Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health threat, causing over one million deaths annually and disproportionately affecting the Mediterranean basin, a climate change hotspot and key “sentinel zone” for emerging resistance. MEDI-PHAROS addresses this challenge by establishing a high-level training ecosystem based on a One Health approach. Bringing together Aix-Marseille University, IHU Méditerranée Infection and a network of partners across 12 Euro-Mediterranean countries, the programme fosters strong international, interdisciplinary and intersectoral (Triple-i) collaboration and mobility.
This 60-month MSCA COFUND programme will train 10 excellent postdoctoral researchers to bridge the gap between research, innovation and policy, addressing the biological, environmental and socio-economic drivers of AMR. Through interdisciplinary projects, fellows will combine genomics, clinical microbiology, environmental sciences and socio-economic analysis to better understand transmission dynamics across the human–animal–environment interface. Intersectoral secondments in industry and healthcare settings will promote the development of innovative diagnostic and therapeutic solutions, while dedicated training in global health diplomacy, innovation and technology transfer will strengthen their capacity to engage with policy and international stakeholders.
Aligned with major international initiatives, the programme acts as a concrete implementation of the EU One Health Action Plan against AMR and the Council Recommendation on stepping up EU actions on One Health. MEDI-PHAROS will enhance research capacity, innovation and policy integration in the Mediterranean region. By training a new generation of interdisciplinary leaders, the programme will contribute to sustainable, coordinated and high-impact responses to AMR, strengthening Europe’s role in global health research and innovation.
