide meeting place (Cairneyhill Scout Hall) and was organised into 4 stands. The maned activities were Build a Virus and the jelly cells while the origami viruses and colouring sheets were supervised by the Guiders. After 10mins at the activity, the groups rotated so everyone got a chance to try each activity. The girls were between 10-14 years old although most were around 11-12. The guide unit posted pictures on their Facebook page whilst we were there and the CVR tweeted after the event. Feedback: We used a sticker ratings chart in order to assess the impact of participation as a positive learning experience for all the Guides involved. We received positive feedback throughout the session but we were also able to glean interesting insights into their perception of viruses and infection. Having set numbers at each table for a set time allowed us to control what we said so that everyone at the table could get as much from the experience as possible. All of the activities were well received as evidenced by the feedback sticker sheet we gave the girls. The girls were very engaged with the researchers and asked excellent questions. Many already had a bit of science background from parents etc and were keen to get involved in all the activities. We passed our contact details onto the Guiders in charge and allowed them to pass them on to other interested units. We had a response the next day from another guide unit keen to have us along!' Project development Following the success of this initial event, further requests for sessions with different groups began to be directed to Claire and Michelle from across the wider Glasgow area and Fife. As word continued to spread, this began to extend to Scout groups and then to Rainbows. In total, CVR researchers volunteered to run a total of 22 workshops varying in size range from 1 February - 29 November 2018. We estimate that we have reached an audience of approximately just over 550 young people between the 4 - 18 age range, plus a minimum of 42 youth group leaders aged >18. In total 6 CVR researchers, 4 UofG undergraduate students and a member of UofG library staff were involved in running the 22 sessions. Learnings/activity development Following an initial session with a Rainbow group, it became apparent that more suitable activities were required to hold the attention of this younger age group. This offered a development opportunity for Claire and Michelle who went on to devise and develop two new activities - one involving making handmade soap to encourage discussion around the spread of viruses and one involving UV glow powder and torches, again to promote discussion around hand hygiene. Both activities proved to be incredibly popular with the younger age groups but were found to be equally useful for slightly older children. As the number of activities continued to increase, the programme of confirmed events was shared with the UofG public engagement forum to ask for support and involvement across the wider university. This led to a member of staff from the university library becoming involved in supporting the sessions. Evaluation summary A mix of methods were used to evaluate the sessions. Simple sticker charts and post it notes were used to collect thoughts from the youth groups. CVR researchers also asked question about their interest in science both at the start and end of sessions verbally. Verbal feedback was also obtained from the group leaders. We also monitored social media activity by the group leaders and given the number of requests for a high number of sessions, we took this as very positive feedback taking what was initially a single workshop to a total of 22 events. Follow-up activity Longer term, CVR researchers intend to continue the sustainability of this project by making teaching resources for activities available on the CVR Public Engagement webpages as well as running a session for group leaders in 2019 to provide education on running sessions for future groups. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017,2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | Brownie, Guide, Scout and Rainbow Workshops - Nov 2017 - present (2020) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | CVR postdoc Claire Donald, Sara Elg (former CVR Research Technician) and CVR Store Manager Michelle Pearson have all had a pre-existing and long-standing relationships, supporting local guide groups in their spare time. Since 2017 they have delivered hands-on activities to a large number of brownie, guide, scout and rainbow groups in Scotland. Follow-up activity Longer term, CVR researchers intend to continue the sustainability of this project by making teaching resources for activities available on the CVR Public Engagement webpages. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| Description | CVR Coffee Mornings |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | We have been holding monthly coffee mornings for staff and students within our social space since 2017 to offer an informal opportunity for people working across the centre to meet and network. The events are regularly attended by 50-70 people each time with attendance continuing to grow. Staff and students have provided positive feedback about this opportunity to meet with one another and make use of it as a chance to discuss work related matters or simply to make new connections. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | CVR Stoker Award 2019 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Every year, CVR early career scientists nominate and vote for an established, outstanding virologist who has made a significant contribution to their field. In 2019 CVR early career researchers presented the award to Professor Ann Palmenberg - plus podcast |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| Description | Claire Donald - I'm a Scientist June 2019 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Postdoc Claire Donald applied and was accepted to participate in the MRC I'm a Scientist competition as part of the MRC Festival 2018. Claire formed part of a panel of scientists who would spend 1 hour per day logged into an online forum where they would answer questions from school pupils from schools across the UK. Ultimately, pupils were asked to vote for an overall winner based on the scientist they believed had provided the best responses. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | Claire Donald - Pint of Science - 26 April 2018 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Claire Donald (postdoc) delivered a talk about Zika virus at the 2018 Pint of Science Event in Glasgow. The theme of the evening was 'From viruses to deadly fungi and 'Novel ways to control parasites from poo', |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | December 2016 - Dr Claire Donald Cafe Scientifique |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | In December 2016 Dr Claire Donald gave a presentation about her research on the zika virus for a Glasgow Café Scientifique evening. The presentation was followed by a Q&A and attended by around 50 people. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| Description | December 2016 - Dr Claire Donald Cafe Scientifique |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Dr Claire Donald gave a presentation on arboviruses and zika virus research at a Cafe Scientifique event held in Glasgow on 5 December 2016. This is a popular event attended by general members of the public every week. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | http://www.cafescientifique.org |
