ANSO-PAS-MAAP Conference on “Pathogen transmission beyond borders: Understanding the complexities of cross-species infectious diseases”
October 16-18, 2023 Islamabad, Pakistan
Organized by
Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS)
Supported by
Alliance of International Science Organization (ANSO)
The spread of infectious diseases between species has grown into a major worldwide problem in our increasingly linked society. International travel and commerce have grown commonplace, emphasizing the complicated interplay of many species and the potential threats they bring to human health. These infections, known as zoonotic diseases, have the capacity to spread between animals and people, and their development has had far-reaching consequences, including noteworthy instances such as Ebola, avian influenza, and coronaviruses. These effects could go beyond individual health and affect economies, social institutions, and global security. In fact, it is estimated that over 60% of known infectious diseases are of zoonotic origin.
To effectively treat and prevent the development of cross-species infectious illnesses, a thorough understanding of the complicated complications associated with pathogen transmission across boundaries is required. Factors such as environmental transformations, deforestation, urbanization, agricultural practices, and wildlife trade can disrupt natural ecosystems and heighten the risk of possible cross-species infections, and pathogens leap from animals to humans. A thorough comprehension of the mechanisms governing pathogen transmission, the intermediary hosts’ role, and the genetic adaptations that facilitate cross-species transmission assumes paramount importance in formulating effective strategies for disease surveillance, outbreak control, and the development of targeted interventions. Successful mitigation of the multidimensional challenges associated with these infectious diseases requires close collaboration among researchers, public health agencies, veterinary professionals, environmental scientists, and policymakers.
To deliberate upon the gigantic role of scientists, researchers, policy makers, students, media, etc., and to arrive at possible strategies/recommendations, the Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS) in collaboration with the Alliance of International Science Organization (ANSO) and Monbukagakusho-MEXT Alumni Association of Pakistan (MAAP) is organizing an ANSO-PAS-MAAP Conference on “Pathogen transmission beyond borders: Understanding the complexities of cross species infectious diseases” on October 16-18, 2023 at the Pakistan Academy of Sciences, 3- Constitution Avenue, Sector G-5/2, Islamabad.
AIMS & Objectives
- Foster interdisciplinary collaboration among experts from diverse fields to tackle cross-species pathogen transmission.
- Promote the exchange of the latest research and advancements in pathogen transmission to ensure informed participants.
- Investigate mechanisms and factors contributing to pathogenesis, disease transmission, developing effective preventive measures.
- Enhance understanding of global disease dynamics, considering the impact of globalization, travel, trade, and the environment.
- Strengthen surveillance, early detection, and control strategies for cross-species infectious diseases, addressing public health implications through improved risk communication and preparedness.
TARGET AUDIENCE
The conference is open to students, researchers, scientists, clinicians & health workers, laboratory workers, virologists, pathologists, pharmacists, and related researchers. A great opportunity to meet renowned international and national speakers in person.
THEMES OF THE CONFERENCE
- Understanding the complexity of cross-species infectious diseases in a changing world.
- Epidemic dynamics at the wildlife-human interface: Lessons for public health.
- From wildlife reservoirs to global outbreaks: Interrogating pathogen mobility.
- Health assessment, disease monitoring, and reporting.
- Health promotion and health behavior.
- Health workforce training, education, zoonosis, animal diseases, and vaccines.
- Pathogens (viruses, bacteria, fungi etc.), molecular pathology, anti-virals, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and potential drug targets.
IMPORTANT DATES
| May 29, 2023 | 1st Announcement & Registration Commencement |
| September 01, 2023 | Due date for abstract and CV submission |
| September 07, 2023 | Notification of the acceptance of the abstract |
| September 21, 2023 | Due date for submission of the final paper* |
| October 01, 2023 | Registration due date |
| October 06, 2023 | Due date for submission of the presentation file |
*Selected/reviewed papers will be published in proceedings of Pakistan Academy of Sciences: Part B (HEC Recognized; Scopus Indexed)
PRELIMINARY PROGRAM
Sunday October 15, 2023 Arrival in Islamabad
Monday October 16, 2023 09:00 – 09:30 (Registration)
09:30 – 10:30 (Inauguration)
10:30-11:00 (Tea Break)
11:00-13:30 (First Tech. Session)
13:30-14:30 (Lunch & Prayers)
14:30-17:00 (Second Tech. Session)
19:30 (Welcome Dinner)
Tuesday October 17, 2023 09:00- 10:30 (3rd Tech. Session)
10:30-11:00 (Tea Break)
**11:00-13:30 (Poster Presentation)
13:30-14:30 (Lunch & Prayers)
14:30-16:00 (4th Tech. Session)
19:30 (Dinner)
Wednesday October 18, 2023 09:00- 10:30 (5th Tech. Session)
10:30-11:00 (Tea Break)
11:00-13:30
(Group Work & Preparation of Recommendations)
13:30-14:30 (Lunch & Prayers)
Concluding Session
Departures October 18, 2023 After the concluding session
CONTACT INFORMATION
Focal Person : Dr. Muhammad Ali (Email: [email protected])
For Abstract: Dr. Irum Iqrar (Email: [email protected])
Ms. Sidra Rahman (Email: [email protected])
For Registration: Mr. Syed Ahsan Shahid (Email: [email protected])
Mr. Saad Ullah ([email protected])
For hospitality & Mr. Hamza Waheed (Email: [email protected]; Tel: 051 9204843)
Information Mr. Muhammad Naseer (Email: [email protected])
LANGUAGE
English is the official language of the workshop. This language will be used for printed materials, presentations, and discussions.
