University of Liverpool researchers are part of a new UK network focused on reducing helminth parasite diseases, also known as worm infections, in the UK and worldwide.
Helminth (worm) parasites negatively impact the health of billions of people and animals worldwide.
Funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), the three-year research network, Helminth Eco-Health Hub UK, will unite UK based scientists across various disciplines, expertise, and career stages to drive this innovative research.
Joining the network is Dr Hannah Rose Vineer, an ecologist from the University's Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences. Dr Vineer’s team will work alongside researchers from Queen’s University Belfast, Aberystwyth University, Moredun Institute, University of Glasgow and Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine.
Dr Vineer said: "As well as leveraging UK expertise to address the key challenges associated with helminth infections, we’ve taken a strong 'lift as you climb' approach, with plenty of opportunities for early career researchers. I benefited from similar programmes as a postdoc, so I’m really proud to now be part of something that could be a career catalyst for young researchers and help develop our next generation of leaders."
Network Lead, Professor Geoffrey Gobert, Queen’s University Belfast commented: "Chronic illness in humans and reductions in agricultural output are central traits of helminth disease, and the sustainable control of helminth infections is threatened by escalating drug resistance, inadequate diagnostic methods, climate change, and a lack of new therapies. So, tackling these challenges requires urgent, coordinated, interdisciplinary team-based research efforts."
The Helminth Eco-Health Hub UK will launch in early 2026 and will strengthen helminth research within the UK and with overseas collaborators. Over three years, a range of activities will support key research challenges through network building, funding and resource support, research delivery and impact, and more.