VALID8-Samantha-Sampson

Dr Samantha Sampson is the Director of the VALIDATE Network and a tuberculosis researcher whose work focuses on host–pathogen interactions. In this special VALID8 interview marking 1,000 VALIDATE members, Samantha reflects on the growth and impact of the network.

1 – What do you do / what do you research?

I work on tuberculosis, and my team studies how host–pathogen interactions influence disease progression.

2 – What drew you to studying vaccines?

Vaccines are the most cost-effective interventions we have for combating infectious diseases. Vaccine research spans immunology, microbiology, social sciences, epidemiology, and more — which keeps it endlessly interesting

3 – How has VALIDATE shaped your work or career and research so far?

VALIDATE has supported research conducted by my team and provided several opportunities for career development for team members.

4 – What’s your favourite memory or moment from your time with VALIDATE?

At my first VALIDATE Annual Meeting in 2019, I was struck by how open and welcoming the community was. That meeting also helped spark a new collaboration.

5 – What do you value most about being connected to 1,000 researchers across 80+ countries?

Being part of this global network gives us access to a fantastic resource of diverse expertise, and with our shared focus on key pathogen groups, there is much we can learn from one another.

6 – What advice would you give to the 1,000th VALIDATE member joining today?

Be engaged and make use of the many opportunities for personal and professional growth the network offers.

7 – What excites you most about the future of VALIDATE?

As the network matures, I’m excited about listening even more closely to our global membership and supporting their success.

8 – Describe VALIDATE in one word.

Empowering.