CERI Welcoming Guide July 2025

Hey CERI-er,

WELCOME

CERI Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation

Contents to the CERI 03 Welcome group!

04 Message from the Director Prof. Tulio de Oliveira

05 Vision and Mission 06 Values 07

CERI’s Research Focus Areas

Support Units at 08 Research CERI

09 Meet the teams

Management Grants and Contracts Scientific Support Laboratory Bioinformatics Data Science WEMA Immunology SACEMA - Population Health and Modelling African Microbiome Group Strategic Advisors

22 Who are we within SU?

started at CERI-SU 23 Getting Checklist Access and Accounts Equipment and Workspace Lab and Safety Training Resources and Support Admin and HR

24 Essentials

Health & Safety IT Services Transport & Parking

25 Student Resources Student Support Academic Support CERI Meetings

26 Staff Essentials

Employee Wellness HR Policies & Procedures All things HR

27 What we expect from you 28 Frequently Asked Questions 29 CERI Locations 31 Contact us

WELCOME TO the CERI group!

At CERI, we are a passionate community of scientists, students, and innovators working together to tackle the world’s biggest public health challenges.

From genomic surveillance, immunology, community engagement to data-driven discovery, our work is collaborative, impactful, and fastpaced.

Your contribution matters, whether you’re here to study, for research, or to support the research. This booklet will help you find your feet, connect with others, and maximise your time at CERI. Let’s get started!

This guide is bought to you by: Maambele Khosa, Shéylle Green & Talhah Loonat

Photo: The CERI team at STIAS SACEMA garden, Captured Roni Alves

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MESSAGE From the Director Prof. Tulio de Oliveira

Welcome to the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University. It is a real pleasure to have you join our vibrant and growing community of scientists, students, and professionals who are passionate about using cutting-edge science to make a meaningful impact on public health in Africa and globally.

At CERI, we are driven by a shared commitment to excellence, collaboration, and innovation. Whether you are here as a researcher, student, technician, or support staff member, your work matters—and it contributes to a broader mission of understanding, preventing, and responding to epidemics through advanced genomics, data science, and public health partnerships.

You are joining a place where ideas are valued, diversity is celebrated, and the pursuit of knowledge is grounded in purpose. We encourage you to ask bold questions, collaborate across disciplines, and engage with the communities our work is meant to serve. I hope your time at CERI will be intellectually enriching, professionally rewarding, and personally fulfilling. We are excited to learn from you, grow with you, and support you on your journey.

Welcome to the team—and welcome to the future of public health innovation.

Prof. Tulio de Oliveira Director, CERI

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VISION CERI envisions a healthier Africa—empowered to respond swiftly to epidemics through pathogen surveillance, and driven by data science innovation to advance biomedical discovery for improved diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of human diseases

MISSION We aim to be at the forefront of epidemic response and innovation in Africa by supporting the continent in controlling its own epidemics and pandemics through: High-throughput genomic surveillance to detect major pathogens responsible for epidemics and identify emerging threats, including those from zoonotic transmissions.

Collaborative platforms with key stakeholders to support characterisation of pathogens and advanced modelling for vaccine design and evaluation—tailored to local transmissibility, variants, and virulence.

Advanced training programmes in genomics, epidemiology, artificial intelligence, population modelling, immunology and bioinformatics, delivered through expanded laboratory infrastructure and partnerships with leading global industry innovators.

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CERI’S

VALUES Innovation We embrace curiosity, creativity, and bold thinking. From new scientific methods to novel technologies, we constantly seek better ways to understand and respond to epidemics. We push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Collaboration We believe breakthroughs happen through connection. We foster open, respectful teamwork across disciplines, institutions, and cultures — working together to solve complex problems that impact public health globally.

Diversity We value the unique perspectives, experiences, and identities of everyone in our community. By creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, we enrich our science and ensure our impact reaches all.

Excellence We hold ourselves to the highest standards of scientific integrity, rigour, and ethics. Whether in the lab, at a desk, or in the field — we are committed to producing work that matters and lasts.

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CERI’s Research Focus Areas CERI focuses on scientific areas that support better detection, understanding, and management of infectious diseases. These areas include genomics, population health and modelling, immunology, microbiome research, and a One Health approach.

