Overview
Polio Advanced Course in Vaccinology (PVAC ) is co-organized by the University of Geneva, the Qatar University in Doha (for the session in English), and the Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar (for the session in French). PVAC is a dynamic, specialized 5-day training program aimed at re-engaging health professionals and key stakeholders, reinforcing the global priority of Polio eradication, and enhancing the effectiveness of surveillance and response systems.
PVAC is designed to strengthen decision-making skills and technical capacity in support of the global effort to eradicate polio. Tailored for early- and mid-career health professionals, the course offers in-depth training in vaccinology with a specific focus on polio.
The course covers essential topics such as immunology, epidemiology, vaccine development, immunization strategies, regulatory frameworks, risk and crisis communication, and the social, ethical, and financial dimensions of eradication programs. Using a 360° approach to learning, PVAC combines scientific updates, real-world case studies, scenario-based planning, and interactive sessions led by experts.
Course date:
- English session in Doha from October 26 to 30.
- French session in Dakar from December 15 to 19.
Participants will:
- Gain practical skills in emergency preparedness and outbreak response
- Critically assess eradication strategies and lessons learned
- Apply scenario-based planning tools
- Engage effectively with stakeholders and communities
- Join the PVAC Alumni Network to build long-term professional collaborations
The course fosters cross-disciplinary understanding, expanding participants’ expertise beyond their immediate field, encouraging global thinking, and introducing new technologies and approaches. It empowers professionals to contribute meaningfully to the polio eradication mission—both in the field and at the policy level.
Selection Criteria
To ensure a meaningful and effective learning experience, we must limit the number of participants to a maximum of 50 people per session. We strongly encourage you to dedicate time and effort to submit a robust application to increase your chances of being selected.
Participants will be selected by the PVAC Scientific Committee according to their: educational background, work experience, decision-making level of responsibilities in vaccinology, and expected impact of the Course at personal, institutional and national levels. Each application is assessed individually by at least 6 Scientific Committee members.
Registration fees
Course participation, accommodation, and travel costs are covered by a fellowship for selected participants from Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs)
What services are included?
- Participation in the program
- Travel and Internal transfers between hotel and campus
- Accommodation in a single room at a selected hotel close to Campus
- Breakfasts, lunches, diners and coffee break services for the 5 days (including social events)
- Account to Alumni network.
Application process
To complete your application, please gather the following documents and information:
- Cover Letter: Outline your reasons for participating in the PVAC course and explain how it will contribute to your professional development. Discuss the impact you expect the program to have on your career, your institution, and vaccination strategies. This section is crucial for the selection committee. Maximum length: 450 words
- Education: In this section, please provide details of your academic background, including degrees, certifications, and relevant training. For each education entry, you will need to include the following information:
- University / Institution Name (Name of the university, school, or training organization)
- Dates (From: Start Year – To: End Year)
- Degree or Certification Name (Example: Bachelor’s in Biology)
- Field of Study / Description (Special mention, specialization, important project completed, etc. – up to 30 words)
- WorkExperience: This section should reflect your professional background. For each work experience entry, you will need to include the following information:
- Company/Organization Name
- Location (Country)
- Dates (Start month and year – End month and year or “Current” if ongoing position)
- Function / Job Title (Example: Project Management Intern)
- Short Biography: Provide a concise summary (up to 300 words) of your most relevant past experiences and current activities in vaccinology.
- Letters of Recommendation: Please submit twosigned and recentletters of recommendation on official letterhead:
- One letter from a senior authority at your current institution, confirming that your participation is supported (including the time you will be away for the course) and detailing your present and expected future responsibilities.
- One letter from an external expert with whom you have collaborated in the past.
Note: If your institution is recommending more than one applicant, each applicant must submit a separate letter.
Action: Scan the letters and attach them as PDF files to your application.
- Identity Document: To attend the course and arrange your travel, a valid passport is required. If selected, you will be asked to provide a scanned copy of your passport valid through the course dates. Please ensure your passport is up to date to complete administrative and travel documentation.
Application Form Template: Please find here the template of the application form for your information.
ATTENTION: If you are applying for the French session, you must submit your application in French. If you are applying for the English session, you must submit your application in English.
- Please note that only complete applications will be reviewed. If you encounter any issues or need assistance for your Application, please email poliocourse@unige.ch
- Deadline for application submission: June 6, 2025.
- If selected, you will receive a confirmation of participation and be asked to complete the administrative registration of official documents. Notification of the selection outcome will be sent by end of July 2025.
- Travel Planning: Once administrative registration of official documents is complete you will be contacted for the booking of your travel.
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