A Message to the Institute of Infection and Immunity Community
Dear colleagues,
It is an honour to be appointed the new Scientific Director of the CIHR Institute of Infection and Immunity (III).
As I begin this role, I would like to introduce myself and express my appreciation for the many people who make up the III community. Researchers, trainees, clinicians, knowledge users, community partners, Indigenous leaders and people with lived experience have all contributed their expertise, perspectives, and commitment to building a vibrant and globally respected ecosystem of research and innovation. I am grateful for the opportunity to join this community and excited to build on the strong foundation that has been established.
Throughout my career, I have been particularly interested in how the immune system responds to infection and in the potential for research to improve lives. As a microbiologist and immunologist, my research has focused on understanding immune responses to HIV and other infectious diseases, including through long-standing collaborations in Canada and Kenya. I have also had the privilege of mentoring students and trainees, building research programs, and contributing to the academic community as a professor and department head at the University of Manitoba. These experiences have reinforced for me the importance of collaboration and of bringing diverse perspectives together to address complex health challenges.
As I step into this new role, my first priority will be to listen and learn. I look forward to connecting with members of the III community across the country, hearing your perspectives, and learning more about your priorities and aspirations for the Institute. I look forward to working with the research community and its partners to build on III's strong foundation and support excellent research, training, and meaningful partnerships. Through these collective efforts, we will improve the health of people in Canada and around the world.
Warm regards,
Keith Fowke, PhD
Scientific Director
CIHR Institute of Infection and Immunity (III)
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