Genomics

Population Health & Modelling

Immunology

Microbiome

One Health

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RESEARCH SUPPORT UNITS AT CERI CERI’s Research Support Units provide the support needed to drive impactful research. These include lab management, grants and contracts, bioinformatics, scientific research support, and data science. Together, they ensure smooth lab operations, help secure funding, and deliver the technical and data expertise that powers CERI’s work.

BIOINFORMATICS GRANTS & CONTRACTS

LABORATORY

SCIENTIFIC SUPPORT

DATA SCIENCE

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Meet the Management team CERI’s Management Team oversees strategic direction, operations, and organisational development. They ensure effective coordination across teams and support the institute’s mission through leadership, planning, and resource management.

Prof. Tulio de Oliveira Director

Dr. Cheryl Baxter

Prof. Frank Tanser

Head of Scientific Support and Training

Director: SACEMA

Suzette Grobler Grants and Contracts

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Meet the Grants & Contracts team The Grants and Contracts team manages funding agreements, research contracts, and procurement processes to ensure compliance, accountability, and smooth operational support for CERI’s projects and partnerships.

Suzette Grobler

Gwynneth Louw

Gugu Mkhize

Head of Grants and Contracts

Research Administrator

Grants Manager

Mr. D Rhoda

Queen Shezi

Financal Manager

Grants Office Intern

Zama Khathi-Majyambere

Zethu Luthuli

Zuretha Els

Senior Office Co-ordinater (HR)

Project Coordinnator

Administrator

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Meet the Scientific Support team

CERI focuses on scientific areas that support better detection, understanding, and management of infectious diseases.

These areas include genomics, population health and modelling, immunology, microbiome research, and a One Health approach.

Dr. Cheryl Baxter

Dr. Moise Majyambere

Head of Scientific Support and Training

Senior Research Support Officer

Zethu Luthuli

Dr. Yeshnee Naidoo

Maambele Khosa

Student Support Coordinnator

Lab Training Coordinator

Marketing, Media, and Communication

Yajna Ramphal

Dr. Bethlehem Tefera

Research Project Manager

Research Fellow

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Meet the Lab team CERI’s Laboratory Team conducts sample processing, sequencing, and quality control to generate high-quality data for research and surveillance. They play a key role in supporting timely and accurate genomic sequencing.

Dr. Lavanya Singh Head of Laboratory and QA

Stepfan De Villiers

Tebogo Ramakutoane

Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technician

Lucious Chabuka PhD Fellow & Lab Manager

Kerwin Leideman Nondumiso Zakwe

PhD Fellow & Medical Biological Scientist

Sample Clerk

Velda Wentzel

Yusasha Pillay

Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technician

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Science is REAL

Love is LOVE

All lives MATTER

Feminism is for EVERYONE

Work Life Balance 13

Meet the Bioinformatics team

CERI’s Bioinformatics Team supports the analysis and interpretation of complex genomic data. They develop pipelines, manage large datasets, and generate insights that guide research on pathogen evolution, outbreak tracking, and public health decision-making.

Dr. Eduan Wilkinson Head of Bioinformatics

Dr. Marije Hofstra

Dr Emilyn Costa Conceicao

Post-Doctoral Fellow

Post-Doctoral Fellow

Dr. Vagner Fonseca Post-Doctoral Fellow

Harriet Ngombe

Isaac E Omara

PhD Research Fellow

PhD Fellow

Akhil Maharaj

Derek Tshiabuila

MSc candidate

PhD Research Fellow

Dr. TJ Sanko

Sheylle Green

Post-Doctoral Fellow

Bioinformatics intern

Talhah Loonat Bioinformatics Intern

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Meet the Data Science team

The Data Science Team is responsible for extracting insights and value from different datasets to support research and dection making. They develop pipelines, manage large datasets, and generate insights that guide research on pathogen evolution, outbreak tracking, and public health decision-making.

