KZN Researchers Shine Bright

UKZN College of Health Sciences Annual Research Symposium

text: Paul Harris photo: Paul Harris

The College of Health Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal hosted its Annual Research Symposium at the K-RITH Tower Building, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, on 25 and 26 August. The event brought together leading scientists, students, and early-career researchers to share cutting-edge research, foster collaboration, and celebrate innovation.

KRISP was proud to be represented by four of our upand-coming researchers, who delivered outstanding oral presentations showcasing the depth and diversity of our work in genomics and public health:

Shirelle Naidoo – Low frequency integrase drug resistance mutations in individuals experiencing virological failure while on dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy.

Thembelihle Tombo – Evaluation of a single assay for the surveillance of multiple viral pathogens using Next Generation Sequencing.

Nqobile Mthembu – Adapting the Illumina COVIDSeq for Whole Genome Sequencing of other respiratory viruses in multiple workflows and a single rapid workflow.

Bertha Baye – Molecular Characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis of Dengue Fever Viruses in Côte d’Ivoire.

These presentations highlighted pressing health challenges – from HIV drug resistance to the surveillance of viral pathogens, respiratory virus sequencing, and the molecular epidemiology of dengue. Each researcher demonstrated not only strong scientific expertise but also a commitment to advancing public health through genomics.

The symposium also provided young researchers with the opportunity to network with peers and mentors while competing for prestigious prizes, including funding to present at national and international conferences. Beyond accolades, the experience was invaluable in building confidence and strengthening capacity in Africa’s next generation of scientists.

At KRISP, we are committed to nurturing emerging researchers and providing platforms where their voices, discoveries, and innovations can be shared. We are incredibly proud of Shirelle, Thembelihle, Nqobile, and Bertha for their contributions, and we look forward to seeing their research continue to inspire and impact the scientific community in South Africa and beyond.