The HIV Netherlands Australia Thailand research collaboration

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to discuss ways in which HIV-NAT’s experience might be instructive for the international research community. Certain principles have guided the development of HIV-NAT; these are: 1. Draw on the resources of pre-existing organizations. 2. Begin with modest goals in order to maximize the likelihood of good initial outcomes. 3. Do not expect questions about sustainability to be fully resolved before the launch. 4. Promote clinical and laboratory practices that meet international research standards. 5. Work closely with government health officials. 6. Expand slowly and carefully. 7. Use accomplishments to leverage greater support from fund providers. 8. Perform studies that are of interest to both local and international constituencies. 9. Be willing to take on a regional leadership role. The first section below describes some of the organization’s achievements. The second and third sections discuss how the nine principles listed above are believed to account for the achievements of HIVNAT. It is hoped that by sharing information about HIV-NAT’s experience we can help to expand the scope and the impact of HIV clinical research that simultaneously promotes the interests of both developed and developing countries. (excerpt)