EHI successfully implemented a Virology MasterClass from 6 January to 10 February 2026 as part of its ongoing commitment to capacity building in health research. Delivered in a hybrid format (in-person and via Zoom), the program provided EHI research staff with an opportunity to strengthen their foundational knowledge in virology. The sessions were led by EHI Senior Researcher Benediktus Yohan Arman, DPhil, who shared exclusive teaching materials developed during his doctoral studies at the University of Oxford, offering participants both academic depth and a real-world scientific perspective.
The MasterClass covered a comprehensive range of topics in virology, beginning with the fundamentals, including virus classification and replication, and progressing to more advanced discussions on viral pathogenesis, epidemiology, vaccine strategies, and immune responses. Participants explored key concepts such as mutation and viral evolution, including how viruses adapt, evade immunity, and impact disease transmission. The program also highlighted the dual role of viruses: not only as disease-causing agents but also as powerful tools in biotechnology, including their use in gene delivery systems, vaccine platforms, and modern therapeutic development.
The program concluded with a post-test evaluation, where participants demonstrated excellent comprehension, achieving an average score of 95.4 out of 100. Overall, the Virology MasterClass strengthened participants’ ability to critically understand and apply virology concepts, reinforcing EHI’s role in advancing scientific capacity and supporting innovation in infectious disease research and public health.