VENUE OF THE WORKSHOP
Pakistan Academy of Sciences, 3-Constitution Avenue, G-5/2, Islamabad, Pakistan
WEATHER
The weather forecast shows a clear beautiful sky during the days of the conference (October 16-18, 2023). Usually, in October, the ambient temperature in Islamabad is 12℃ (lowest temperature) to 26℃ (highest) with a few days of rain.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
The conference is supported by ANSO under the collaborative research grant program.
ACCOMMODATION
PAS Fellows Lodge, Islamabad, Pakistan & selected guest house(s) in Islamabad
INTERNATIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
- P CAO Jinghua Executive Director, ANSO Secretariat
- ZHAO Minyan, Program Officer, ANSO (China)
- Zhengli Shi (China)
- David Hayman (New Zealand)
- Hongping Wei (China)
ORGANIZING COMMITTEE
- Dr. Khalid M. Khan, Patron & President PAS
- Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhter (SI), Co-Patron & VC QAU
- Dr. Tasawar Hayat, Co-Patron & Sec. Gen. PAS
- Dr. Zabta K. Shinwari, President MAAP & Convener
- Dr. Amin Badshah, Treasurer PAS
- Muhammad Ali, PI-ANSO Project (Focal person)
- Riffat M. Qureshi, Organizer
- Irum Iqrar, Organizer
- Sajid Majeed, Organizer
- Hamza Waheed, Organizer
- Muhammad Naseer, Organizer
- Afnan khan Shinwari, Organizer
Alliance of International Science Organization (ANSO)
ANSO is a non-profit international scientific organization founded in 2018 by the Chinese Academy of Sciences and 36 other global science and education institutions. It operates based on the principles of “joint consultation, joint effort, and joint sharing” aligned with the Chinese “Belt and Road Initiative.” ANSO’s mission is to promote shared and sustainable development, advance the UN SDGs, and facilitate international cooperation in Science, Technology & Innovation, and Capacity Building (STIC). ANSO focuses on addressing urgent regional and global scientific challenges while supporting the scientific capacity building of the Global South through partnerships with member countries and institutions. Through continuous activity, robust scientific programs, and successful responses to global needs, ANSO aims to gain global recognition and support.
Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS)
The Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS) was established in February 1953 by the Prime Minister of Pakistan. It holds consultative and advisory status from the Government of Pakistan for scientific development in the country. With 85 Fellows, 34 Foreign Fellows, and 27 Members, the PAS is recognized as a prestigious scientific institution. It provides science-based advice to the government and organizes conferences and lectures on important national topics and emerging scientific areas. Notable recent activities include monthly brainstorming sessions called “Making Pakistan Science Conscious,” which engage senior and young scientists, including postgraduate students and faculty, in collaboration with universities and scientific organizations in the country
Monbukagakusho-MEXT Alumni Association of Pakistan (MAAP)
MAAP is an organization of scholars studying in Japanese institutions with diverse academic backgrounds in natural sciences, engineering & technology, social and medical sciences, public policy & management, etc. These scholars have been awarded scholarships by the MEXT (Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture, Japan: Monbukagakusho) to pursue higher studies in Japan. Founded in March 1996 in Islamabad, MAAP was established by scholars with the moral support of the Embassy of Japan in Islamabad. The members of MAAP have attained advanced degrees (Master’s and PhDs), completed Post-Docs, and gained extensive professional experience in research and academic roles at Japanese universities, research institutions, and prominent industry/consulting firms. Several members currently hold senior positions in academic, R&D institutions, as well as in industry, multinational companies, and government organizations/ministries in Pakistan.
Registration and Abstract Submission Form for International Participants:
Click Here to Download the Form
Registration and Abstract Submission Form for National Participants:
Follow the link for Registration: https://forms.gle/TVTdszS4Z19xHJAK6
Follow the link for Abstract Submission: https://forms.gle/KGQbZ7aisqqfyfoS9
Conference Coordinators
Dr. Muhammad Ali
Prof. Dr. Zabta K. Shinwari
