How do we stop the next pandemic before it starts? MUSICC brought the answer to the international table at a recent investor event.
MUSICC recently had the privilege of taking part in a major event organised by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), one of our key funders. The gathering brought together CEPI’s diverse network of investors and partners from around the world, all united by a shared commitment to global health security.
The event highlighted the UK’s involvement in global health research and innovation, showcasing partnerships funded by CEPI. These partnerships cover a wide range of CEPI’s work from early-stage research to vaccine development. MUSICC was able to show an additional edge; by demonstrating the vital collaboration of all our international partners and the key work they do to make this project possible. The event was a chance for CEPI’s Investor Council to meet the scientists and innovators driving the work behind their partnerships and foster meaningful engagement.
As part of the programme, MUSICC hosted a dedicated stand to showcase our mission and progress. Our project aims to deepen understanding of how immunity works in the body’s mucosal tissues. These areas, such as the nose and throat, are where infections often begin. Understanding this could help develop vaccines that stop viruses infecting the body, prevent severe illness and disrupt potential pandemics before they start.
Anatomical models were used to demonstrate the areas where mucosal immunity occurs and, along with vaccine delivery devices, how mucosal vaccines may be administered to the nose or mouth. Investors were also shown an example of the air sampling machine MUSICC uses to investigate how someone infected by a coronavirus may expel the virus into the air. The project’s colourful vignette, created in collaboration with artist 72kilos, proved to be the talk of the event! This created the perfect opportunity to discuss our progress and the importance of engaging the public, and other audiences, on our work.
The MUSICC stand provided an amazing opportunity to engage directly with investors, explain the science behind the project, and highlight the potential impact of our work on global health security and science literacy.
Our team had the chance to connect with representatives from many countries, listening to their perspectives and answering their questions about our work. These conversations were invaluable and highlighted the shared drive to find smarter ways to protect people from emerging diseases. There was a lot of interest from attendees in MUSICC’s work, and it was really inspiring to see new connections being formed in real-time.
MUSICC Project Manager Marla Geibel attended the event speaking to investors, and reflected very positively:
“It was great to showcase MUSICC’s vision and achievements at the CEPI stakeholder event in December. The strong interest in our work on mucosal immunity and the standout impact of our engagement tools reflect the momentum behind this ambitious five-year programme, which brings together 22 partners across multiple continents, and the dedication of both scientific and operational teams in driving its success.”
This event was more than an opportunity to present our work; it was a chance to build new partnerships that could make a real difference. By engaging with CEPI’s investors and partners, MUSICC is helping to ensure that cutting-edge science leads to practical solutions for protecting communities worldwide.
We’re very grateful to CEPI for hosting us at such an important event and to everyone who visited our stand. MUSICC is committed to continuing our work and working together to create a safer, healthier future.
