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John Tregoning

This course explores the different types of vaccine available. This is a useful framework for understanding the scientific understanding that went into vaccine development. It also gives a perspective of how innovation (e.g. fundamental virology, molecular biology) work in a translational medicine context.

On successful completion of the course, learners will be able to:

1. Identify features of different vaccine platforms

2. Demonstrate an understanding of the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines

Read more

This course explores the different types of vaccine available. This is a useful framework for understanding the scientific understanding that went into vaccine development. It also gives a perspective of how innovation (e.g. fundamental virology, molecular biology) work in a translational medicine context.

On successful completion of the course, learners will be able to:

1. Identify features of different vaccine platforms

2. Demonstrate an understanding of the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines

3. Recognise how different platforms may provide protection against different pathogens.

This is an intermediate series of courses intended for both clinical and non-clinical scientists who want to update their skills for work in clinical, academic, and pharmaceutical/bioscience industries, and is developed and delivered by experts working on viruses and novel vaccines.

To be successful in this series of courses, you should have basic knowledge in biology, genetics, microbiology or related fields.

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What's inside

Syllabus

The first vaccines
First, we will look at the very first vaccines and how they shaped the future of the field. This shows how vaccine development closely follows developments in other scientific fields. The early history of microbiology and vaccinology are closely tied. The founders of one field often worked in another – for example Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch. Their approaches centred on the whole pathogen. Early vaccines were made with an understanding of infection biology, but not so much about the immune response to these pathogens. We will focus in on the range of methods used to develop vaccines, many of which are still used in vaccine development today.
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Tiny bits of bacteria: using proteins and sugars as vaccines
Here we will look at protein and sugar-based vaccines. We will start by looking at how these vaccines provide protection. We will then investigate how novel biotechnology techniques have helped in the development of new vaccines, before looking at how sugars can be targeted and the impact this has had. Finally, we will explore how advances in immunological understanding are helping to shape the next generation of vaccines.
Living vaccines
Here we will explore how instead of targeting individual parts of a pathogen, we can take weaker forms of a pathogen and use it to make a vaccine. We will look at the original vaccines that were developed by this approach, then more broadly at how the immune system provides protection at two sites of infection – the airways and the guts. Finally, we will look at two viral pathogens, polio and influenza, and the past, present and future of vaccines for them.
Pandemic vaccines and fighting Disease X
Finally, we will look at how vaccines can be used to prevent and contain pandemics. We will start with a history of the use of vaccines in pandemics and the special requirements. We will then look at two of the new platforms that were successful during the COVID-19 pandemic, RNA and viral vectors.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for both clinical and non-clinical scientists seeking updated skills for the clinical, academic, or pharmaceutical/bioscience industries

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Types of Vaccine with these activities:
Review of Virology
Refresh your understanding of virology to strengthen your foundation for understanding vaccine development.
Browse courses on Virology
Show steps
  • Review your notes or textbooks on virology
  • Focus on topics such as virus structure, replication, and pathogenesis
  • Complete practice questions to test your knowledge
Introduction to Vaccine Development
Gain a foundational understanding of the principles and processes involved in vaccine development.
Browse courses on Vaccine Development
Show steps
  • Watch a series of online tutorials on vaccine development
  • Take notes on the key concepts covered
  • Complete the accompanying quizzes to test your understanding
Review of Fundamental Immunology
Develop a deeper understanding of the basic concepts of immunology, which will provide a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of vaccine development.
Show steps
  • Read chapters 1-5
  • Summarize key concepts in your own words
  • Discuss the material with a classmate or mentor
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Vaccine Development Timeline
Enhance your understanding of the historical milestones and advancements in vaccine development.
Browse courses on Vaccine Development
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  • Research the key events and milestones in vaccine development
  • Create a visual timeline that summarizes your findings
  • Share your timeline with others for feedback
Vaccine Platform Comparison
Develop a comprehensive understanding of the different vaccine platforms and their strengths and limitations.
Browse courses on Vaccines
Show steps
  • Review the different types of vaccine platforms
  • Complete a table comparing their characteristics
  • Analyze case studies to see how platform choice impacts vaccine effectiveness
Vaccine Research Hub
Stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in vaccine research and development.
Browse courses on Vaccines
Show steps
  • Compile a list of reputable sources for vaccine research
  • Regularly review these sources for new articles and studies
  • Share your findings with others through a blog or social media
Vaccine Advocacy
Contribute to the promotion of vaccine awareness and acceptance within your community.
Browse courses on Vaccines
Show steps
  • Join a local or national vaccine advocacy organization
  • Participate in community outreach events
  • Educate others about the importance of vaccines
Vaccine Development Simulator
Apply your knowledge of vaccine development to design and evaluate a vaccine for a specific pathogen.
Browse courses on Vaccine Development
Show steps
  • Choose a pathogen and research its characteristics
  • Select a vaccine platform and design a vaccine candidate
  • Conduct virtual experiments to test the efficacy and safety of your vaccine
  • Present your findings to a panel of experts

