VALID8

Paula Niewold is a postdoctoral researcher at Leiden University Medical Centre in the Infectious Diseases research group. As part of this special VALID8 series celebrating 1,000 VALIDATE members, Paula reflects on her research into immune protection and susceptibility in tuberculosis.

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

My research focuses on better understanding the immune events that determine whether individuals are protected against or susceptible to tuberculosis.

2 – What drew you to studying vaccines?

I was drawn to vaccine research by the possibility of contributing to the prevention of infectious diseases, particularly those prevalent in countries where medical access is limited and vaccines would make a huge impact.

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

VALIDATE has allowed me to greatly expand my global network with people at similar career stages, while also supporting my career development through access to resources, including funding.

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

My favourite moment was the first time I got to meet my Early Career Development Network (ECDN) cohort in person.

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

The global perspective on diseases and vaccines, and their impact on communities.

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

My advice would be to make the most of this opportunity to connect with the global research community.

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

VALIDATE's unique contribution to the research landscape through its focus on international connections.

8 – Describe VALIDATE in one word.

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