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Conducting a study with us

Why and how to collaborate with VAC4EU

VAC4EU provides a collaborative framework for conducting high-quality and robust real-world evidence (RWE) studies to inform vaccine benefits and risks, as well as for implementing and adopting cutting-edge methodology in RWE generation. Vaccine manufacturers, regulators, public health institutes, patient groups, ministries, European Commission representatives, RWE generation networks and research bodies are invited to submit requests for collaborations.

From request to results

With a strong track record including multiple successfully completed projects and studies and a standardised pipeline for RWE generation, VAC4EU ensures efficient, distributed, tailored, and high-quality collaboration across its extensive expert network.

1

Request received

Once the request for proposal is received, VAC4EU conducts a first contact meeting with the study requester to identify, align, and pre-assess the specific needs of the submitted request and the confidential conditions to discuss it.

2

Exploratory assessment

Followed by an exploratory assessment to align on the study’s scope and structure, assess feasibility, and identify a strategy for addressing the request.

3

Tailored team assembled

VAC4EU then coordinates a transparent process to assemble a tailored team of experts able to best address the study request. This process involves identifying interested member organisations in each of the study roles (e.g., Lead Scientific Centres, programmers and statisticians, Lead Operating Centres, Data Expert & Access Partners (DEAPs), etc.), while the VAC4EU Secretariat facilitates contracting and onboarding.

Why VAC4EU?

Work with our established network

VAC4EU builds on over a decade of experience in RWE generation, originating from the IMI-ADVANCE project. With a proven track record in vaccine research, VAC4EU conducts or participates in studies on a wide range of topics spanning vaccine safety and effectiveness, vaccine coverage, disease natural history, and more. Generally, studies are carried out through both secondary use of electronic healthcare data routinely collected and tailored primary data collections. VAC4EU provides the research and quality framework, training and education for the study team, a toolbox and access to an independent Scientific Advisory Board.

See full list of projects and studies

Collaborate with a diverse network of experts

VAC4EU studies leverage a distributed network of experts and DEAPs across Europe as well as strategic alliance with key networks and initiatives in the global ecosystem. Our network includes 28 member organisations providing a variety of expertise and resources including real-world data (RWD), pharmacoepidemiology, methodological expertise, project management and study coordination, AI-powered methodologies, and beyond.

Discover our members

Benefit from our consolidated study pipeline

VAC4EU applies a consolidated, multi-step process involving specialised tools and expert collaboration to turn RWD into robust RWE for supporting public health and regulatory decision-making. Furthermore, VAC4EU has established a robust Quality Management System designed to support the consistent and compliant execution of RWE studies. These frameworks ensure that all research activities are conducted in a federated manner, harmonised across members and conducted in line with regulatory standards and cutting-edge science, promoting reliability, transparency, and scientific integrity throughout the study lifecycle.

Learn more about our study pipeline

Utilise diverse data sources

Within the VAC4EU network, 14 dedicated Data Experts and Access Partners (DEAPs) bring specialised capabilities in working with diverse healthcare data sources, including electronic health records (EHRs), claims databases, and registries.

Explore our data sources

Our workflow

VAC4EU adopts a structured process to efficiently manage incoming collaboration requests. This approach enables requestors to promptly receive a tailored pre-feasibility assessment of their proposal and the VAC4EU team able to address it.

Step 1

Query and alignment

When a study request is submitted, VAC4EU initiates a collaborative alignment phase between the Executive Board, the Secretariat, and the requesting organisation. This stage ensures a shared understanding of the study, lays the foundation for a tailored pre-feasibility proposal and efficient mobilisation of the appropriate study team.

Key elements include

  • Clarifying study's research questions and operational objectives
  • Identifying all relevant data sources
  • Outlining the study team's organisational structure to support the research
  • Discussing timelines, regulatory requirements, and expected deliverables

How to request a study through VAC4EU

If you have a query, kindly request it through the Business Development team at bd@vac4eu.org.

Alternatively, you may fill out this contact form.

Request a study