volume 8 - issue 5
the gem
LaunchLab CERI BIO
CERI co-creates a biotechnology incubator and accelerator in Africa
Tracing Omicron lineages
Gauteng likely played a key role in the emergence of multiple Omicron lineages
Mosquito-borne virus
Chikungunya outbreak strikes Réunion Island, raising public health concerns read it online
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CERIBIO & Launchlab 10Y
CERI partners with Launchlab at Stellenbosch University to create a biotechnology incubator and accelerator in Africa.
Global Biotech Innovation
People First, Science Forward: Prof Brian Fox, University of Wisconsin-Madison, visite to SA and discussion on the Power of Partnership in Global Biotech Innovation.
Tracing origins of Omicron lineages
Nature Comm paper showing the origins and dispersal patterns of BA.1–BA.5 and BA.2.86. Our findings suggest that Gauteng in South Africa likely played a key role in the emergence and/or amplification of multiple Omicron lineages.
the gem: Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) & South African Centre for Epidemiology and Modelling Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University & KwaZulu-Natal Research, Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP), UKZN, Durban; director: Tulio de Oliveira; editors: Cheryl Baxter, Maambele Khosa ; art director: Victor Hugo Szortyka; graphic designers: Maam bele Khosa, Tulio de Oliveira; websites: https://ceri.org.za/ https://www.krisp.org.za/, https://www.sacema.org/
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Mosquito-borne virus: Chikungunya
News in Science magazine highlights the spread of Chikungunya in the Indian Ocean islands. Tulio de Oliveira notes: “There’s a special concern as summer begins in Europe, where there is greater susceptibility to Chikungunya transmission.”
Science Com & Public Engagement
Public Squares hosted its first lecture of 2025. Titled From Science Communication to Public Engagement: Optimising Benefits, Mitigating Barriers, the lecture was presented by Prof. Marina Joubert.
Autumn graduates
We graduated five students at KRISP, UKZN, from PhDs to MSCs and Honours (Cum Laude), meet our newly fresh graduates!
editorial
We are nearly halfway through the year. A year so dynamic and challenging that it feels more like a decade. It began with the threat of funding cuts to science, which has now become a reality. Just in May, CERI alone lost six NIH grants. Despite these difficulties, we remain committed to doing what South Africa and Africa do best: moving forward with determination and optimism so we can shape our own future.
One way we’re doing this is by launching a biotechnology incubator and accelerator, which we named as LaunchLab CERIBIO. Creating an advanced Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) environment in Stellenbosch designed to support the development of biotech startups. As we open CERIBIO, four companies are already being incubated, providing young scientists with a platform to become entrepreneurs and innovators.
We’re also strengthening our collaborations with academic institutions. This month, we welcomed several international visitors, including Prof. Brian Fox, Head of Biochemistry at the University of Wisconsin-Madison; Prof. Carmen Faso, Co-director of the Multidisciplinary Center for Infectious Diseases (MCID) from the University of Bern in Switzerland; and Prof. Adam Habib, Vice Chancellor of the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in London and former Vice Chancellor of Wits University.
Our work in advancing genomic surveillance continues, with a strong focus on emerging COVID-19 variants and efforts to address the severe Chikungunya outbreak in the Indian Ocean Islands. Our findings have been featured in both Nature and Science journals.
We are also investing in science communication and public engagement through expert seminars and photography workshops for our staff. We’re especially proud to celebrate the graduation of five new students with PhDs, MScs, and Honours degrees (cum laude).
In spite of the challenges, we remain focused in our mission that is; responding to epidemics, building capacity, and fostering innovation. So we can help create the future we envision and deserve.
text: Tulio de Oliveira
Changing the Status Quo
LAUNCHLAB CERI BIO
Creating a biotechnology incubator and accelerator in Africa
text: CERI and LaunchLab photo: CERI Media
On 22 May, we at the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI), together with the LaunchLab, officially launched LaunchLab CERIBIO; a new biotechnology laboratory aimed at supporting biotech startups in South Africa. The occasion also marked a major milestone for LaunchLab, which is proudly celebrating 10 years of empowering innovators and entrepreneurs.
LaunchLab CERIBIO is an extension of the support already provided to entrepreneurs by Stellenbosch University’s business incubator, the LaunchLab. The facility is positioned to help accelerate Africa’s biotechnology sector by turning research into real-world applications. It offers entrepreneurs access to high-quality lab infrastructure and tailored incubation support to commercialise their research.
