CoMeCT Internal Meeting in Oslo: Championing the Perspectives of Clinical Research Scientists

The CoMeCT consortium recently held its first face-to-face meeting in Oslo, gathering key members and stakeholders to advance the project’s mission under the theme, “Championing the Perspectives of Clinical Research Scientists.” This collaborative event, held on November 13-14 2024, aimed to strengthen our shared vision and strategic direction for the project, while also clarifying CoMeCT’s role within the EU’s preparedness landscape. Additionally, discussions focused on enhancing CoMeCT’s ability to respond effectively in times of crisis, ensuring robust support for clinical research when it’s needed most.

Over the two days, members engaged in four sessions designed to address key areas critical to the CoMeCT project’s objectives. On the first day, discussions focused on the current progress and vision for the project, as well as CoMeCT’s positioning within the European preparedness landscape. These sessions provided a platform for members to align on the project’s direction, with an emphasis on fostering resilience and coordination across borders.

Day two was dedicated to exploring CoMeCT’s capacity to respond effectively during crises and offering a forward-looking perspective on the clinical research landscape in Europe. Through these discussions, members evaluated strategies to improve crisis response mechanisms and considered future challenges and opportunities for advancing preparedness in clinical research.

Throughout the meeting, CoMeCT consortium members brought invaluable insights and collaborative spirit, contributing to a shared roadmap that will guide the project’s ongoing work in supporting clinical research across Europe.

The CoMeCT consortium expresses its gratitude to all members for their active participation and dedication to this mission. This meeting not only strengthened our current approach but also laid the groundwork for continued growth and impact. We look forward to building on these insights as we prepare for future challenges and opportunities within the evolving landscape of clinical research.

About CoMeCT

The CoMeCT project aims to enhance Europe's clinical research preparedness and response to infectious disease outbreaks with epidemic potential. CoMeCT is funded by the European Union (Horizon Europe programme) under grant agreement n° 101136531, and will run for three years (2023-2026). During this time period, we will work to ensure sustainability of our activities. This project involves 7 partners (INSERM, Ecraid, ECRIN, NIPH, PENTA, UNIVR, and University of Cologne) and is coordinated by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH).