The BRC, in partnership with Science North, hosted a two-day knowledge exchange to explore innovative ways of engaging the public on immunology and immune-based innovations.
Thirty-five participants from across Canada — including biomedical and social scientists, public health experts, science communicators, artists, and museum curators — came together to set learning objectives, identify creative engagement pathways, and share ideas for making immunology more accessible and engaging to diverse audiences.
This was also an opportunity for them to connect with experts from other industries with whom they did not typically engage.
Participants, and 17 additional immunology experts from across Canada, highlighted four priority themes:
- Addressing misconceptions about “natural” immunity
- Explaining the immune system as an interconnected network in dialogue
- Showcasing advances in immune-based innovations
- Demystifying the human and social dimensions of the therapeutic pipeline
The process also surfaced critical public understanding gaps — particularly around persistent myths, translational pathways, and the human dimensions of research. These insights are now helping to shape creative public education initiatives, including the development of a comic book, card game, and other accessible tools designed to spark curiosity and learning.