Dr. Houriiyah Tegally Head of Data Science

Danilo de Castro Silva MSc Candidate

Dr. Monika Moir Senior Researcher

Daniel Van Zyl PhD Fellow

Dr. Gaspary Mwanyika

Graeme Dor PhD Fellow

Post-Doctoral Fellow

Jennica Poongavanan PhD Fellow

Carlin Foka Takamgno PhD Fellow

Desalew Moges Post-Doctoral Fellow

Dr. Joicymara Xavier

Haingo Andry

Post-Doctoral Fellow

PhD Fellow

Nikita Sitharam PhD Fellow

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The WEMA team aims to catalyse, produce, and externally fund impactful research. The team’s research development program focuses on promoting trans-disciplinary research and impact

Meet the WEMA team

Dr. Astrid Treffry-Goatley Project Manager

Nicala Zeeman

Dr. Chanelle Molopo

Administrative Officer -Public Squares

Postdoctoral Fellow

Ameera Crew Intern - Public Squares

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The Immunology research group engages in forefront immunological research to drive African-led innovation, developing biomedical strategies for the prevention, treatment, and cure of debilitating infections of local and global significance

Prof Lenine Liebenberg Chief Researcher: Immunology

New Fellow PhD Research Fellow

Meet the Immunology Research team

Harriet Ngombe PhD Research Fellow

New Fellow PhD Research Fellow

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The SACEMA (South African Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis) team focuses on using mathematical and statistical models to understand and address public health challenges, particularly in South Africa and Africa. They apply this expertise to diseases like HIV, tuberculosis, and emerging infections, as well as non-communicable diseases.

Meet the SACEMAPopulation Health and Modelling team

Dr. Frank Tanser

Lynnemore Scheepers

Cari van Schalkwyk

Director of SACEMA

Deputy Director: Operations

Senior Researcher

Faikah Bruce

Yuri Munsamy

Larisse Bolton

Training Coordinator

Science Officer

Researcher

Shadé Horn

Beryl Beeka

Fellowship Manager

Office Administrator

Zinhle Mthombothi

Jeremy Bingham

Junior Researcher

Junior Researcher

Shaan Daniels General Assistant

Lauren Brown Junior Researcher

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Meet the Population Health and Modelling SACEMA team

The SACEMA (South African Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis) team focuses on using mathematical and statistical models to understand and address public health challenges, particularly in South Africa and Africa. They apply this expertise to diseases like HIV, tuberculosis, and emerging infections, as well as non-communicable diseases.

Nada Abdelatif PhD Student

Wilfred Otambo Dr. Margot Otto

Postdoctoral Fellow

Postdoctoral Fellow

Ntombifuthi Blose

Tammara Poa Siang Koh

PhD Student

PhD Student

Lactatia Motsuku PhD Student

Georgia Roussos PhD Student

Tumelo Sereo

Emmanuel Owusu Ahenkan

PhD Student

PhD Student

Comfort Sunday Jones

Olivier Adjagba

MSc Student

MSc Student

Kimberly Malloch MSc Student

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The African Microbiome Group focuses on exploring the role of microbes in African ecosystems. The group works to highlight the importance of the microbiome (the community of microbes living in and around us) and its relevance to health, agriculture, and conservation on the African continent. The AMG is based in the microbiology department of SU and collaborates closely with the CERI team

Meet the African Microbiome Group

Prof. Thulani Makhalanyane Proffesor: Microbiology

The AMG African Microbiome Group

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The OG’s The Strategic Advisors at ECR provide high-level guidance and foresight to support the centre’s long-term vision and impact. Drawing on deep expertise across science, policy, innovation, and public health, the team works closely with leadership to shape strategy, identify opportunities, and navigate complex challenges in epidemic preparedness and response.

Prof. Wim de Villiers Chief Strategy Officer

Meet the Strategic advisors team

Dr. Richard Gordon Networking and Fundraising Consultant

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WHO ARE WE WITHIN SU? CERI is a trans-disciplinary research centre of Stellenbosch University, under the School for Data Science and Computational Thinking, affiliated with the Faculty of Science and Faculty of Medicine and Health Science.

