A delegation from the CAS-TWAS Centre of Excellence for Emerging Infectious Diseases (CEEID), coordinated by its Secretary-General, Dr. Likui Wang, conducted an academic visit from January 6 to 9, 2026, to two leading biotechnology institutions in the United Arab Emirates: the UAE BIOTECH Research Center and the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory (CVRL). The visit aimed to strengthen international cooperation in animal disease research, vaccine development, and biotechnological innovation.

    During the visit, TWAS Fellow Professor George Gao delivered a keynote presentation on cutting-edge advances in vaccine and therapeutic research for animal diseases. His talk highlighted the critical role of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing emerging infectious threats and underscored the importance of global collaboration in public health and veterinary sciences.

    At the UAE BIOTECH Research Center, the delegation engaged in in-depth discussions with Professor Hwang Woo-Suk, a world-renowned expert in animal cloning and genetic engineering. Both sides explored potential joint research initiatives, particularly in the areas of early diagnosis and vaccine development for brucellosis and other zoonotic diseases. Professor Hwang emphasized the complementary strengths of UAE BIOTECH and the Institute of Microbiology, CAS, in animal disease detection, pathogen isolation, and molecular characterization.

    Subsequently, the team visited the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory, where they met with Professor Ulrich Wernery, a leading authority in veterinary microbiology and camel disease research. Discussions centered on the epidemiology of camel-derived pathogens such as MERS-CoV, as well as strategies for enhancing collaborative efforts in disease surveillance, diagnostic technology, and joint prevention and control. Professor Wernery expressed strong interest in deepening ties with CAS research teams, especially through the platform of CEEID.

    The visit concluded with mutual commitments to advance scientific cooperation through joint projects, researcher exchanges, and shared technological resources. Both UAE institutions welcomed the prospect of hosting CAS researchers for further academic exchanges and expressed interest in visiting the Institute of Microbiology, CAS, in the near future to expand dialogue and solidify partnerships.

Professor George F. Gao remarked, "This visit marks a significant step forward in bridging scientific expertise between China and the UAE. By leveraging the strengths of CEEID and our UAE partners, we can accelerate progress in combating zoonotic diseases and contribute to global health security."

    The CAS-TWAS Centre of Excellence for Emerging Infectious Diseases continues to serve as a vital platform for international collaboration, fostering innovation and knowledge exchange in the fight against infectious diseases worldwide.