Regional and international researchers, health care professionals, academics, and development partners gathered at the Mona Campus of the University of the West Indies for the SUNY-UWI Health Research Consortium Hybrid Meeting held from May 14–15, 2026. The conference reinforced growing partnerships between Caribbean and international institutions focused on advancing health research, innovation, climate resilience, and public health solutions.
Hosted in collaboration with the Global Virus Network, the Global Infectious Diseases Research Training Program, the DBJ and MORI BIGEE Program, and several other institutions, the conference brought together experts from Jamaica, the United States, Latin America, and other international partners.

The opening ceremony featured remarks from Dean Joseph Plummer of the Faculty of Medical Sciences at UWI Mona, followed by consortium updates from Professor Gene Morse and Professor John Lindo, who highlighted the continued expansion of collaborative research initiatives between SUNY and UWI.

Over the two-day conference, participants explored a wide range of pressing health and scientific issues impacting the Caribbean and the wider global community. Sessions on chronic diseases examined regional challenges related to diabetes, hypertension, rheumatic heart disease, and chronic kidney disease, while emphasizing the importance of multidisciplinary approaches and international cooperation in addressing non-communicable diseases.
A major focus of the conference centered on innovation in botanical sciences and emerging therapies. Presenters discussed research involving cannabinoids, psychedelics, and pre-clinical pharmacology, highlighting the Caribbean’s growing role in scientific exploration and medicinal research.

Climate science and public health also featured prominently during the conference. Experts examined the relationship between climate change and health outcomes, including discussions on One Health approaches, environmental sustainability, and climate-related scientific innovation. Participants emphasized the importance of regional preparedness and collaborative strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change on vulnerable populations.
The conference further explored pediatric and adolescent health, including autism spectrum disorders, pediatric oncology, and neuro-inflammatory diseases. Researchers and clinicians exchanged findings and best practices aimed at improving healthcare delivery and outcomes for children and adolescents across the region.

Another significant component of the meeting focused on laboratory innovation and public health infrastructure. Discussions addressed global laboratory collaboration, vector surveillance, regulatory compliance, and advancements in laboratory instrumentation and meta-omics research. These sessions highlighted the increasing importance of technology and scientific modernization in strengthening healthcare systems and disease surveillance capabilities.
Conference organizers noted that the consortium continues to create meaningful opportunities for faculty collaboration, student engagement, grant development, and international research partnerships. The event concluded with summary discussions and action planning sessions designed to guide future collaborative projects and research priorities.

The SUNY-UWI Health Research Consortium continues to serve as an important platform for advancing research excellence, fostering innovation, and strengthening international partnerships aimed at improving health outcomes throughout the Caribbean and beyond. For additional information about the conference and future initiatives, interested persons may contact Professor John Lindo at 876-371-6292.