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Special Topic: “Learn about animal behavior for fun and applications” given by Prof. Liang- Chou Hsia (October 8, 2024) at IAVT

On October 8, 2024, Prof. Liang-Chou Hsia delivered an engaging seminar at IAVT titled “Learn about Animal Behavior for Fun and Applications.” The session focused on the fascinating aspects of animal behavior and its practical applications in various fields.

Prof. Hsia shared insights into how understanding animal behavior can enhance interactions between humans and animals, benefiting areas such as agriculture, conservation, and pet care. He emphasized the importance of observing and interpreting animal behaviors to improve welfare and management practices.

Students were encouraged to explore the fun side of learning about animal behavior while also considering its implications for real-world applications. The seminar attracted students eager to deepen their knowledge of this intriguing subject, highlighting the relevance of animal behavior studies in today’s society.

From April 28 to May 2, 2025, the International Degree Program in Animal Vaccine Technology (IAVT) successfully held a specialized lecture series titled “Advanced Avian Vaccine Development”, featuring guest speakers Dr. Oishi Eiji, Representative Director, and Dr. Chia-Chi Liu from Vaxxinova Japan K.K.

The five-day event provided IAVT students with valuable insights into the principles and practices of veterinary vaccine development, with a particular focus on avian species. The lectures began with an overview of avian diseases and the structure of the global poultry industry, highlighting the importance of vaccine innovation in disease prevention and food security. The speakers then delved into various vaccine types, including live attenuated and vector vaccines, explaining their mechanisms, advantages in inducing strong immune responses, and strategic use in preventing major poultry diseases. They further explored the characteristics and practical applications of killed and subunit vaccines, which offer high safety profiles and targeted immunity but require careful formulation and adjuvant support to achieve full efficacy. Emphasis was also placed on key formulation components such as adjuvants, stabilizers, and other excipients, which play a critical role in enhancing immune response, ensuring vaccine stability, and extending shelf life. The discussion extended into the industrial perspective, outlining the process of veterinary vaccine development in the pharmaceutical sector—from early-stage research and antigen design, through preclinical evaluation and regulatory approval, to large-scale production and distribution. Throughout the sessions, students gained a comprehensive view of the technical, scientific, and commercial considerations involved in bringing effective animal vaccines to market. The lecture series concluded with student presentations and an engaging discussion session, providing a platform for participants to apply their knowledge and exchange ideas directly with the visiting experts.