ABSTRACT
Support is requested for a Keystone Symposia conference entitled Positive Strand RNA Viruses: Interdisciplinary
Advances in Virology, Pathogenesis, Immunology, and Technology Development, organized by Drs. Kizzmekia
Corbett-Helaire, William Klimstra and Jolanda Smit. The conference will be held in Killarney, Ireland from October
21–25, 2024.
Positive-strand RNA viruses have proven to be an impactful global health priority that is experiencing a unique
moment, which is fueled by the momentum of the COVID-19 pandemic and driven by the influx of new knowledge
and technologies. Successful scientific breakthroughs in this area are the result of advances in basic virological
understanding and molecular genetics, merged with other fields such as human immunology, structural biology,
and vaccine development. Together, these alignments have opened new multidisciplinary frontiers and created
exciting opportunities for virology research. This conference will take a tour of new knowledge in positive-strand
RNA virology starting with virus-host interactions and ending with technological and clinical development. The
interdisciplinary nature of the conference will provide novel insights across virology, viral immunity, vaccinology
and more. In addition, the conference will feature a diverse array of positive-strand RNA viruses, including
understudied viruses, revealing common themes and distinctions that might be leveraged for clinical utility.
Throughout the conference, new and emerging young investigators will be highlighted alongside field leaders to
bring forth new ideas and perspectives for discussion that will advance the field in innovative directions.