| Description | December 2017 - CVR Public Engagement Awards |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | In December 2017 we presented 10 researchers involved in public engagement activity across the centre to recognise their efforts during the Christmas staff meeting as part of our commitment to reward and recognition. Recipients offered very positive feedback and were delighted to have their efforts recognised in front of their peers. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016,2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | December 2017 - MVLS College Public Engagement Awards |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | In December 2017 the CVR was shortlisted in 4 separate categories for the MVLS College Public Engagement Awards. The shortlisted activities and initiatives included - Art Goes Viral (CVR colouring book), Contagious Thinking (the CVR digital media team) and the annual PCR workshops. All nominated as examples of high quality and inventive public engagement initiatives. CVR postdoc Claire Donald was also nominated as an Ambassador for Public Engagement. We were successful in receiving a team award for Art Goes Viral with a personal award going to Claire Donald. We shared our success on social media both on the CVR accounts as well as individual staff and students accounts. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | December 2017 - Stephanie Cumberworth Interview |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Undergraduate students |
| Results and Impact | In December 2017 CVR PhD student Stephanie Cumberworth was interviewed and filmed for a short clip to help share her research and experience of doing a PHD at the CVR. The clip was shared on the CVR Facebook and Twitter page and used as an opportunity to promote the CVR PhD programme 2018. Stephanie found the experience positive from a development point of view and the film has been viewed 68 times on youtube. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | Dr Alain Kohl - Brazilian Media Coverage February 2016 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Following an interview by a Brazil based journalist, Dr Alain Kohl featured in an article providing commentary on the zika virus outbreak. The article was picked up and shared on a number of media outlets and social media networks: http://www.agenciasinc.es/Reportajes/Brasil-en-alerta-por-los-miles-de-bebes-nacidos-con-microcefalia http://www.larazon.es/atusalud/salud/brasil-en-alerta-por-los-miles-de-bebes-con-microcefalia-AO11689393#.Ttt1O5CEhFNOLDW http://www.cienciaxplora.com/divulgacion/zika-virus-que-alarma-brasil-miles-bebes-nacidos-microcefalia_2016011400112.html http://noticiasdelaciencia.com/not/17781/brasil-en-alerta-por-los-miles-de-bebes-nacidos-con-microcefalia-/es/ http://www.panamaon.com/noticias/internacional/2049-brasil-se-enfrenta-al-virus-del-zika-que-puede-haber-causado-microcefalia-a-miles-de-bebes.html http://www.informativos.net/salud/alerta-en-brasil-por-los-miles-de-bebes-nacidos-con-microcefalia_55010.aspx http://www.oei.es/divulgacioncientifica/?Brasil-en-alerta-por-los-miles-de-bebes-nacidos-con-microcefalia |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2012,2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | Dr Alain Kohl - JBC Paper Press Release February 2016 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Dr Alain Kohl was asked to provide information and commentary for a press release issued by the University of Nottingham's Communications team. This is an example of the CVR's approach to working in partnership and sharing information with other centres and University Communications channels. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| Description | Dr Alain Kohl - Science and Technology Parliamentary Committee - February 2016 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | Dr Alain Kohl was requested to submit evidence for a parliamentary select committee related to the zika virus outbreak. the evidence was intended to influence the Parliament's response to the International crisis. The transcript can be viewed here. http://data.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/committeeevidence.svc/evidencedocument/science-and-technology-committee/zika-virus/oral/28805.html |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2012,2016 |
| URL | http://data.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/committeeevidence.svc/evidencedocument/science-and-technol... |
| Description | Dr Alain Kohl - Zika Virus Task Force February 2016 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | Dr Alain Kohl has been asked to join a task force of experts to provide advice and set out actions to help fight the Zika virus outbreak. Dr Kohl's recommendation will influence the steps taken for the management of the outbreak. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| Description | Dr Claire Donald Global Health Careers Event |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Undergraduate students |
| Results and Impact | Dr Claire Donald gave a presentation on 21 March 2017 as part of the Global Health Careers - Working Internationally Event. Claire gave a talk about her line of work in research and discussed the route she took in terms of education and training. Information about the event and Claire's presentation was included in the GHCE newsletter and circulated to the GHC network and event attendees. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | Dr Emilie Pondeville featured in the 'Stylist' |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A magazine, newsletter or online publication |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Work/Life is Stylist's regular column about the professional routines of successful women. Here, Dr Emilie Pondeville talks us through her one-day diary, from morning latte to lights out. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| URL | https://www.stylist.co.uk/life/careers/dr-emilie-pondeville-glasgow-zika-virus-malaria-science-women... |
| Description | February 2017 - Infravec2 Press Release - Alain Kohl |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Infravec2 press release - as a joint collaboration between the CVR, University of Glasgow press team and the Institut Pasteur, a press release was circulated to highlight the launch of Infravec2; an EU Commission project aimed at improving European infrastructures for the research of mosquitoes. https://infravec2.eu/news-about-the-infravec2-project/ The release was not circulated by the University press team, but the article appeared online and was shared on our facebook and twitter pages. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | February 2017 - Launch of Intravec2 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Infravec2 - a new European Commission 10M€ effort to fight mosquito-transmitted diseases - was officially launched via a press release in February 2017. The project, in which CVR scientists Emilie Pondeville and Alain Kohl participate, is funded by the Commission's Horizon 2020 Research Infrastructure Program, will improve the European large-scale facilities (infrastructures) for research on mosquitoes and other insects (vectors) that carry human and animal diseases, and will promote sharing of the facilities by European researchers. The CVR will make a vital contribution by providing access to our state-of-the-art facilities and in leading standardisation efforts to ensure better reproducibility. Read the full press release here: https://infravec2.eu/news-about-the-infravec2-project/ |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | February 2018 - Stephanie Rainey - Daliy Record Interview |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Following an interview with ITN News at Ten postdoc Stephanie Rainey was asked to take part in an interview for the Daily Record. the purpose of the interview was to share information about the work of the CVR and to inspire young people about the opportunities for a successful career in science in Glasgow. The article was shared in print, online and on our social media channels with 32 likes and a reach of over 400 on Facebook. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | First International Workshop on Zika Virus, Fiocruz Recife, Northeast Brazil, March 2016 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | This workshop brought together scientists and clinicians at the start of the Zika virus outbreak in Recife, Brazil. The event also included the participants in this collaboration between MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research and Fiocruz Recife, Brazil (Drs Alain Kohl, Lindomar J. Pena and Rafael Freitas de Oliveira Franca). It covered topics from arboviruses/Zika/vaccines, virus-vector interactions, clinical aspects to diagnostics that were relevant to the outbreak. While primarily aimed at an academic audience, presence of media and politicians was noted. Over 600 participants and live web streaming received over 4000 accessions from 26 countries indicate relevance, success and reach of this event. Importantly, this was held in the ODA recipient partner country. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0004760 |
| Description | Garscube Rodeo 16 April 2018 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | CVR Attendees: Claire Donald (Research Associate) Sara Elg (Research Technician) Michelle Pearson (CVR Stores Manager) Margus Varjak (Research Associate) Betty Lau (Research Assistant) Emma Duncan (UofG Undergraduate) Hannah (UofG Undergraduate) Exhibition Details: The CVR arranged for a stand at the 2018 rodeo and brought along our 'Build a Virus' (with Zika, HCV and Ebola model options) activity. There was a steady stream of people throughout the day, most of whom seemed to enjoy it. We had a good ratio of researchers who were experienced with the activity and those who were doing it for the first time. The number of volunteers was optimal for the number of visitors we had throughout the day. Everyone was busy but were able to take time for breaks throughout the day. Overall the event overall was a very positive experience for our researchers and a good opportunity for students to gain PE experience in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. It was also a good opportunity to engage with children who would not necessarily get the chance to attend a more formal science outreach event. Stand visitors: The stand was consistently busy throughout the 6-hour session with around 90 children plus adult guardians stopping by to try out the activity. We monitored the number of stall visitors we had by counting the number of bags we gave out and we predict that they spent approximately 10 minutes at a time at the stand, providing good opportunities for conversation, questions and discussion. Most of the children were primary school age (5-12 years old). Feedback: We used a sticker rating chart in order to assess the impact of participation as a positive learning experience from the children involved. We received positive feedback throughout the session but we were also able to glean interesting insights into the public perception of viruses. Some people commented that it was nice to have such a stall in amongst the other charity stands to give the children something to occupy them. One parent asked if we did school visits as her son's school would be interested in something like our activity. Follow-up: This was the first time we had attended the Rodeo and it was very successful. The activity was well received. We were well prepared for the volume of people we would have at the stand and had ample supplies with us. Unfortunately, we did not have access to enough t-shirts to hand out to all of the volunteers making it difficult for people to recognise who we were however we used the CVR printed lab coats instead which were very recognisable. It was felt that this stand was useful as it allowed us to do science outreach on our doorstep and would appeal to people who would not come along to a large science festival. A number of stall visitors asked if we had a collection tin so if the CVR returned in subsequent years we could maybe provide a charity tin to raise money for a chosen cause. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | Glasgow Science Festival Science Sunday - June 2019 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | CVR researchers took a range of popular activities (build a virus, glovebox chamber game and Biolegomatics along to the Science Sunday event as part of the Glasgow Science Festival. 10 researchers from the CVR volunteered for the event and they estimated that they interacted with around 200 people over the course of the day. The activity was also supported by social media activity. MP Patrick Grady also made a point of visiting the stand to try an activity, take a photograph and tweet about the day. Stand visitors tend to have a keen interest in science but it is an opportunity for families to have a fun day out and learn something new. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| URL | https://twitter.com/CVRinfo/with_replies |
| Description | Glasgow Science Festival Science Sunday 10 June 2018 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | CVR researchers took a range of popular activities (build a virus and glovebox chamber game) along to the science Sunday event as part of the Glasgow Science Festival. They used this as an opportunity to trial a new activity called Biolegomatics. 11 researchers from the CVR volunteered for the event and they estimated that they interacted with around 200 people over the course of the day. The activity was also supported by social media activity. MP Patrick Grady also made a point of visiting the stand to try an activity, take a photograph and tweet about the day. Stand visitors tend to have a keen interest in science but it is an opportunity for families to have a fun day out and learn something new. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | International Women's Day |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Twitter celebration of International Women's Day highlighting that only female mosquitoes bite, but to study arboviruses we need both male and female mosquitoes for successful colonies. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| URL | https://twitter.com/CVRinfo/status/1103948966604038144 |
