2026 and 2027 Midwest Neglected Infectious Diseases (MNID) Meeting

About This Grant

ABSTRACT The Midwest Neglected Infectious Diseases (MNID) meeting has operated for the last 11 years to bring together researchers, clinicians, and trainees to advance the study of neglected parasitic and fungal pathogens from across 11 states in the Midwest region. The meeting serves as the only venue exclusively dedicated to diseases caused by eukaryotic microbes in the Midwest. MNID offers a platform for sharing research findings through presentations, posters, and discussions, fostering an open exchange of ideas to identify emerging trends in eukaryotic infectious disease, and to identify and strategize in addressing pressing challenges. Involvement of fungal and parasite researchers across a large range of microbial systems encourages the formation of interdisciplinary collaborations by connecting experts from disparate fields and different sets of expertise to develop innovative approaches to address current challenges. MNID also builds networks to support trainees and early career investigators and to support future meetings. Dedicated sessions provide attendees with information on funding opportunities and practical guidance on securing support, particularly for trainees and early-career investigators. Keynote speakers, representing both fungal and parasite biology, are invited each year to convey exciting and cutting-edge research. A Steering Committee composed of investigators at a large number of Midwest institutions works to ensure the sustainability of future meetings by including speaker and attendee variation, with equitable representation of gender, underrepresented groups, and early-career researchers. Feedback from attendees will guide improvements, and demographic data will help assess the impact of initiatives to maximize equitable representation. This specific application seeks to fund two years of programming, first at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2026 and then the University of Iowa in 2027. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, MNID continues to serve as a vital forum for advancing research on neglected infectious diseases and fungal pathogens, addressing global health challenges, and enhancing the scientific experience and sense of belonging for all attendees.