PDN Director Aitana Neves has joined the WHO International Pathogen Surveillance Network (IPSN) as a member of its Community of Practice in Genomics Data. Her appointment, along with that of PDN Deputy Director Guy Cochrane earlier, reflects high-level recognition of PDN’s expertise and value – and strengthens PDN’s contribution to international best practices for pathogen data access and sharing.
“The IPSN Community of Practice on Genomics Data is an important mechanism to improve global pathogen data practices and sharing, which will help advance PDN’s mission.”
Aitana Neves
Director, Centre for Pathogen Bioinformatics
Associate Director, Clinical Bioinformatics group, SIB (Switzerland)
IPSN was launched in 2023 to ensure all countries have equitable access to pathogen genomic sequencing and analytics capacity as part of their public health surveillance system. Its 100 members include governmental, non-governmental, academic, policy, industry and philanthropic organizations, spanning One Health sectors and with expertise in genomics, data technologies, and surveillance systems.
Harmonizing international practices for pathogen surveillance data
Communities of Practice are at the heart of IPSN’s work, enabling exchange between partners to solve common challenges. The Community of Practice on Genomics Data is the first to be established. It brings together over 50 participants from around the world, to collaborate on effective use of pathogen genomic surveillance analytics. This includes:
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- harmonizing global data standards and protocols to support interoperability of genomics data and analytics
- ensuring genomics data tools are fit for purpose, as part of work to elaborate infrastructure requirements underpinning local to global surveillance
- fostering mechanisms for equitable data and benefits sharing.