Series of seminars (4 per term) on vaccine research against infectious diseases of global importance including AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, childhood illnesses, and many others. Economic, political, and ethical dimensions of vaccine R&D are also covered. Leading vaccine experts at JHU, from industry and other institutions present the seminars. Series provides the student with an understanding of the pathways leading to development and utilization of vaccines with public health impact.

Learning Objectives:

Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:

describe the key barriers along the process of research, development, testing, evaluation, acquisition, and distribution of vaccines

cite specific examples of how financial and political factors interact with scientific issues to affect governmental and industry prioritization about vaccine development

describe how stakeholder motives (Iinvestor, corporate, public health agency, individual) can influence the fate of a vaccine R&D project