The goals of DC-THERA

• To create a progressive integration of its partners, and a durable structuring of the field of DC immunobiology
• To translate scientific discoveries into DC-based immunotherapies
• To contribute to long term policy making for the future, both within Europe and beyond

Central to DC-THERA is the excellence of its Consortium of partners. Initially the Network integrated 32 groups of scientists, clinicians and SMEs, led by internationally recognised experts in their field. As the network progressed we incorporated 39 groups within Europe as Associated Members of the network, with specific funding provided to those groups that come forward to contribute to the network aims. The JPA has been revised as the network consolidates an understanding of the collective expertise of these partners and build upon their existing resources.

Underpinning the Consortium is a flexible, pro-active and responsive Management Structure. This is responsible for identifying Strategic Funding Priorities to enable the implementation of the JPA, and puts in place the necessary infrastructure to support it.  We are developing a comprehensive Communications Strategy based on conventional approaches and IT-based systems. The latter will include development of a knowledge management system that will integrate databases and other information to provide a central resource for the network and for Europe as a whole.

We implemented a number of very successful initiatives to forge cohesion  and integration in the field: 3 Graduate Schools, 14 collaborative PhD studentships, 6 Visiting Scholarships, 8 workshops, several cluster meetings and the consolidation of 5 research priorities that provide a focus and forum for participation and inclusion. We are pleased to report an increasing engagement  of Associated Partners, including a specific strategic focus to include groups from New and Candidate Member States.