The Global Viral Ecosystem Research and Preparedness Initiative
▶Summary
The Global Viral Ecosystem Research and Preparedness Initiative (VERPI) is a comprehensive research programme addressing emerging infectious diseases through a One Health approach. VERPI project unites ten partners from eight countries across four continents — Europe, Asia, Africa, Northern America— to strengthen global research capacity for equitable pandemic preparedness. The VERPI scientific programme is structured around four main objectives 1. Strengthening capacity for pathogen discovery and characterisation 2. Accelerating countermeasures development: broad-spectrum antivirals, monoclonal antibodies and diagnostics 3. Enhancing biomarker discovery for viral pathogenesis and long-term health impacts 4. Leveraging community engagement to enhance public trust through transparent health communication. VERPI's innovative ""triple I"" —interdisciplinary, international, and intersectoral—framework leverages diverse expertise, transcends national boundaries, and bridges academic and clinical sectors. Central to VERPI's strategy are embedded secondments, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and a dynamic approach to translational research in emerging viral epidemics. This promotes a broad R&I platform for rapid response to future viral threats, supporting EU Sustainable Development Goals to strengthen early warning systems and health risk management capacities globally.""