Patient Immunomonitoring II – a Deep Dive in Lab Procedures

WHY?

There is a critical need for comparative training in patient immunomonitoring techniques to ensure starting clinical immunologists can effectively choose, conduct and optimize the most fitting assays. By deepening their practical skills and understanding of specific pitfalls in the conduct of commonly used assays , professionals can better apply their knowledge to real-world research settings.

WHAT?

This is a three-week, full-time, face-to-face course in Antwerp, Belgium. Patient Immunomonitoring (PIM2) is designed as an extension to the PIM1 online course. It provides participants with intensive hands-on training in a range of immunomonitoring techniques, focusing on comparing, lab procedures while designing a detailed lab analytical plan to their own research objective(s) and setting.

FOR WHOM?

The course is intended for clinical immunologists who have successfully completed the PIM1 course or can demonstrate equivalent knowledge and competencies; and want to develop their own lab analytical plan for a given research project. Therefore, they should provide the relevance for an active or soon-to-start research project in the  field of patient immunomonitoring on infectious diseases. Participants should hold a Master’s degree in biomedical/clinical sciences and have a solid background in human immunology.

HOW?

Held at the Clinical Immunology Unit (CIU) lab at the Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) in Antwerp, Belgium, the course employs a flipped-learning approach. Participants prepare by reviewing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and engaging in peer discussions before attending intensive practical sessions. These sessions cover techniques such as cell isolation, antibody assessments, and T cell assays. The program includes lab work, group assignments, and the development of a tailored lab analytical plan (LAP) to your own setting. Assessment involves practical skills evaluation and the defence of a personalized research plan before an expert jury.