Molecular Virology Meeting 2026 Advances Virology Research

Molecular Virology Meeting highlights research and preparedness

The Molecular Virology Meeting concluded on 18 September 2026 at BRIC–National Institute of Immunology (BRIC–NII), New Delhi. The ninth edition brought together around 200 clinicians, researchers and students from across India to discuss viral biology, research translation and preparedness.

Started in 2009, the annual meeting has developed into a forum for India’s virology community. Researchers discuss viral infection, host–virus interactions, pathogenesis, immunity, evolution, epidemiology, clinical virology and translational research.

BRIC–NII hosted MVM 2026 with support from the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) and the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB). The two-day programme featured research on influenza, dengue, chikungunya, HIV, hepatitis E, West Nile virus, coronaviruses and respiratory syncytial virus.

The meeting opened with a keynote by Dr. Naveen Kumar, Director of ICMR–National Institute of Virology, Pune. His address focused on host factors that can block or support viral activity.

A major session examined Translational Virology: Vaccines & Therapeutics. Discussions covered antiviral therapeutics, antibody discovery, theranostics, viral evolution and epidemiology.

The programme also examined India’s virology innovation and preparedness ecosystem. A panel on “Future of Virology Research and its Contribution in BioE3 Policy: Advancing Towards Viksit Bharat” discussed platform technologies, funding for translation, academia–industry–government partnerships, scale-up and disease surveillance.

MVM 2026 included seven scientific sessions, spotlight talks, poster presentations, the panel discussion, an award ceremony and a concluding session. The meeting highlighted the need to connect fundamental virology research with vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics and public-health preparedness.