Biotechnology is uniquely positioned to address pressing African health, food security, and sustainable energy challenges. Of Stellenbosch
University’s current 35 spinout companies, ten are in the biotechnology space. Innovus Technology Transfer Office (TTO) and LaunchLab have successfully incubated five biotech spinouts; Fluorobiotech, Biocode, Phagoflux, Urobo Biotech and Immobazyme. Two key challenges became evident during their incubation: the high costs of materials and the lack of dedicated laboratory infrastructure.
Unlike traditional academic or government-run labs, LaunchLab CERIBIO is designed to overcome these hurdles by providing costeffective, top-tier lab space, cuttingedge equipment, and specialised business support. It’s a strategic investment to grow Africa’s deep tech ecosystem and attract more biotech investment.
“We have an incredible foundation for research at Stellenbosch University and in South Africa, in general. However, we lack biotech laboratory incubators that can convert our world-class science into products,” comments Prof. Tulio de Oliveira, Director of the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI).
Prof. de Oliveira adds: “During the pandemic, we led the world in the discovery of variants and clinical trials, but we were at the back of the queue to access diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines. That is one of the reasons why we are investing in LaunchLab CERIBIO, to position South Africa as a global leader in the production of biotechnology products that save lives and advance livelihoods.”
The commercialisation of deep technologies like biotech holds high impact potential in Africa. But unlike software or fintech, which offer faster returns, deep tech ventures require long-term infrastructure and investment. LaunchLab CERIBIO is a deliberate intervention to shift this dynamic.
Anita Nel, Chief Director of Innovation & Commercialisation (I&C) at SU, founded the original LaunchLab in 2015 and led the establishment of LaunchLab CERIBIO with the vision of fostering collaboration between startups, academia, and industry.
“The LaunchLab CERIBIO coupled with the LaunchLab business incubator facility is the start of what we hope will foster more collaboration in our ecosystem. SU LaunchLab will continue hosting various ecosystem events and programmes in collaboration with Stellenbosch Network and Innovus TTO. These activities are always driving local investor support, and the LaunchLab CERIBIO adds some depth to this community by attracting local and global investors, and stakeholders who are keen to collaborate,” states Nel.
As a key project partner, SU spinout Fluorobiotech led the facility’s renovation, design, and implementation. The Fluorobiotech team will also operate the space under a Service Level Agreement with SU’s I&C Division. Fellow biotech spinouts Biocode and Phagoflux will co-share the lab.
“Biotech is experiencing a surge in South Africa, and LaunchLab CERIBIO is uniquely positioned to accelerate this momentum – empowering biotech startups to transform innovative concepts into impactful, industry-changing realities,” says Dr. Ross the Fluorobiotech team.
Though this new facility marks a significant leap forward, it has limited capacity. The I&C Division is already looking ahead and aims to raise funds for a larger biotech hub. The long-term vision is to scale this model at The Bridge, a smart city development near Stellenbosch, and find collaborative partners to help realise that goal.
In a final comment, Prof. de Oliveira declares, “this is just the beginning, we are already engaged with large funders and investors such as the Mastercard Foundation to help us expand the ecosystem.”
LaunchLab CERIBIO is not only a celebration of a decade of innovation at the LaunchLab; it’s also a bold signal of what’s to come for South African biotech: a future built on world-class research, entrepreneurial ambition, and collaborative infrastructure.
Watch the video of the launch of CERI BIO: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=4OjNfD_iqhQ
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Biotech is experiencing a surge in South Africa, and LaunchLab CERIBIO is uniquely positioned to accelerate this momentum.
Prof. Deresh Ramjugernath, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University, cuts the ribbon at the opening of LaunchLab CERIBIO, joined by Prof. Stan du Plessis, Chief Operating Officer of Stellenbosch University, and Prof. Tulio de Oliveira, Director of CERI at Stellenbosch University and KRISP at UKZN.
Photo:
STELLENBOSCH & WISCONSIN-MADISON
Text: Maambele Khosa
Photo: Madison City
What happens when two institutions, separated by continents but united in purpose, come together to transform science?
According to Professor Brian G. Fox, it begins with people, grows through trust, and thrives on shared curiosity.
Professor Fox, Chair of the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, recently visited Stellenbosch University as part of a deepening partnership between the two institutions. His visit reflects a growing collaboration rooted in a simple yet powerful belief: that science is at its best when it’s collaborative, human-centred, and forward-looking.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Stellenbosch University and UW–Madison outlines joint goals in biotechnology, data science, and global health. But beyond the paperwork, it’s the people who make this partnership work. “When people enjoy working together, when there’s mutual respect and shared values, the science becomes even more meaningful,” said Fox.
