The COVID-19 pandemic has brought forth numerous challenges, including understanding its global impact, developing effective countermeasures, and improving science communication. Experts discussed the use of data science in understanding the pandemic, challenges in developing an effective vaccine, and the importance of improving science communication and investing in vaccine development. They emphasised the need for targeted lockdowns, social distancing measures, and balanced communication and collaboration within the scientific community to inform the public and influence policy decisions.
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Moderated by:
Angus Lamond, Professor of Biochemistry, University of Dundee
Group Leader at EMBL Heidelberg, 1987-1995
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Guest speakers:
🎙️ Ennio De Gregorio, Vice President, Head of Bacterial Vaccines and Siena Site Head, GSK Italy
Predoctoral Fellow (Hentze Group), Genome Biology at EMBL Heidelberg
🎙️ Ishaan Gupta, Postdoctoral Fellow (Steinmetz Group), Genome Biology at EMBL Heidelberg, 2010-2015
🎙️ Michael Levitt, Professor, Structural Biology, Stanford Medicine
EMBL Scientific Advisory Committee Member, 1983-1988
🎙️ Francis Stewart, Professor, Chair for Genomics at the Biotechnology Centre (BIOTEC), TU Dresden
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Summary:
0:00 - COVID-19 Data Analysis and Communication
• Introduction to Michael Levitt, Nobel Prize winner in chemistry, discussing data models for viral epidemics and disease progression.
• Participants discuss their ability to return to work amidst the ongoing pandemic.
• Angus Lamond suggests EMBL Alumni Association could improve science communication with governments and media.
10:45 - COVID-19 Data Accuracy and Projections
• Michael Levitt discusses the global consistency of COVID-19, with flattening curves observed in China and New Zealand.
• Analysis of early Chinese data showing the epidemic peaking.
• Levitt estimates lower death toll projections for the UK and US based on Diamond Princess data.
15:48 - COVID-19 Mortality Rates and Age Distribution
• Comparison of COVID-19 deaths in Wuhan, China, and Europe using Euro Momo database.
• Mortality rates showing most deaths occur in those over 85, with only 8% in those under 65.
20:23 - COVID-19 Mortality Rates and Herd Immunity
• Michael Levitt discusses the use of Twitter for data retrieval during the pandemic.
• Discussion on the "dark matter of immunology" and the potential for herd immunity.
• Levitt's perspective on virus spread and herd immunity.
25:26 - COVID-19 Transmission, Seasonality, and Prevention Strategies
• Michael Levitt suggests the virus is self-limiting due to unidentified factors.
• Future COVID-19 outbreaks might primarily affect those who escaped the initial wave.
• Explanation of super spreader events and the importance of wearing face masks.
33:06 - COVID-19 Pandemic and Vaccine Development
• Discussion on similarities between COVID-19 and the 1891 Russian flu pandemic.
• Angeli Gregorio discusses lockdown effects and the potential for a second wave.
• Vaccine development timelines and challenges discussed.
38:17 - Vaccine Development Timelines, Challenges, and Future Goals
• Efforts to accelerate vaccine development using knowledge from previous coronaviruses.
• Challenges in demonstrating vaccine efficacy due to low case numbers.
42:46 - Vaccine Development and Potential Effectiveness Against COVID-19
• Discussion on vaccines based on neutralizing antibodies and their potential effectiveness.
• The long-term outlook for COVID-19 vaccine development and herd immunity.
50:55 - COVID-19 Research: Single-Cell Gene Expression and Coagulation Phenotypes
• Experience in peer-to-peer science and the importance of protocol sharing.
• Research on single-cell biology and gene technology development.
• Impact of COVID-19 on different parts of the body, including blood vessels and platelets.
1:01:14 - Addressing Global Challenges: Pandemic Response and Biodiversity Loss
• Discussion on the pandemic's impact on the scientific community.
1:05:50 - COVID-19 Pandemic, Lockdown Strategies, and Their Effects on Death Rates
• Michael Levitt and Francis Stewart discuss the global response to COVID-19.
• Debate on the effectiveness of lockdowns and mask-wearing.
• Economic implications of lockdowns and potential alternative strategies.
1:14:09 - The COVID-19 Pandemic, Leadership, and Media Responsibility
• Concerns about future pandemics and the need for preparedness.
• Role of machine learning and AI in addressing global challenges.
• Criticism of media coverage and the importance of merit-based political appointments.
1:20:26 - Effective Communication During the COVID-19 Pandemic
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• Learn more about the series at www.embl.org/about/info/alumn...
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• Recorded on Friday, 5 June 2020