| Description | January 2017 - CVR PhD Student Blog Post |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | In January 2017 3 of our PhD students Yasmin Parr, Stephanie Cumberworth and Weronika Witkowska produced a blog post to share information about their work at the CVR. The post reached over 600 people on social media. http://cvr.academicblogs.co.uk/meet-some-of-our-new-contributors-1/ |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | Jo Swinson MP visits the CVR 25 September 2018 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | Following the official opening of the Scottish Centre for Macromolecular Imaging, Jo Swinson MP accepted an invitation to visit the CVR to learn about the centre. Jo was offered an overview of our research and given a tour of the new imaging centre along with our insectaries while meeting a number of our researchers across different career levels. Jo tweeted about her visit and sent on a handwritten note to express her appreciation and interest. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | July 2016 - Dr Alain Kohl is interviewed for an article in Newton Fund Magazine |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A magazine, newsletter or online publication |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Dr Alain Kohl is interviewed for an article in Newton Fund Magazine about his Newton fund research project. As a result, the MRC press office got back in touch with Dr Kohl to request an interview with BEIS. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | July 2016 - MRC Life Submission |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A magazine, newsletter or online publication |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | In July 2016 we submitted an article for MRC Life to highlight a story about Dr Claire Donald and Dr Alain Kohl, who took part in a Reddit Ask me Anything online Q&A session. The article feature in the September edition of the publication, which is distributed across all of the MRC funded centres. The publication is a useful tool to share the work of the CVR with a wider audience, including partners, collaborators and our stakeholders working at the MRC. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | July 2016 Alain Kohl and Claire Donald - Zika Virus Reddit Ask me anything session |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Dr Alain Kohl and Dr Claire Donald took part in an online Reddit AMA focusing on the Zika virus outbreak in July 2016. They received and answered just over 100 questions from people from all over the World. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | July 2016 Zika virus News Story - Daily Mail |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | A story was published in the Daily Mail newspaper and website to promote up to date Zika virus research. Dr Alain Kohl featured http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-3652623/Why-REALLY-shouldn-t-scratch-mosquito-bite-Inflammation-itching-helps-viruses-like-Zika-spread-body.html#ixzz4CIZBBBKd. The story also featured in MRC Research in the News |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | June 2017 - Art Goes Viral - CVR Colouring Book |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Adult colouring books have become hugely popular and although you can find one based on just about any theme, at the MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research (CVR), we knew that something was missing An inspired group of CVR scientists decided to tap into this market, creating our own unique version that would allow others to explore the fascinating world of viruses and learn about the incredible work of the CVR. The journey began in November 2016 with the submission deadlines for two key science festival proposals on the horizon. A team of sci-comm enthusiasts gathered around a meeting room table for what would be the start of the colouring book, 'Art Goes Viral'. Our ideas morphed into life over the coming months, resulting in a captivating virology field guide comprising a mix of eye-catching illustrations and quick facts to help explain how we study viruses and disease. The book was written and illustrated by PhD students Stephanie Cumberworth, Yasmin Parr, Alexandra Hardy, Joanna Crispell and Weronika Witkowska, post-doctoral researcher Connor Bamford and principal investigator Ed Hutchinson, with the help of CVR communications officer Siobhan Petrie. The team put great consideration into the content of the book, ensuring that it would offer an engaging and appealing educational resource, accessible both to adults and to a younger audience. To achieve this, we developed copy targeted at an average reading age of 10 years old and put considerable thought into translating complex ideas about the microscopic world. The extensive efforts and dedication of the team resulted in an impressive piece filled with clear and visually appealing images and copy. We launched 'Art Goes Viral' in June 2017 at a book launch event in a popular bar as part of the Glasgow Science Festival. Participants received a copy of the book and learned about viruses by helping to design and build colourful mobiles and models based on viral structures. The event was a hit with both attendees and volunteers alike, providing an inspiring break from adult life and leaving more than a few of us covered in glitter. Among our guests, we were delighted to welcome 5 STEM teachers who are a very important target audience. Discussion was key in understanding what appealed about our resources and how our audience would make use of them longer-term. This was crucial in developing our understanding of the book as a potential educational resource for schools, and to identify the ideal target age range for use. We were also particularly keen to find out what most interested attendees about virology research to help shape our future activities. To ensure adequate time for discussion, the event was supported by 12 researchers from across the centre. We also signposted our guests to the public engagement section of our website, where it is possible to access pdf copies of our artwork templates as free educational resources. This was particularly welcomed by teachers who viewed the resources as useful classroom activities. Next up was the MRC Festival and the launch of an online competition promoted via our CVR social media channels, the UofG and MRC Twitter accounts, and networks such as psci-comm and SCOTPEN. We also shared information with Communications and Public Engagement stakeholders across the wider University, and with relevant external organisations such as the Microbiology Society. Participants were asked to visit our website to print off and colour their favourite image, then email or tweet a picture along with a favourite fact from the book. Bespoke hashtags helped to create an engaging online conversation filled with colourful images and facts from the book. Art Goes Viral was a big endeavour to bring to life, so our team was determined to deliver a resource that offered long-term scope to create and support new projects. So we were thrilled that the extensive digital coverage led to subsequent engagement opportunities and further promotion of the book. The Charity Hepatitis Scotland asked our researchers to take part in the Hepatitis See Exhibition at the Glasgow Gallery of Modern Art in July, using the book as a creative medium to engage in conversation with people affected by Hepatitis C virus. We were also contacted by the Glasgow Science Centre, the Bristol Science Centre, The Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology (University of Utrecht) and the Research Strategy and Innovation team of the UofG, who all went on to make use of the book as part of their own outreach ventures. This provided an excellent opportunity to grow our reach to a much wider, previously un-tapped audience. We have also made use of the colouring book at a number of exciting events, which have allowed us to engage with the non-science community and underserved audiences. This included a family fun day at the Tesco supermarket in Anniesland, Glasgow and 'What women do'; an event targeted at Saturday shoppers in Glasgow, showcasing interesting career options for women. Both events provided an excellent platform to promote Art Goes Viral to a completely new audience for the CVR. We also attended the Middle of Scotland Music Festival (MoSSFest) for the first time this year, offering virus crafts for a new audience. Art Goes Viral is an exciting opportunity to target new audiences and work with communities who would not easily have access to such resources. We are now looking to the future and exploring new ideas to develop our work with underserved communities further in 2018. This includes translation into foreign language, increasing our reach into schools and the STEM network and more community interaction to help reach our goals. We are also working on a print on demand service, which will allow anyone to own hard copy of 'Art goes Viral' from Amazon for a minimal, not-for-profit fee. In the meantime, if you feel inspired by our nomination, 'go forth and be vibrant with colour' by printing off a copy of our book and why not share it with family and friends. http://www.gla.ac.uk/researchinstitutes/iii/cvr/publicengagement/colour/ |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | MRC Festival - Classroom Takeover @ Cleveden Secondary School 14 June 2018 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | As part of the MRC Festival, the CVR opted to run a session for higher biology pupils at a local secondary school. We approached one of the school teachers and following an initial discussion around what we could offer a date was agreed at the convenience of the school within the dates of the MRC Festival. We used this as an opportunity to obtain funding to develop one existing activity and to develop a brand new idea devised by our bioinformaticians. The CVR Glovebox Challenge was an existing activity that involves performing a series of intricate tasks inside a portable glovebox chamber while wearing PPE. The game is designed to help describe the conditions that can be found inside a wet lab and to introduce conversations about life working within a busy, cutting-edge laboratory. The glovebox chamber was due to go back into commission so funding for the MRC Festival meant we could replace the item and make use of it during our activity and beyond at future events. Biolegomatics This was a new activity developed by CVR bioinformaticians as a way to help explain the basic principles of genetic sequencing while also encouraging discussions around the role of a computer/data scientist. This activity proved particularly popular given the recent introduction of bioinformatics to the secondary school curriculum. Event preparation and format: CVR researchers began preparing for the event first by attending a mentoring session with Steve Allman to help develop ideas. They then went on to meet up on a further two occasions to refine timings and format and also to have a practice run-through. Our researchers structured the event by creating a story to explain the 5 key stages of research that follows a virus outbreak. Pupils were then divided into groups and each rotated round a series of 5 activities that helped to explain each of the 5 stages. We also planned to allow time for feedback at the end and took a quiz in case of any down time. In the event, we actually ran right up to the classroom bell. Feedback: We took feedback forms for the pupils and teachers to complete. Unfortunately, we ran out of time as the pupils were very engaged in the activities. We asked the teacher if he would ask the pupils to complete the forms in a later class. Unfortunately, this did not happen due to time constraints. We did however, receive incredibly positive feedback from all 3 teachers present who all commented on how enthusiastic and engaged the pupils were in each of the activities. We have also had multiple follow-up contacts from the class teacher who reported that the pupils were '100% enthused' and he also reported that the biolegomatics activity had helped pupils when they came to covering bioinformatics later in the school year. Follow-up: We have remained in contact with the class teacher as above and he has also in return been in touch to enquire about work experience opportunities. For this we directed him to sources of information and support within the MVLS College. We have also approached the school to ask of their interest in bringing pupils to the CVR for a visit as part of our festival activity in 2019. As a result we hope to maintain a longer term relationship with the school and to meet with our objective of inspiring the future generation of scientists. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | MRC Parliamentary Event 6 February 2019 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | The CVR participated in the MRC parliamentary event on 6 February 2019. This event was coordinated by the MRC Executive and was hosted by Lewis MacDonald MSP. Invitations were extended to all MSPs by the MRC. Richard Lochhead, Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science attended and gave a short speech. Cabinet Secretary for Health and Sport, Jeane Freeman also attended. From the CVR Alain Kohl, Claire Donald and Ben Brennan displayed at a stand with a poster, film clip of mosquitoes and augmented reality viruses with tablets. Massimo Palmarini and John McLauchlan attended as guests in the room. The CVR also extended the invitation to Vice Principal for Research Prof Miles Padgett, Dean for Research Prof Graeme Milligan and Head of Institute Prof Iain McInnes. In the run up to the event, the CVR followed up with 9 MSPs informing of our presence at the event. We received positive responses from Miles Briggs and Patrick Grady. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | March 2016 - Zika Funding Press Release and News Story |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Alain Kohl, David Bhella and Arvind Patel were among some of the researchers at the University of Glasgow who were successful in obtaining vital additional funding to support further research into Zika virus across 3 new projects. The University of Glasgow Corporate Communications team published an online news story and issued a press release. You can view the full news story at the following link: http://www.gla.ac.uk/news/headline_452965_en.html Due to the online coverage and social media activity, this news story reached a significant international audience. This activity has led to further requests for media interviews and engagement activity to promote zika virus research at the CVR. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | March 2017 - Alain Kohl - Financial Times Interview |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | In March 2017 Prof Alain Kohl was interviewed by the Financial Times on 10 March for commentary regarding the impact of Brexit on science research. We are not aware of any articles or impact. