Since its emergence, SARS-CoV-2 has radically transformed virtually every dimension of our lives and fueled an urgent global imperative to develop safe and effective vaccines. The stunning pace at which COVID-19 vaccines have been developed is unprecedented in the history of vaccinology, and has been catalyzed by the rapid harnessing of innovative new technologies (e.g. mRNA vaccines) and major public and private investments. The COVD-19 pandemic offers a unique vantage point from which to survey vaccinology as it was for the past two centuries since Jenner (Vaccinology B.C. [Before COVID-19]), as it now is, during the time of COVID-19, and to contemplate what it could be, in the post COVID era (Vaccinology A.C.).This meeting will bring together an interdisciplinary team of experts to discuss the lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic, with a particular focus on the immunology of vaccination.

Equally important has been the world’s focus on the economics, politics and ethics of how to ensure global equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines. This virus has certainly shone a spotlight on the field of Vaccinology, positioned as it is, at the focal point of immunology, microbiology, public health, clinical medicine, economics, sociology, ethics and international diplomacy. Thus, some talks will also be focused on these broader issues. It is hoped that this meeting will stimulate debate that helps enhance pandemic preparedness by redefining the way we conceive of, make, test, license and distribute vaccines globally.