Career center

Learners who complete Types of Vaccine will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Microbiologist
Microbiologists study microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They investigate how these organisms cause disease and develop new ways to prevent and treat infections. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which would be essential knowledge for a Microbiologist. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which would be helpful for understanding the latest trends in microbiology research.
Vaccine Researcher
Vaccine Researchers design, develop, and test vaccines to prevent and treat diseases. They study the immune system and how it responds to different pathogens. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which would be essential knowledge for a Vaccine Researcher. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which would be helpful for understanding the latest trends in vaccine research.
Virologist
Virologists study viruses and how they cause disease. They develop new ways to prevent and treat viral infections. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which would be essential knowledge for a Virologist. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which would be helpful for understanding the latest trends in virology research.
Immunologist
Immunologists study the immune system and how it protects the body from infection. They investigate how the immune system recognizes and responds to different pathogens, and develop new ways to prevent and treat diseases. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which would be essential knowledge for an Immunologist. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which would be helpful for understanding the latest trends in immunology research.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists study the distribution and patterns of health events and diseases in populations. They investigate the causes of disease outbreaks and develop strategies to prevent and control them. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which would be essential knowledge for an Epidemiologist. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which would be helpful for understanding the latest trends in epidemiology research.
Public Health Physician
Public Health Physicians work to protect and improve the health of communities. They develop and implement public health programs, and investigate and control disease outbreaks. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which would be essential knowledge for a Public Health Physician. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which would be helpful for understanding the latest trends in public health research.
Pharmaceutical Scientist
Pharmaceutical Scientists work in the pharmaceutical industry to develop and test new drugs and vaccines. They investigate the properties of drugs and vaccines, and how they interact with the body. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which would be essential knowledge for a Pharmaceutical Scientist. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which would be helpful for understanding the latest trends in pharmaceutical research.
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineers design and develop medical devices and technologies. They work with doctors and scientists to create new ways to diagnose and treat diseases. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which would be essential knowledge for a Biomedical Engineer. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which would be helpful for understanding the latest trends in biomedical engineering research.
Science Writer
Science Writers communicate complex scientific information to the public. They write articles, books, and other materials that explain scientific discoveries and their implications for society. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which would be essential knowledge for a Science Writer. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which would be helpful for understanding the latest trends in science writing.
Patent Attorney
Patent Attorneys help inventors protect their intellectual property. They draft and file patents, and represent clients in patent infringement lawsuits. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which would be essential knowledge for a Patent Attorney. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which would be helpful for understanding the latest trends in patent law.
Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare Consultants help healthcare organizations improve their efficiency and effectiveness. They provide advice on a variety of topics, including strategic planning, financial management, and marketing. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which may be helpful for a Healthcare Consultant. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which may be helpful for understanding the latest trends in healthcare.
Medical Sales Representative
Medical Sales Representatives sell medical products and services to doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which may be helpful for a Medical Sales Representative. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which may be helpful for understanding the latest trends in medical sales.
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analysts develop and evaluate policies that affect the health of the public. They work with government agencies, insurance companies, and other organizations to create policies that improve access to healthcare, reduce costs, and promote healthy behaviors. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which may be helpful for a Health Policy Analyst. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which may be helpful for understanding the latest trends in health policy.
Science Teacher
Science Teachers teach science to students in schools and universities. They develop lesson plans, conduct experiments, and assess student learning. This course may provide a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which may be helpful for a Science Teacher. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which may be helpful for understanding the latest trends in science education.
Clinical Research Coordinator
Clinical Research Coordinators manage clinical trials. They recruit and enroll participants, collect data, and ensure that the trial is conducted according to protocol. This course provides a strong foundation in the different types of vaccines available, which may be helpful for a Clinical Research Coordinator. The course also covers the role of microbiological and technological advances in the development of vaccines, which may be helpful for understanding the latest trends in clinical research.

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Types of Vaccine.
This classic textbook is the definitive clinical reference on vaccinology. The most ambitious revision yet, this seventh edition has been meticulously updated to include emerging vaccines, nonvaccine prevention strategies, and the latest clinical trials.
A must-have book for anyone interested in vaccinology and public health, it provides up-to-date information on vaccine analysis, standards, and quality control. It provides practical guidance on all aspects of vaccine development and evaluation.
Explores how the immune system and pathogens co-evolve, how pathogen evolution has shaped immune responses, and how our understanding of these processes has led to better vaccines and therapies.
Provides an in-depth understanding of the evolution of microbial pathogens. It covers the genetic and ecological factors that drive the emergence and spread of new pathogens, and the implications for public health.
A comprehensive textbook that provides a broad overview of microbiology. It covers all aspects of microbiology, from basic principles to the latest advances in the field, and provides a solid foundation for understanding the role of microbes in health and disease.
A serial publication that provides a comprehensive review of the latest advances in virology. It covers all aspects of virology, from basic research to clinical applications, and provides a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians.
A peer-reviewed journal that publishes original research in all areas of virology. It is one of the leading journals in the field, and it provides a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians.

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