Connecting People, Ideas, and Institutions
“I can only be as healthy as the nature next to me,” Fox reflected, capturing the spirit of the One Health approach that guides much of this work.
The partnership between Stellenbosch University and UW–Madison resonates deeply with the One Health philosophy, which recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. “One Health doesn’t solve the problem,” Fox explains. “It puts the right questions on the table—questions no single discipline can answer alone.”
This mindset shapes one of the collaboration’s core focus areas: the establishment of a One Health Program. By bridging sectors and engaging communities, the program aims to tackle global challenges like antimicrobial resistance, emerging diseases, and sustainable agriculture through systems thinking and shared scientific capacity.
Linking Biochemistry and Epidemic Response
With a strong background in enzymology and structural biology, Fox sees exciting intersections between his work and the cutting-edge infectious disease surveillance at Stellenbosch University’s Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI).
“CERI’s response to public health emergencies, like sequencing outbreaks in Malawi, shows the impact of science in motion,” said Fox. “It’s not just about publishing papers; it’s about solving real problems, in real time, across borders.” He believes biochemical approaches could further accelerate such efforts, offering new tools for diagnostics, drug development, and disease response.
Creating Opportunities for the Next Generation
A major focus of the partnership is building capacity through academic exchange. Fox envisions a pipeline of opportunities that embeds students in long-term collaborative projects, allowing them to co-author, co-learn, and co-create.
“Learning to collaborate at an early stage changes how young scientists view the world,” he explained. “They get to be part of something bigger than themselves; something international, interdisciplinary, and impactful.”
On the faculty side, the partnership opens doors for joint research projects, workshops, and co-supervision of graduate students, reinforcing a two-way learning experience between South Africa and the United States.
Turning Science into Solutions
With both CERI, Stellenbosch University and UW–Madison committed to translational research, innovation sits at the heart of this collaboration. But Fox is quick to emphasise that innovation doesn’t begin with funding or infrastructure; it starts with relationships.
“People don’t just give you money because you have an idea. They give you support because you’ve shown that your science matters; because you’ve made the connection between curiosity and community need.”
For Fox, turning an idea into a diagnostic test or a bioengineered product is about reducing complexity to practice: “What does our science do to lead us to make what other people want or need? Science is a systematic way of improving lives. That’s our job.”
As this partnership unfolds, one thing is clear: People First, Science Forward isn’t just a tagline. It’s a philosophy; one that reminds us that the future of biotech, of global health, and of science itself will be shaped not just by knowledge, but by connection, compassion, and collaboration.
Other related stories:
Historic Agreement with Stellenbosch University, UW–Madison’s Global Health Institute and Department of Biochemistry
https://biochem.wisc.edu/2024/09/19/historic-agreement-with-stellenbosch-university-uw-madisons-globalhealth-institute-and-department-of-biochemistry/
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Learning to collaborate
at an early stage changes
how young scientists view the world
- Prof Brian Fox
“” It’s not just about publishing papers; it’s about solving real problems, in real time, across borders
- Prof Brian Fox
PUBLICATION
Tracing the spatial origins and spread of SARSCoV-2 Omicron lineages in South Africa
Gaeme Dor and Colleagues, Nature Communication 2025
text: Graeme Dor et al. 2025 figure: Spread of Omicron main lineages in SA.
Since Nov 2021, five genetically distinct SARS-CoV-2 Omicron lineages (BA.1–BA.5) are believed to have emerged in southern Africa, with four (BA.1, BA.2, BA.4, and BA.5) spreading globally and collectively dominating SARS-CoV-2 diversity. In 2023, BA.2.86, a highly divergent BA.2 lineage that rose to prominence worldwide, was first detected in Israel and Denmark, but the subsequent diversity of South African sequences suggests it too emerged in the region. Using Bayesian phylogeographic inference, we reconstruct the origins and dispersal patterns of BA.1–BA.5 and BA.2.86. Our findings suggest that Gauteng province in South Africa likely played a key role in the emergence and/or amplification of multiple Omicron lineages, though regions with limited sampling may have also contributed. The challenge of precisely tracing these origins highlights the need for broader genomic surveillance across the region to strengthen early detection, track viral evolution, and improve preparedness for future threats.
Results
Validation of global origins of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA lineages
To confirm the global origins and early dispersal patterns of the respective Omicron BA lineages, we mapped the discrete country locations and inferred dispersal events from our ‘mugration’ analysis. Ancestral state reconstruction of the early spread suggested South
Africa as the origin for lineages BA.1, BA.2, BA.3, BA.4, and BA.2.86, while Eswatini, a neighboring country of South Africa, was the inferred origin of BA.5 (Fig. 1). Following their emergence in southern Africa, global dissemination was frequently inferred from high-connectivity regions, particularly parts of Europe and North America.