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| Description | March 2017 - Alain Kohl - New Scientist Interview |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | In March 2017 Alain Kohl was interviewed for an article about Zika virus for the New Scientist - https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg23331164-400-warmer-weather-could-bring-fresh-zika-misery/ The aim was to share the work and expertise of his research group with a global audience via a high-profile publication. The article was also shared on CVR Facebook and Twitter channels for wider circulation. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | March 2017 - British Science Week - Meet the Expert |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | In March 2017 3 CVR researchers led a meet the expert session at the Glasgow Science Centre as part of the programme of British Science Week 2017. Our researchers took along 3 CVR activities including Build a Virus, Body Fluids puzzle and Zika snakes and ladders. Our team met with approximately 150 children accompanied by guardians. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | March 2017 - Prime Minister Theresa May - Scottish News Conference |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | In March 2017 during a visit to Scotland Prime Minister Theresa May recognised and referenced the CVR's zika virus research programme during a news conference interview. we believe this was a result of our overall efforts to engage with politicians and extensive media engagement during 2016 and 2017. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | Max Perutz Award 2018 - Stephanie Cumberworth |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | CVr PhD student Stephanie Cumberworth submitted an entry for the MRC Max Perutz Award 2018. The competition receives >1000 entries and Stephanie was successful to be among 10 shortlisted candidates for the prize. Stephanie attended a reception in London in October 2018. The competition is designed to allow PhD students to reach a wider audience with their research. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | May 2016 - Dr Alain Kohl interview Globalpost |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Dr Alain Kohl is interviewed by a journalist for the Globalpost for an article about Zika virus outbreak and research. The journalist has subsequently published two stories related to the outbreak |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| Description | May 2016 - Dr Alain Kohl is interviewed by Sputnick News |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Dr Alain Kohl was approached by Sputniknews (an Edinuburgh based news channel) to arrange an interview about the Zika virus outbreak and research. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| Description | May 2016 - Dr Alain Kohl is interviewed live by the BBC (including BBC World News) and Radio 5 live |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Dr Alain Kohl is interviewed by 3 high profile media channels regarding latest updates on the Zika virus outbreak and his research. The interviews have led to further requests and interest from Policy makers. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | May 2016 - Dr Alain Kohl, Dr Esther Schnettler and Dr Emilie Pondeville University of Zika virus Press Release |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Dr Alain Kohl, Dr Esther Schnettler (CVR affiliate) and Dr Emilie Pondeville provide commentary on a press release issued by the University of Leeds related to partnership research on the Zika virus. This led to articles in the media and further requests for information/interviews. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | May 2016 - Dr Alain is interviewed by BBC Radio Scotland |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Dr Alain Kohl is interviewed by BBC Radio Scotland regarding the Zika virus outbreak and his research. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | May 2019 - MRC Public Engagement Training Session Steve Cross |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Undergraduate students |
| Results and Impact | The MRC offered Public Engagement training from freelance consultant Steve Cross in May 2019. The session was offered to all MRC centres taking part in the MRC Festival of Medical Research across the UK. 12 CVR researchers including a mix of students and staff attended the session and provided positive feedback relating to their experience of the day. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| Description | Meet the Researcher Showcase Event 13-14 March 2018 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | On 13 and 14 March 2018 Ilaria Epifano (PhD student), Michaela Conley and Maria Vittoria Mancini (both postdocs) attended a two day event that took place in both the Dundee and Glasgow Science centres to run an exhibition attended by 200 Higher Biology School pupils from across Scotland each day. Our researchers used our build a virus activity to engage in conversation and took leaflets to share information about entering a career in virology. They estimate that they engaged with around 100 school pupils each day and have been asked to participate again and support the venture twice in November 2018 and again in March 2019. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | Meet the Researcher Showcase Event Feb 2020 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Ilaria Epifano and Michaela Conley attended a two day event that took place in both the Dundee and Glasgow Science centres to run an exhibition attended by 200 Higher Biology School pupils from across Scotland each day. Our researchers used our build a virus activity to engage in conversation and took leaflets to share information about entering a career in virology. They estimate that they engaged with around 100 school pupils each day. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2020 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | Nov 2018 Stephanie Cumberworth Blog post |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | CVR Communications Officer Siobhan Petrie shared a blog post to highlight the success of Stephanie Cumberworth who was shortlisted for the MRC 2018 Max Perutz Award. The post contained Stephanie's article - The Zika virus and a brain in a dish: https://cvrblog.myportfolio.com/copy-of-the-zika-virus-and-the-brain-in-a-dish https://cvrblog.myportfolio.com/copy-of-the-zika-virus-and-the-brain-in-a-dish approx 61 page views |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | November 2016 - Dr Alain Kohl Sun Newspaper Commentary |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | In November 2016, Dr Alain Kohl provided commentary for a news story that featured in the Sun newspaper both in print and online related to his research on the Zika virus. The article instigated online discussion via comments. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | November 2016 - Dr Alain Kohl is interviewed for an article in The Sun |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Dr ALain Kohl is interviewed and features in The Sun newspaper and website for an article related to Zika virus research breakthrough https://www.thesun.co.uk/living/2134121/new-treatment-protects-unborn-babies-from-being-infected-with-zika-virus/ |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.thesun.co.uk/living/2134121/new-treatment-protects-unborn-babies-from-being-infected-wit... |
