At the IUIS 2025 Congress in Vienna, 31 early-career scientists from low- and middle-income countries were supported through IUIS travel grants, enabling them to attend and actively contribute to the global gathering. Representing 12 countries all around the world, these recipients embody the IUIS vision of Immunology without borders. Their participation not only enriched the scientific discussions but also underscored the importance of creating opportunities for researchers everywhere to engage, share, and collaborate across continents.
It was a true honor for me to participate in IUIS 2025 in Vienna, both as a Travel Grant awardee and as an oral presenter. This experience was deeply meaningful for my career and inspiring on a personal level, and I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity.
B.F.P., Technical Training Researcher, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
This year’s travel grants were made possible thanks to the generous support of the American Association of Immunologists (AAI), UKRI Medical Research Council, Prof. Rudolf Valenta, and Prof. Wilfried Ellmeier. Their commitment reflects a shared vision of strengthening global immunology by empowering promising researchers from low- and middle-income countries. The impact of such investment extends far beyond a single congress, building capacity, networks, and collaborations that fuel scientific discovery for years to come. The voices of the recipients themselves tell the story best.
Beyond the scientific knowledge, the Congress strengthened my confidence as a researcher from Low-middle income countries (LMIC) and highlighted the importance of contributing to the global immunology community. Opportunities like this are essential for scientists for LMIC, as they help us to build networks, refine our skills, and envision a clearer path for our future contributions.
V.B. MD, Researcher, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
Many described the experience as transformative, boosting confidence, opening doors to international collaborations, and inspiring new career pathways. From presenting research on the global stage to forming connections that may lead to future joint projects, the travel grant program is not just a ticket to a congress, but a catalyst for lasting scientific impact. IUIS warmly thanks its supporters and encourages continued investment in the next generation of immunologists, who will drive innovation and advance human health worldwide, truly advancing Immunology without borders.
Attending the congress also allowed me to learn about the latest findings on the interactions between the central nervous system and the immune system, as well as their crosstalk with the gut microbiota.
L.P. M, PhD, Researcher, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBt), UNAM,Academia de Ciencias de Morelos, A.C, Morelos, México