Despite the respective BA lineages forming phylogenetically distinct clades, phylogeographic inference revealed four of the six (BA.1, BA.2, BA.4, and BA.2.86) are inferred to have originated within Gauteng province before spreading to other regions within South Africa (Fig. 3b). To the east of Gauteng, Mpumalanga province and the country of Eswatini were inferred as the origins of BA.3 and BA.5 respectively. The temporal reconstruction reveals complex spatial patterns of lineage spread following emergence with no uniform trend across the BA lineages, however, early dispersal trends suggest initial expansion from Gauteng.
Overlaying the inferred most recent common ancestor (MRCA) locations and associated 95% HPD regions of all six BA lineages clearly highlights the influence of the northeastern region of South Africa, particularly Gauteng, and its role as both the region of origin and early dispersal point within South Africa (Fig. 4). The displacement of the inferred MRCA locations, as a measure of uncertainty, cluster over a relatively small area given the extent of sampling locations, while the 95% HPD intervals indicate the influence of Gauteng across all lineages.
Conclusions
The consistent and ongoing discovery of new divergent Omicron lineages in southern Africa - the latest being that of the BA.2.87.1 lineage14—implies this region is more likely than any in the world to be the origin of future highly diverged SARS-CoV-2 lineages of global relevance. It is likely an important factor that East and southern Africa is home to approximately half of the people in the world who are currently living with HIV. Uncontrolled HIV infections—approximately 5 million of which occur in East and southern Africa15—are expected to cause a type of immune dysfunction that predisposes individuals to experience persistent SARS-CoV-2 infections. These persistent infections are believed to foster the evolution of highly diverged neutralising antibody resistant variants such as the Beta VOC and Omicron BA lineages16,17,18. Given the potential global consequences of SARS-CoV-2 evolution in the context of unmanaged HIV infections, we strongly recommend renewing world-wide efforts to document and treat as many uncontrolled HIV infections as possible, as well as understand SARS-CoV-2 evolution in other types of immunocompromised conditions.
Read the Full Article: https://www.nature.com/ articles/s41467-025-60081-0
SCIENCE NEWS
Mosquito-borne viral disease sweeping Indian Ocean islands
text:
Excepts from Meredith Wadmanxw photo:
Richard Bouhet/AFP via Getty Images ce here
Twenty years ago, when the painful viral disease chikungunya exploded on the Indian Ocean island of Réunion and sickened hundreds of thousands, doctors longed for a vaccine. Now, the virus is surging again, causing 50,000 confirmed cases and 12 deaths on the island, a French department, and spreading on neighboring islands including Mauritius. This time a vaccine called Ixchiq is readily available. But safety problems have cropped up, and on Wednesday, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) suspended the vaccine’s use in people 65 years and older after two deaths and several serious adverse events.
The outbreak on Réunion may be showing signs of ebbing. But need for the vaccine may not, as the virus is expected to spread beyond the Indian Ocean, imported with travelers returning from that region.
Tulio de Oliveira, director of the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch
University, notes, “There’s a special concern when summer is starting in Europe and there is higher susceptibility for chikungunya transmission.”
Caused by a virus transmitted by Aedes aegypti and A. albopictus mosquitoes, chikungunya causes fever, excruciating joint pain, headache, joint swelling, and rash. People usually recover within a week, but some develop heart and brain inflammation, and severe pain can last for months and even years. (The word means “disease that bends up the joints” in Kimakonde, an East African language.) It is endemic in parts of Latin America and Asia, and across central Africa in a belt that extends to the Indian Ocean islands, where warm, wet conditions are especially hospitable to the mosquitoes that transmit the virus.
The disease exploded on Réunion in 2005–06 after the virus acquired a mutation in its envelope gene that is thought to make it more readily transmitted by A. albopictus, also known as the Asian tiger mosquito, which predominates on Réunion. The virus causing
A wave of the mosquito-borne viral disease chikungunya sweeping Réunion, a French department in the southwest Indian Ocean, has led to hundreds of hospitalizations. RICHARD BOUHET/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES
the new outbreak “evolved a bit [since 2005–06], but the circulating lineage now still carries [that mutation],” Muriel Vincent, an epidemiologist on Réunion with Public Health France, said at a World Health Organization (WHO) webinar on 7 May. “We assume that’s why we saw such an explosive circulation.”
