Who We Are

DIDRA is a formal network of researchers at Dalhousie University and the QEII and IWK Health Centres with expertise in the area of infectious disease. The members share a common interest in host-pathogen research (research in the biology of microorganisms, their interactions with the host, and disease prevention, through vaccine development, diagnosis, treatment, or management of infection). Members collaborate not only across disciplines and institutions, but are bridging the gap between basic and applied sciences.

Our Mission

DIDRA will increase the ability of its members and their affiliated institutions to carry out important research and development in the area of host-pathogen interaction. DIDRA provides infrastructure for R & D that will:

• Increase the critical mass of skilled investigators at Dalhousie and its affiliated hospitals in research in the biology of microorganisms, their interaction with the host, and the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, or management of infection.Attract new sources of research and development funding.Encourage the application of scientific knowledge to improvements in health and quality of life
• Support regional economic growth.

Our Philosophy

By sharing ideas, resources, and expertise, researchers at Dalhousie University and its affiliated hospitals amplify their research potential, increase the application of basic scientific findings to patient care, and provide easy access to industry collaborations.

Closer collaboration between public and private sector researchers is increasingly critical to the successful application of research. We are committed to facilitating this interaction, whether by partnerships or contract research.

This project is funded by the Canada/Nova Scotia COOPERATION Agreement on Economic Diversification, which is managed by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Nova Scotia Economic Development.

DIDRA gratefully acknowledges the financial support, provided as unrestricted educational grants by the following companies:

• Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada
• Abbott Laboratories, Limited
• Aventis Pharma Inc.