Each year, our collaborators and co-applicants assemble a unique case study based on real-world public health challenges involving FWVZ pathogens. These case studies form the basis of our Annual Policy Challenge, a year-long project culminating in a five-day all-expenses-paid retreat.

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We challenge our PhD trainees, working in interdisciplinary teams, to pitch innovative policy solutions and outreach strategies to a panel of leading stakeholders in government and industry. Our Master’s trainees are then tasked with promoting these solutions, emulating accessible scientific media coverage, and generating public interest in FWVZ pathogens.

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Throughout the retreat, our trainees will receive coaching and mentorship from experienced leaders in health and public policy while they put the finishing touches on their policy solutions and media coverage. Our retreat peaks on its final day, when each PhD team will present their pitches to our panel of expert judges alongside an audience of their peers. PhD trainees should be prepared to answer questions and receive constructive feedback for professional development while our Master’s trainees receive feedback on their media coverage.