NIAID, which supports the world's largest portfolio of clinical research in HIV/AIDS prevention, vaccine and treatment research and development, is seeking applications from US and overseas research institutions seeking to become trial units in its revamped HIV/AIDS Clinical Trials Networks.

The solicitation of applicants is designed to increase the efficiency, accountability and integration of NIAID's clinical research networks, and enhance their capacity to effectively conduct vital clinical research, especially in resource-limited settings.

Four pre-application meetings devoted to a comprehensive overview of submission requirements will take place at the following venues in the US and abroad:
- Bethesda, Maryland, US (from 7 to 8 March)
- Miami, Florida, US (from 17 to 18 March)
- Johannesburg, South Africa (from 31 March to 1 April)
- Bangkok, Thailand (from 20 to 21 April)

Please direct questions regarding the call for applications to:
[email protected]

Information on the locations, logistics and other details of the pre-application meetings can be obtained at: www.niaid.nih.gov

This conference, at the Misty Hills Hotel and Conference Centre outside Johannesburg, is the first to focus on the issues of providing comprehensive HIV and AIDS care and treatment in South Africa.

It will provide an update on comprehensive care for people living with HIV and AIDS, including scientific advances and programme implementation.

The topics will cover all aspects of AIDS care, from early treatment to palliative care and psychosocial support, and will give doctors, senior nurses, and managers of AIDS programmes and AIDS service organisations the information they need to develop their care strategies.

Made possible by funding from the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, the conference is expected to attract expert South African speakers.

For more information go to:
www.phru.co.za

Or contact the organiser:
Gmur and Associates
Email: [email protected]
Tel: (011) 487 2761
Fax: (011) 487-1529

Helen Struthers
Programme Director
Perinatal HIV Research Unit
PO Box 114
Diepkloof
1864
South Africa
+27 (11) 989-9700
+27 (83) 308-6662