Patient Immunomonitoring II – a Deep Dive in Lab Procedures

WHY?

There is a critical need for comparative training in patient immunomonitoring techniques to ensure clinical immunologists can effectively choose, conduct and optimize immunological assays. By deepening their practical skills and understanding of laboratory procedures, professionals can better address common pitfalls, customize standard operating procedures, and 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 troubleshooting and optimizing lab procedures while designing their detailed lab analytical plan to their own research objectives 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. The course is particularly suited for participants with an active or upcoming immunomonitoring study in infectious diseases to which the content can be directly applied. 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 and B cell assays. The program includes lab work, group assignments, and the development of a tailored lab analytical plan (LAP) to you own setting. Assessment involves practical skills evaluation and the defense of a personalized research plan before an expert jury.