【Group photo with international students】

Professor Shayan Sharif, Vice President of the University of Guelph (Canada), visited the Institute for Vaccine Research and Development (IVReD) at Hokkaido University on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. He was accompanied by Mr. Hamza Fahamoé, First Secretary and Trade Commissioner (Science and Technology, Research Security, and Innovation) at the Embassy of Canada in Japan, and Mr. Shinichi Tsujio, Trade Commissioner at the Canadian Government Trade Office in Sapporo. The visit was hosted by Associate Professor Shiro Murata of the Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University.

Shayan Sharif, Vice-President, is a researcher specialized in veterinary medicine and immunology, and oversees the areas of research and innovation at the university. His work has focused on immune responses and infectious disease control in livestock and poultry, as well as vaccine research, spanning basic science, applied research, industry, and academia collaboration. He is currently promoting the strengthening of international collaborative research based on a research strategy that emphasizes One Health and food security.

Professor Hirofumi Sawa, Director of IVReD, introduced the institute and guided a tour of the research facilities. They exchanged perspectives on IVReD’s research framework and major initiatives. In addition, lively discussions were held on opportunities for future collaboration and researcher exchange. The visit served as a meaningful step toward strengthening future cooperation.

【From left: Vice-President Shayan Sharif, Mr. Hamza Fahamoé, and Mr. Shinichi Tsujio】

【Vice-President Shayan Sharif asking questions to a Canadian international student】

【Discussion and exchange of opinions with international students】