Advancing UK sexually transmitted infection modelling: new directions for methods, data and community collaboration

The UCL/UKHSA Health Protection Research Unit in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections (BBSTI HPRU), in collaboration with the JUNIPER partnership, will host a one-day, in-person workshop on Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) modelling on 24th March 2026 at Goodenough College, London.

The UK is experiencing rising diagnoses of bacterial STIs alongside emerging challenges such as mpox and antimicrobial-resistant gonorrhoea. Mathematical and network-based modelling of sexual partnerships plays a critical role in understanding STI transmission, evaluating new prevention technologies, and informing public health policy. However, these models face challenges relating to data integration, appropriate levels of complexity, and meaningful engagement with communities most affected by STIs.

This workshop will bring together STI modellers, researchers and organisations involved in collecting and analysing sexual behaviour and surveillance data, and perspectives from communities disproportionately affected by STIs, including gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) and sex workers. The aim is to foster exchange between modelling, data, and lived experience, and to identify priorities for future research and response.

Across themed sessions, the workshop will:

• Explore emerging and future STI modelling frameworks to address epidemiological challenges.

• Strengthen collaboration between data collectors and modellers, drawing on sources such as Natsal, UKHSA surveillance, community surveys and genomic data.

• Explore how community engagement can improve model assumptions, interpretation and avoid stigmatising language or framing.

The workshop will combine short presentations and facilitated small-group discussions, concluding with a collaborative discussion on next steps and future directions.

More details are available here: https://bbsti.hpru.nihr.ac.uk/opportunities/advancing-uk-sexually-transmitted-infection-modelling