PARC is organising an in-person training school in immunotoxicology, providing a comprehensive introduction to the mechanisms through which chemicals can interfere with the immune system and how these effects are addressed in chemical risk assessment. The training will take place in Paris, France, from 23 to 25 November 2026, under the scientific coordination of the University of Paris-Saclay ↗ (France), the University of Rennes ↗ (France) and University of Milan ↗ (Italy).

Particular attention will be given to current regulatory approaches and the opportunities and challenges associated with New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) in immunotoxicology.

What to expect:

• An introduction to the fundamentals of immunology relevant to immunotoxicology and chemical risk assessment 

• Exploration of major manifestations of immunotoxicity, including immunosuppression, immunostimulation, skin sensitisation, and respiratory allergy 

• Insights into current regulatory requirements and approaches for integrating immunotoxicological evidence into chemical hazard and risk assessment 

• An overview of NAMs in immunotoxicology, including in vitro, in silico, and mechanistic approaches, illustrated through selected case studies 

• Opportunities for participants to present and discuss their own research with experts and peers, receiving feedback on experimental approaches, data interpretation, and possible future research directions  

Who should attend:

The training is intended for PhD students and researchers, both within and outside PARC, who are interested in immunotoxicology and its application to chemical risk assessment. The course is designed at a beginner level, and a background in immunology, cellular biology, or toxicology is recommended.

Practical details:

Participation is free of charge, but attendees are responsible for covering their own travel, accommodation, and other expenses. Coffee breaks and lunches will be provided by the organisers.

Practical details:

Applications will be accepted in two stages:

• Mobility Grant application deadline (14 October 2026): Participants wishing to attend the course and apply for a PARC Training Course Mobility Grant* must submit their course application by this date and indicate their interest in applying for the grant. 
• Final course application deadline (31 October 2026): Applications to participate in the training course will remain open until this date. However, applicants submitting their course application after 14 October and up to 31 October 2026 will no longer be eligible to apply for a Training Course Mobility Grant for this course.

For more information on the PARC Training Course Mobility Grants, please visit the dedicated PARC website page, available here.

How to apply:

Submit your application here by 31 October 2026.

For additional information about the training and practical arrangements, please click here.

Why you should not miss this opportunity:

This training offers an opportunity to build a broad understanding of immunotoxicology. By combining fundamental concepts with regulatory perspectives, NAMs, case studies, and interactive discussions, participants will gain insight into how immunotoxicological evidence is generated, critically interpreted, and used in decision-making. The opportunity to present their own research and receive feedback from experts and peers will also help participants refine their experimental strategies, interpretation of results, and future research directions.