VALID8-Pia-Steigler

Dr Pia Steigler is a Principal Investigator at the vaccine manufacturing company Afrigen Biologics and Vaccines, and an immunologist specialising in TB vaccine development. In this milestone VALID8 interview celebrating the 1,000th VALIDATE member, Pia reflects on her personal journey into vaccinology and the role of community in science.

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

I am an immunologist with expertise in TB vaccine development.

2 – What drew you to studying vaccines?

My interest in vaccinology stems from a personal experience. I had open pulmonary TB and tuberculoid mastoiditis as a teenager despite receiving BCG, resulting in long-term hearing and breathing disability. This motivated me to develop a more effective TB vaccine that provides durable protection beyond childhood.

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

VALIDATE provides a global research ecosystem for neglected pathogens. Access to peers, senior researchers, mentoring, and the ECDN has been invaluable for confidence, planning, and managing challenging situations.

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

The in-person Annual Meetings are always my favourite moments — you meet collaborators and form lasting friendships.

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

I value the reach of the network most. If I don’t know the right person to help with a challenge, someone in VALIDATE certainly will.

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

Welcome — make the most of the resources, attend events, and most importantly, connect with people.

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

The rapid growth of the network excites me. More members mean greater diversity, stronger collaboration, and better science.

8 – Describe VALIDATE in one word.

Impactful.