Vaccine Response and Immunotherapeutics (VRI) Scientific Working Group

The Vaccine Response and Immunotherapeutics Scientific Working Group (VRI SWG) serves as a collaborative hub within the Johns Hopkins research community, uniting investigators across disciplines to advance the science of vaccines and immunotherapies. By fostering synergy among clinical, basic science, and public health researchers, the VRI SWG promotes innovative approaches to understanding immune responses and improving health outcomes.

Mission Statement
The VRI SWG is dedicated to promoting multidisciplinary collaboration, education, and engagement among investigators focused on vaccine responses, vaccine utilization, and immunotherapeutics—especially in the context of people living with HIV (PLWH). Through strategic programming and mentorship, the working group helps catalyze research that addresses real-world challenges in infectious diseases and immunology.

Supporting Early-Stage Investigators

A core focus of the VRI SWG is the mentorship and development of early-stage investigators (ESIs). The group provides tailored support to help junior researchers formulate impactful research questions, develop competitive grant proposals, and establish themselves in the fields of vaccinology and immunotherapeutics. This includes guidance on studying vaccine uptake, hesitancy, and efficacy in vulnerable populations, particularly among PLWH.

Advancing Vaccine and Immunotherapy Research

The VRI SWG also offers institutional support for investigators seeking to launch or contribute to clinical trials focused on HIV and other infectious disease vaccines. As new candidates are developed, the working group helps researchers navigate trial design, regulatory pathways, and collaborative opportunities—ensuring that promising innovations can advance toward real-world application.

By strengthening scientific networks, sharing resources, and mentoring the next generation of researchers, the Vaccine Response and Immunotherapeutics SWG plays a vital role in accelerating progress in global vaccine research and immune-based therapies.

Grant number: P30A1094189

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