Better Methods for Better Vaccines

Since Jenner first inoculated a young volunteer with his magic cure for smallpox in 1797, the power of vaccination in preventing infection and eradicating infectious diseases has surely been realized. This year, the spotlight has once again turned towards vaccines, as both scientists and the general public cling to somewhat remote hopes of a return to “normal.” Before now, the fastest we have ever managed to produce a vaccine in response to an outbreak was for Ebola – and that took five years to achieve full licensure. The rulebook may have been ripped up, but it is perhaps now more vital than ever that the entire vaccine development process is as efficient, precise, and cost-effective as possible. Developing the right analytical methods using the best tools for the job has an absolutely key role to play.