Using mathematical modelling to predict virus evolution and inform pandemic response
The dynamic interplay between epidemiological research, virus evolution, and mathematical modelling is skilfully described by Dr Colin Russell, Professor of Applied Evolutionary Biology and ESWI Board Member. Flu was Prof. Russell’s first love, however the complex epidemiological pathways of the COVID-19 pandemic sparked his interest in how mathematical modelling informs pandemic response particularly in LMICs.

Nationality: American, British
Position: Professor of Applied Evolutionary Biology, University of Amsterdam Faculty of Medicine
Research field: Virus Evolution
ESWI member since 2019
Colin Russell is a professor at the University of Amsterdam School of Medicine. His research focuses on the evolutionary dynamics of human respiratory viruses and the immune responses that control them. He has worked extensively on the within-and-between host evolution of influenza viruses, influenza virus vaccine composition, and issues related to diagnostic and sequencing resource allocation for virus surveillance. Professor Russell regularly advises a wide variety of international organisations, including WHO, on topics ranging from surveillance to pandemic preparedness, vaccine design, and test-to-treat programs. Colin is the Chair of the ESWI since 2023 and the Chair of the EU Steering Group on Influenza Vaccination since 2024.
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- Burden of disease - The economic and societal impact of acute respiratory viruses
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- “Flu, COVID and RSV: How to vaccinate?” symposium at Options XI
- Using mathematical modelling to predict virus evolution and inform pandemic response
- ESWI Summit 2022: Pandemic Preparedness, Where Science and Policy Meet