Eric Weaver, professor in the School of Biological Sciences, has been awarded a nearly $650,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture as one of just 37 recipients nationwide to develop next-generation vaccines aimed at preventing swine influenza pandemics.
His project focuses on creating a broadly protective, longer-lasting vaccine for pigs using advanced computational modeling to target multiple strains of influenza A — viruses that pose a serious threat because pigs can act as “mixing vessels” for strains from birds, humans, and other animals. By improving vaccine effectiveness and durability, the research aims to reduce the risk of dangerous new strains emerging and spreading to people, while also protecting animal health and minimizing economic losses in the pork industry.
