Research

Vaccines and antibody immunity

Our research focuses on designing new and improved vaccines against blood-stage malaria and understanding the molecular mechanisms behind vaccine-induced protection.

We also isolate human monoclonal antibodies from volunteers taking part in malaria and Ebola vaccine trials. By studying how these antibodies respond to key antigens, we aim to inform the development of new preventative and therapeutic treatments.

Understanding Malaria vaccines

Learn how malaria infects the body, how vaccines work and why more effective vaccines are needed.

Malaria vaccine basics

Our research programmes

We study two of the major malaria parasites affecting humans and investigate the antibody responses produced by vaccination. These connected areas of research inform the design of the next generation of vaccines.

P. falciparum vaccines

Developing vaccines against the deadliest malaria

Developing vaccines against the deadliest malaria parasite, with a particular focus on preventing its invasion of red blood cells.

P. falciparum vaccines

P. vivax vaccines

Designing vaccines against the world’s most widespread malaria parasite and investigating ways to prevent recurring infection.

P. vivax vaccines

Antibody responses to vaccination

Studying antibodies from vaccinated volunteers to understand immunity and inform new vaccines and antibody treatments.

Human antibody response to vaccination

Clinical trials

Our work extends from laboratory research and vaccine design into clinical evaluation, allowing promising vaccine candidates to be studied in volunteers and malaria-affected populations.

Explore our clinical programme testing vaccine candidates for P. falciparum and P. vivax in the UK and malaria-endemic countries.

Clinical trials

Partnerships and collaboration

Vaccine development depends on collaboration across disciplines, institutions and countries. We work with academic, clinical and industry partners to accelerate research and increase its impact.