| Description | November 2017 - Girlguiding Dunbartonshire Workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | In November 2017 a group of CVR researchers work with a local guide leader (and also a member of CVR staff) to arrange an evening workshop of interactive activities for a local Girlguide group. Through a mix of popular CVR activities, our team of researchers provided education about viruses, research and information about pursuing a successful science career. Since the event, a further session has taken place leading to two further requests for involvement with additional groups. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | October 2016 - Dr Alain Kohl MRC Talks Podcast |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | In October 2016 Dr Alain Kohl was interviewed to feature in a podcast about interdisciplinary research for the MRC Talks podcast. The podcast was shared by the MRC and the CVR on social media. With 566 people listening to the podcast on soundcloud. https://soundcloud.com/the_mrc/mrc-talks-episode-9 |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | October 2016 - Dr Alain Kohl STV, BBC Radio Scotland Interview and Media Activity |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Dr ALain Kohl and his team publish a paper in PLOS in October 2016 as a result of sequencing the full genome of the Zika virus. Following the distribution of a press release by the University of Glasgow Corporate Communications team, Dr Kohl and Dr Donald were interviewed by STV and also featured in the following media coverage: Scientists at Glasgow University make Zika breakthrough which could unlock secrets of the virus (Web) Herald Scotland - 06/10/2016 Glasgow team makes breakthrough in Zika virus research (Web) STV - 06/10/2016 Zika breakthrough? Scientists identify molecules that take over the immune system - and how to stop them (Web) Daily Mail - 06/10/2016 STV West - 6 October 2016 - 07:10:02 STV West - 06/10/2016 07:10:02 Ground-breaking genetic research by Glasgow University has uncovered more about the Zika virus. BBC Radio Scotland - 06 October 2016 - 06:48:17 BBC Radio Scotland - 06/10/2016 06:48:17 Scientists at the University of Glasgow have been able to sequence the Zika virus genome. Includes interview with Dr Claire Donald. STV West - 05 October 2016 - 22:59:44 Scotland Tonight, STV West - 05/10/2016 22:59:44 Tonight, scientists at Glasgow University have published ground-breaking research into the Zika virus. Includes interview with Dr Alain Kohl. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | October 2016 - Dr Alain Kohl ZikAlliance Press Release Announcement |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | In October 2016, Dr Alain Kohl joined ZikAlliance - a European Commission Consortium set up to provide essential research support to tackle the Zika virus outbreak. A press release was distributed to announce the initiative. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | October 2016 - Dr Alain Kohl Zika Virus Lectures |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | In October 2016, Dr Alain Kohl delivered a series of lectures about his research on the Zika Virus. Dr Kohl gave lectures at the University of Glasgow (for the Medical Infection and Immunology Society Conference, a One Health meeting at the University of Edinburgh and at St Andrews University for the Hispanic Society). Hi audience captured students, researchers and general members of the public |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | October 2016 - Dr Claire Donald interview Chikungunya virus |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Dr Claire Donald is interviewed to produce an article about Chikungunya virus - http://www.newindianexpress.com/magazine/2016/oct/15/mosquito-menace-the-ever-daunting-task-of-vector-borne-disease-control-1527632.html?pm=231 |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | October 2016 - MRC Podcast Dr Alain Kohl |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Third sector organisations |
| Results and Impact | In October 2016, Dr Alain Kohl was approved by the MRC Head Office Communications team with a request to take part in a podcast and an accompanying article for the MRC digital media channels. Dr Kohl was interviewed about his experience of interdisciplinary research based on his work on the research of arboviruses and his collaborations in this field. The podcast reached an audience of 563 with an audience of >500 for the news article. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | October 2016 - ZikAlliance Consortium - Dr Alain Kohl |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | ZIKAlliance is a multinational and multi-disciplinary research consortium comprised of 52 partners worldwide and coordinated by Inserm, the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research. ZIKAlliance is funded by the European Union's Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme. The project will investigate clinical, fundamental, environmental and social aspects of ZIKV infection. In particular, ZIKAlliance will focus on the impact of ZIKV infection during pregnancy and the natural history of ZIKV in humans and their environment. In collaboration with two other EC funded consortia (ZikaPLAN and ZIKAction), ZIKAlliance will also work on the development of a preparedness platform in Latin America and the Caribbean. Dr Alain Kohl became a member of the consortium in October 2016 attending a kick off meeting in Brazil in December. Dr Kohl will make a significant contribution via expert opinion and research updates. The website and twitter page for ZikAlliance launched in January 2017. https://zikalliance.tghn.org/ |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | October 2017 - Alain Kohl - Media Interview |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Prof Alain Kohl was interviewed for a Luxembourg-based online magazine - http://delano.lu/d/detail/news/celebrating-science-catching-virology-bug/160142 |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | October 2017 - MoSSFest |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | In October 2017 a group of CVR researchers took a stand at the Middle of Scotland Science Festival in Glasgow. Our team used a mix of Art Goes Viral colouring book and craft materials as well as Zika snakes and ladders and the glovebox chamber activity. This was a collaboration with the Welcome Trust Centre for Micro Parasitology and also an opportunity to provide a public engagement experience for a University of Glasgow undergraduate student. The team estimate that they engaged with approximately 150 children along with adult supervisors. One researcher also produced the evaluation report for the event. The activity was shared on Twitter using the festival hashtag. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | October 2017 - Stephanie Cumberworth Skype a Scientist |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | In October 2017 CVR PhD student Stephanie Cumberworth took part in the 'Skype a Scientist' initiative and skyped a school class based in Portugal. this was a chance for Stephanie to share her work, career path and for students to ask questions. Stephanie shared her experience on her personal twitter account, which was in turn retweeted. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://twitter.com/88lfm88/status/923102558599643136 |
