Advancing a Bold Model to Combat Pandemic and Biological Threats

Recognizing that our traditional models to pandemic preparedness have failed to imagine the risk and broad societal impact of biological threats, McMaster University sought support to establish a new way forward.

Working with interdisciplinary project teams, Shift Health examined the vulnerabilities COVID-19 has exposed and amplified to envision new models of solutions-driven research and innovation partnerships. We facilitated alignment around a disruptive interdisciplinary, intersectoral model for the Global Nexus for Pandemic and Biological Threats, with a focus on developing, piloting and scaling integrated solutions; connecting to the frontlines and decision-makers; and engaging with the public and communities to maximize the relevance of our work.

With Shift Health’s support, McMaster University established the Global Nexus and is now building the teams and programs that will accelerate solutions to prevent, prepare for and protect against pandemics and biological threats.