Rector and Vice-Chancellor

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies)

Faculty of Science

School for Data Science and Computational Thinking

Faculty of Medicine and Health Science

Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI)

Prof. Burtram C Fielding

Prof. Kanshukan Rajaratnam

Prof. Elmi Muller

Dean: Faculty of Science

Director: School for Data Science and Computational Thinking

Dean: Faculty of Medicine and Health Science

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Getting started at CERI-SU Checklist

🔑 Access & Accounts

Collect staff/student access card Set up the SU Microsoft email account Register for Eduroam Wi-Fi and network access

💻 Equipment & Workspace

Get assigned desk/workspace and/or lab station Request laptop/desktop if needed Ensure access to lab and data systems

🧪 Lab & Safety Training

Complete lab safety orientation (if applicable) Review biosafety and data confidentiality policies Attend CERI induction session

📚 Resources & Support

Meet with your supervisor or PI Browse CERI and SU Resources Explore research units and ongoing projects

🧾 Admin & HR

Submit HR paperwork Subscribe to ‘the gem’ Get included in team meetings & mailing lists

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Health and Safety Campus Health On-campus clinic offering primary healthcare, health education, and wellness services to all registered students.

Campus Security Maintains a safe campus environment through 24/7 patrols, emergency response, and crime prevention measures.

IT Services

Essentials

Support for university-related tech needs including Wi-Fi access, printing, software, and system troubleshooting, etc Web Mail Your official student email account, used for all university communication and announcements.

Password Management Tools and help for managing your university login credentials, including resetting forgotten passwords.

Parking and Transport Services and guidelines for student vehicle access, parking permits, and alternative transport options on campus.

Online Parking Applications Convenient online system to apply for student parking permits each academic year.

Shuttle Service Safe, free transport for students around and between campus locations at set times.

Matie Bike Rentals Affordable bicycle rental service promoting green travel and easy mobility around campus.

Scan me to find out more!

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Student Counselling Free and confidential psychological support to help students cope with personal, academic, or emotional challenges.

Disability Unit Provides tailored support and reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for students with disabilities.

Equality Unit Promotes a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment by addressing discrimination, harassment, and inequality.

Academic Support Postgraduate (PG) Skills Workshops Skill development sessions focused on enhancing research, communication, and career readiness for postgraduate students.

Writing Lab Offers individual consultations and group workshops to help students improve their academic writing across all disciplines.

Library Provides access to physical and digital academic resources, research tools, and study spaces, with staff on hand to assist.

Not to be missed!

CERI Update Meetings Every alternate Monday.

Postgraduate Support Meetings Every alternate Monday Technical Workshops Every Tuesday Monthly Seminars Every last Wednesday of the month

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Student Resources

Student Support

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Staff Essentials

Employee Wellness

HR Policies & Procedures

All things HR

Call or email +27 21 808 2753 sun-e-HR@sun.ac.za

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WHAT WE

EXPECT F R O M Y O U COLLABORATION We’re committed to each other, to the work, and to the people we serve. Always seek and offer help whenever help is needed.

PROFESSIONALISM Act with integrity, accountability, and respect — Office hours are 8:00-16:30

GIVE IT YOUR BEST Whether you're solving problems in code, collecting samples in the field, or managing logistics behind the scenes — show up with energy, care, and commitment.

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FAQ What is...

Why is CERI Awesome?

Because we are a diverse group of highly skilllful people conducting impactful research to positively contribute to the fields of epidemiology and genomics

Who is your go-to person

All CERIers...

Where is the best place to eat lunch?

Jack’s Bagels Sweet Beet Spar (get the sushi) Plato for the coffee Always open to more suggestions!

How does CERI celebrate birthdays?

Everyone sings in their home language and we eat cake!

When did CERI start?

July 2021

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CERI Locations Stellenbosch

Tygerberg

CERI Data Science

Remote

8 AM - 4:30 PM

Data Science HQ Van der Byl Rd, Stellenbosch

CERI-SACEMA SACEMA, 19 Jonkershoek Road Stellenbosch

Launchlab CERI-Bio LaunchLab, Hammanshand Rd, Stellenbosch

8 AM - 4:30 PM

8 AM - 4:30 PM

CERI -BMRI/FMHS 8 AM - 4:30 PM @reallygreatsite BMRI, Tygerberg campus, Tygerberg

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CERI Locations Stellenbosch

Tygerberg

Remote

CERI Data Science

Data Science Building

CERI -BMRI/FMHS

@reallygreatsite

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CERI - Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation ceri_news

CERI_news ceri_news @krisp-ceri CERI: Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation

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https://ceri.org.za/the-gem/ 32