| Description | Outbreak: The Pub Quiz |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Join scientists from the Centre for Virus Research for some infectious fun at this pub quiz! Scientists will share their expertise and challenge your knowledge about the viruses hitting the headlines |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| Description | Participation in the IMAV 2019 Meeting - Microbiology Society |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | The Third International Meeting on Arboviruses and their Vectors took place September 5 and 6 at the University of Glasgow. As we see continuing transmission of pathogens such as dengue and chikungunya, the emergence of other arboviruses, as well as progress with understanding vector biology (including ticks, mosquitoes and midges) this area of research remains of high importance. The many scientists and clinicians from different areas of expertise who share an interest in arboviruses need a dedicated forum to discuss viruses and vectors in depth. This meeting provides a great opportunity to do so, and for people in the arbovirus research community to meet and exchange ideas. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| URL | https://microbiologysociety.org/event/society-events-and-meetings/imav-2019.html |
| Description | Patrick Grady MP visits CVR stand @ Tesco Anniesland Family Day Sat 21 July 2018 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | Following a visit to the CVR stand at Science Sunday on 11 June, Patrick Grady MP made a note in his diary and made a point of visiting the CVR stand at a local Tesco Family day in Anniesland, Glasgow on 21 June. The event was attended by >200 members of the local community and was supported by social media activity by the CVR. Patrick Grady is keen to maintain an ongoing relationship with the CVR. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | Patrick Grady MP visits the CVR at Science Sunday 10 June 2018 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | Patrick Grady MP attended the Science Sunday event as part of the Glasgow Science Festival. Mr Grady made a point of visiting the CVR stand and explained to our researchers that he was already familiar with the centre following a visit in 2017. Patrick helped to provide social media promotion of the event and also took note of the CVR's attendance at a family day hosted by Tesco in Anniesland, Glasgow which he then went on to attend in July 2018. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | STEM in The Gorbals @GorbalsSTEM |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | STEM in the Gorbals is a a series of innovative and ambitious public engagement and science communication events in conjunction with local primary schools in the Gorbals, promoting STEM engagement in areas with traditionally low participation. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| URL | https://www.gla.ac.uk/explore/scienceconnects/news/headline_593073_en.html |
| Description | September 2016 - Dr Claire Donald (The Conversation - Chikungunya) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | In September 2016, the CVR was approached by The Conversation in light of the Chikungunya outbreak in India. Dr Claire Donald, who is an expert in Arbovirus research, published an article - https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ - which reached a large, international audience. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch/ |
| Description | September 2016 - Dr Claire Donald The Conversation |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | In September 2016 Dr Claire Donald published an article in The Conversation about the Chikungunya outbreak in Dehli. the article was shared on our social media channels reaching an audience of >1000 people https://theconversation.com/delhi-has-been-hit-by-a-chikungunya-epidemic-what-is-this-disease-65592 The Conversation reaches a global audience. India is a key target audience for future communications related to our research and we plan to grow our reach in this area. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | September 2017 - Claire Donald - The Conversation - Zika virus |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | In September 2017 CVR postdoc Dr Claire Donald produced an article about the status of the Zika virus outbreak for The Conversation - https://theconversation.com/whatever-happened-to-the-zika-virus-82618. The article was also shared on the CVR Facebook and Twitter pages gaining a reach of 690 contacts on Facebook alone along with shares and likes. Claire also engaged with a reader who posted a question on The Conversation website. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | September 2017 - Explorathon |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | In September 2017 a group of 8 CVR researchers led an exhibition of activities at the Explorathon event at the Glasgow Transport Museum. Our team showcased 3 CVR activities including the glovebox chamber activity, build a virus and zika snakes and ladders. This very busy event (over 3000 free tickets are distributed) attracted approximately 200 children accompanied by adults to the CVR stand. Images were shared on social media reaching 609 contacts on Facebook alone. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | September 2017 - What Women Do Event |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | In September 2017 some of our female scientists attended the 'What Women Do' event at the Lighthouse, Glasgow - an event intended to showcase a range of interesting and successful career paths for women. It was a busy event and our researchers took along a number of fun activities to highlight the sort of work that they do at the CVR. Our team also encouraged participants to explore the positive options and solutions that can help women progress in a science career. Our team of researchers engaged in many quality discussions throughout the day and observed a positive change in opinions through their discussions. This was captured on posters using sticky notes. One discussion also encouraged our researchers to consider future event ideas - for example an event targeted at patients. Images from the day were shared on our social media channels reaching an audience of over 500 followers. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |
| Description | World Mosquito Day August 2018 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Undergraduate students |
| Results and Impact | At the CVR, we carry out world-leading research on mosquito ecology & control, as well as working on mosquito-borne viruses such as Zika, Dengue and Chikungunya. To mark World Mosquito Day, Stephanie Rainey explains the importance of the CVR's Wolbachia programme, while Alain Kohl talks about the discovery of Zika virus. Both were interviewed by the UofG press team with interviews shared with >20K followers: http://ow.ly/403i30ltuff https://twitter.com/UofGMVLS/status/1031469005490532353 https://twitter.com/UofGMVLS/status/1031512634900865024 |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| URL | https://www.facebook.com/centreforvirusresearch |