TB eradication experts meet at Aberystwyth University

Professor Glyn Hewinson and Professor Bernardo Villarreal-Ramos

Professor Glyn Hewinson and Professor Bernardo Villarreal-Ramos

30 June 2022

Leading scientists gathered in Aberystwyth today (Thursday 30 June) to discuss the latest developments in the fight against tuberculosis (TB).

 

The conference, hosted by the Centre of Excellence for Bovine TB at Aberystwyth University, attracted over 100 scientists from across the UK.

 

The academics are all members of the Acid Fast Club, which was formed in 1954 by scientists at the National Institute for Medical Research.

 

It has become the main UK mycobacterial research society and meets twice a year to discuss all aspects of research in the field. 

 

It is now one of the main forums to discuss human and bovine TB.

 

Professor Glyn Hewinson and Professor Bernardo Villarreal-Ramos organised the Aberystwyth conference.

 

In the opening address of the conference, Professor Hewinson gave an overview of bovine tuberculosis in Wales and the work of the Sêr Cymru Centre of Excellence for Bovine TB at the University.

 

Speaking about the importance of the conference, Professor Hewinson commented:

 

“It was a pleasure to welcome all the experts here to Aberystwyth. We all know about the severe impact of TB on our communities: collaboration is vital as we seek the best way forward to eradicate it.

 

“This society and its conferences are very valuable for getting to know what research is happening around the UK nations, sharing knowledge and expertise, encouraging researchers at the early stages of their careers and building collaborations and friendships with other research scientists along the way. Its longevity, as it nears its seventieth anniversary, is a testament to the vision of its founders.”