Achievement

CID Winter School: Advances in Primary Immunodeficiency: A Journey of Experience and Knowledge Sharing in Newcastle University

ZARINA THASNEEM BINTI ZAINUDEEN

Published : 10 August 2023

Picture 1: Group photo with delegates and faculty members on the last day of the workshop.

THE HELIX, NEWCASTLE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS, February 8 2023 -

Dr Zarina Thasneem Zainudeen, Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine,

Institut Perubatan & Pergigian Termaju, USM

A Winter School Workshop run by the UCL Centre for Immunodeficiency and Newcastle University, was held from 8 until 10th February 2023. About 45 delegates from various countries, mostly consultant and trainee clinicians in Paediatric and Adult Immunology and Biomedical Scientists working in Immunology, were chosen for this workshop. It was a privilege for me to participate as the only delegate from Malaysia, with bursary support that covers accommodation and course fee.

The aim of the workshop was to share local, national, and international experience and knowledge of managing patients with primary immunodeficiency (PID) and the scientific advances in the basic mechanisms and management of PID.

Embracing the Winter Chill, Igniting Warmth in Knowledge

The crisp winter air in Newcastle set the stage for an invigorating and intellectually stimulating Winter School. It was an intense three-day course, filled with lectures, case presentations, oral presentations, and informal discussion with esteemed faculty members like Prof Sophie Hambleton, Prof Andy Gennery, Dr Mirjam van der Burg, Prof Siobhan Burns and few others. As participants, we gathered from all corners of the globe, and delved into a diverse range of disciplines, from B cell development to gene and targeted drug therapies.

Lectures That Sparked Curiosity

From the intricacies of the role of HSCT in management of humoral immunodeficiency and CVID to gene therapy for myeloid disorders, each lecture was a learning opportunity to new realms of understanding. The interactive sessions during panel discussions and poster sessions, fostered an atmosphere of engagement, allowing us to delve deeper into the subjects that resonated with us.

Cultural Immersion and Networking

Newcastle's rich history and vibrant culture provided ample opportunities for cultural immersion and networking. Our evenings were filled with exploration, as we wandered through cobblestone streets, dinners at local restaurants, and engaged in insightful conversations over teas and coffee, with fellow participants and faculty members. These moments of connection extended beyond the Winter School, forming the foundation for professional collaborations.

Knowledge Sharing: Beyond Borders and Disciplines

One of the most interesting aspects of the Winter School was the seamless flow of knowledge across borders and disciplines. Case presentations and networking lunch between the sessions, enriched our learning experience and challenged us to think beyond our comfort zones.

Picture 2: Case presentation and discussion with faculty members

As I bid farewell to Newcastle and the Winter School and armed with newfound inspiration, I returned to USM with eagerness to apply what I have learned and to continue the cycle of knowledge sharing, among peers and students.

SDG 3 - Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages
SDG 4 - Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all
SDG 17 - Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development