Background The development and validation of novel vaccines requires specific expertise in many subjects. Scientists often require specialized training when they enter vaccinology from an adjacent field or advance a vaccine candidate to the next stage of the pipeline. The limited availability of this training represents a key gap in the field. This issue affects academic labs and small biotech companies which lack in-house knowledge regarding specific areas. We have found that access to training opportunities is particularly needed by groups in sub-Saharan Africa, and is critical to strengthening local capacities.

Methods From May 2017 through April 2023, the Horizon 2020 program TRANSVAC2 worked to address these gaps by offering free training courses in addition to scientific services.

Results 14 modules were developed pertaining to various vaccinology subjects, and 31 separate trainings sessions were attended by over 400 trainees from 44 countries—including 19 different low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Selected applicants were offered seats in the courses with no registration fees and free accommodation.

Conclusion 5 years of hosting the TRANSVAC courses has provided several lessons on the needs of professionals in both the academic and industrial vaccine fields. The course organizers are now transitioning from the European Commission-supported framework to a new operational model. Through this model, we will continue offering established, highly demanded courses to the vaccine community and introduce new trainings, including the development of accessible eLearning modules. This process aims to build upon the experiences and reputation of the program to form a new, sustainable platform for vaccine courses.