7th ISRV School of Respiratory Viruses

A 5-day immersive, in-person School for those working at the forefront of respiratory virus research, clinical care, and public health

Respiratory viruses remain one of the most significant and evolving challenges in global health. Addressing them requires professionals who can work across disciplines, interpret complex evidence, and translate knowledge into real-world impact.

The ISRV Schools of Respiratory Viruses are designed to support the next generation of professionals – those in the earlier stages of their careers who are developing expertise across research, clinical practice, public health, and policy to address respiratory virus challenges.

This year, delivered in partnership with The University of Hong Kong (HKU), the 7th ISRV School of Respiratory Viruses brings together an international faculty and a global cohort of participants for five days of immersive, in-person learning, with accommodation included to support a fully engaged cohort experience.

An immersive learning experience

ISRV Schools are not conferences. They are structured, immersive programs designed to create space for focused learning, discussion, and collaboration.

Over five days, participants engage in:

Expert-led lectures across core disciplines
Interactive workshops and small-group sessions
Poster presentations and peer discussion
Mentoring and career development conversations
Informal networking with faculty and participants

The format is intentionally designed to bring participants and faculty together in a shared environment, enabling deeper learning and meaningful connection.

Designed for a multidisciplinary community

The School brings together individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, including:

Laboratory and basic science
Clinical medicine
Public health and epidemiology
Policy and implementation

Participants typically have an existing foundation in their field and are looking to deepen their expertise, broaden their perspective, and connect their work to the wider respiratory virus landscape. This also includes final-year Master’s students with a relevant background who are intending to pursue a career in respiratory viruses.

ISRV Schools are particularly focused on supporting those in the earlier stages of their careers, while recognising that career pathways are not always linear and that experience levels vary.

What the program covers

The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive, cross-disciplinary understanding of respiratory viruses – from fundamental science through to implementation and policy.

Across the week, sessions will explore:

Global burden and control of respiratory viruses
Virology, immunology, and pathogenesis
Vaccines, antivirals, and population immunity
Virus evolution, transmission, and modelling
Zoonotic threats and One Health approaches
Public health response and policy translation
Emerging tools, including AI and behavioural science

Alongside this, participants will take part in workshops, discussions, and applied sessions that support the development of practical skills and critical thinking. The full program can be viewed here.

Learning beyond the classroom

A core strength of the ISRV School is the opportunity to learn directly from and alongside others.

Participants will:

Present their work and receive feedback
Engage in structured and informal discussions with faculty
Build connections with peers from across regions and disciplines
Take part in mentoring and career-focused sessions

Many alumni highlight these relationships and conversations as one of the most valuable aspects of the experience.

A global perspective, grounded in place

Hong Kong has played a central role in the global understanding of infectious diseases – from the 1894 plague to the SARS outbreak in 2003 – and continues to be a leading centre for respiratory virus research.

Hosting the 2026 School in Hong Kong reflects this context, with a program that includes regional perspectives on influenza and coronaviruses, as well as a field-based learning experience exploring the history of public health and infectious disease in Hong Kong.

Accessibility and support

ISRV is committed to ensuring the School is accessible to a diverse, international cohort.

Tiered registration fees are available, with reduced fees for delegates from Low- and Low-Middle Income Countries (LMICs)
Scholarships are available, including travel support
Accommodation is included in the registration fee for participants
Applications are assessed with consideration for different career paths and contexts

Join the next cohort

The 7th ISRV School of Respiratory Viruses in Hong Kong offers a unique opportunity to step back from day-to-day work, deepen your understanding, and connect with a global community working to address one of the most pressing areas in public health.

Apply now
View the full program
Learn more about ISRV Schools

The 7th ISRV School of Respiratory Viruses is delivered in collaboration with: