The EU-funded MOBILISE project recently hosted an intensive Training of Trainers (ToT) program in Hamburg, Germany, aimed at equipping experts with the skills to operate the MOBILISE mobile laboratory. Over two weeks, participants received hands-on and theoretical training on setting up the mobile lab, handling high-risk biological samples, and conducting diagnostic tests.
Week 1: Mastering Lab Setup & Safety Procedures
The first week focused on preparing the MOBILISE lab for real-world deployment. Participants learned how to safely set up the lab, manage airflow systems, and use personal protective equipment (PPE) according to high biosafety standards.
Key activities included:
- Setting up the stationary mobile lab and arranging equipment
- Dressing appropriately for different biosafety levels
- Receiving and preparing human, animal, and environmental samples for testing
- Operating the glovebox for safe handling of infectious samples
- Using the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for tracking and reporting samples
- Properly disposing of hazardous waste to maintain lab safety
The week also included a presentation by BNITM (Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine) on how mobile labs function in various emergency scenarios. Participants gained critical knowledge in PPE usage, emergency responses, and ensuring biological safety in challenging environments.
Week 2: Advanced Diagnostics & Lab Operations
Building on the first week’s foundation, the second week focused on advanced diagnostic techniques and laboratory decommissioning.
Participants developed expertise in:
- Conducting Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) for West Nile Virus (WNV) and Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF)
- Performing PCR diagnostic workflows using specialized platforms
- Processing One Health Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
- Safely packing down and decommissioning the MOBILISE laboratory for transport
Additionally, trainees were introduced to entomological surveillance, learning how to identify and pool mosquitoes and ticks for disease tracking.
Looking Ahead
By the end of the training, participants had gained essential skills to deploy and operate the MOBILISE laboratory in outbreak scenarios. This program plays a crucial role in strengthening Europe’s preparedness and response to emerging infectious diseases by ensuring that trained professionals can rapidly set up and conduct high-quality diagnostics in the field. The success of this ToT program marks a significant step in fostering resilience through mobile laboratory solutions and cross-sectoral One Health collaboration.
