Veterinary School joins “Blastocystis under One Health” event in Singapore
13 July 2023
Clinical Assistant Professor Daphne Mavrides represented the Veterinary School at the European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) Action event, focused on Blastocystis, which took place at the National University of Singapore.
COST implements research and innovation funded programmes known as ‘Actions’. These Actions assemble scientists and innovators from all over the world and facilitate collaborative activities, which encompass scientific missions, training schools, and communication activities. These activities pave the way for researchers to meet, share ideas, and tackle complex issues. Consequently, they help advance research in specific fields, foster the expansion of professional research networks, and enhance the career prospects of participating researchers.
Dr Mavrides is part of the “Blastocystis under One Health” Action, a programme focused on collaborative research on the gut microbe Blastocystis. The programme includes 119 members and five working research groups. The event was held at the National University of Singapore, featuring morning lectures and discussions, followed by hands-on practical sessions in the afternoon. During the event Dr Mavrides presented her research work undertaken with the UNIC Veterinary School on the lower gut microbiome of cattle in Cyprus and its association with zoonotic microorganisms, such as Blastocystis.
This initiative was significant within the One Health framework as it allowed scientists worldwide, who are studying Blastocystis in animals, humans, and the environment, to share their expertise and push research and innovation forward on this underresearched topic.
In addition to her research contributions, Dr Mavrides serves as the sole representative of Cyprus on the Management Committee of the Action. This committee is entrusted with overseeing the Action’s implementation, selecting crucial research topics, establishing Working Groups, and making vital administrative decisions.
COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) is a funding agency for research and innovation networks. Our Actions help connect research initiatives across Europe and enable scientists to grow their ideas by sharing them with their peers. This boosts their research, career and innovation.