Houriiyah Tegally, a bioinformatician who is head of data science at CERI, believes there is another factor. “It’s been a really long time now, 20 years” since the last big outbreak, enough time for an entire generation of young people to be born without immunity to the virus, says Tegally, who with colleagues is studying the genetics of the virus on Réunion and Mauritius and supporting the outbreak response. In addition, she says, French people and other Europeans often retire to Réunion, providing an additional population of immunologically naïve people.
The new vaccine promised to help stem the spread. Made of a live, weakened version of the virus, Ixchiq was approved last year by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for those ages 18 and older in the United States
and by other regulators for use in this age group in the European Union, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Last month, it was approved for those ages 12 to 17 in the EU.
But earlier hints of safety problems had led a U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advisory committee to recommend on 16 April that the vaccine be used with caution in people 65 years and older. The problems became clearer in recent weeks as Réunion launched an emergency vaccination campaign against chikungunya with a priority, according to a Valneva press release, on older, more at risk adults. But now, because of the adverse events, including two deaths.
Read the full article at Science website: https://www.science.org/content/article/mosquitoborne-viral-disease-sweeping-indian-ocean-islands
Science Communication to Public Engagement: Optimising Benefits, Mitigating Barriers
In an age where misinformation spreads faster than facts, it has never been more crucial for scientists to engage the public. An open lecture by Prof. Marina Joubert
text: Ameera Crew illustration: Tulio de Oliveira
In an age where misinformation spreads faster than facts, it has never been more crucial for scientists to engage the public. From climate change denial to vaccine hesitancy, there are far-reaching consequences when there is public distrust and misunderstanding of science. This reality has sparked a shift in approach: from one-sided science communication toward engaged dialogue and genuine exchange with diverse audiences.
On Monday, 19 May 2025, Public Squares hosted its first lecture of 2025. The lecture, titled From Science Communication to Public Engagement: Optimising Benefits, Mitigating Barriers, was presented by Prof. Marina Joubert. Prof. Joubert is a senior science communication researcher and Associate Professor at the Centre for Research on Evaluation Science and Technology (CREST) at Stellenbosch University. The lecture explored the shift from science communication to public engagement, highlighting
its importance, benefits, challenges and practical measures for effective and meaningful public engagement.
From Science Communication to Public Engagement
At its core, science communication involves conversation and making knowledge accessible to wider audiences. Buch and Trench (2021) describes science communication as the “social conversation around science”. It’s not just about passing down facts or talking at people; it’s also about dialogue and co-producing knowledge. Prof. Joubert defined science communication as “making science visible, relevant, meaningful, accessible, and memorable”. In other words, it helps public audiences see the value of science and why it matters in everyday life.
Science communication goes beyond end results – it also gives importance to how research is done and how it impacts society ethically and morally. It offers a range of benefits such as scientists gaining increased recognition which can help them influence policy, attract more funding
and reach broader audiences. These benefits, however, tend to revolve around scientists and institutions, leaving communities and their contributions sidelined.
Public engagement addresses this limitation by fostering intentional and meaningful interactions. Instead of assuming that non-scientists lack knowledge and need to be educated through a top-down approach, public engagement promotes a more inclusive approach. It encourages scientists to involve people, seeing their experiences, perspectives, knowledge and values as meaningful contributors to knowledge production.
Benefits and barriers
In his book, “The engaged scholar”, Andrew J. Hoffman discusses the mutual benefits of public engagement, highlighting the enriching impact for both researchers and communities.
When scientists engage public audiences, they become both an expert and a citizen. Their engagement is characterised by humility, listening, reflection, and the willingness to learn from and work with others. Communities become collaborative partners in this process of knowledge production as they shape research and outcomes. This fosters trust and accessibility, ensuring that research addresses issues that affect communities, enhancing social equity, diversity, and inclusivity.
Despite its mutual benefits, public engagement faces barriers to implementation that can hinder its positive effects. The top down “scientist-to-public” approach in the dissemination of knowledge is still firmly entrenched in academia resulting in the value of community knowledge and contribution being overlooked. Institutional structures like media officers and press releases tend to reinforce one-way communication instead of meaningful dialogue. Additionally, public engagement is sometimes reduced to a tick-box exercise for scientists to gain funding or public policy support, essentially stripping away the intentionality that is at the heart of public engagement.
Being an engaged scholar
Effective public engagement relies on clear communication, transparency, and mutual trust. Researchers should openly share their affiliations and intentions, set expectations early, and prioritise engaged dialogue over one-sided conversation. Using plain language, relatable examples, and personal stories helps build emotional connections and makes complex ideas more accessible. These practices can help mitigate the barriers to public engagement.
An illustrative example, as cited by Prof. Joubert in the lecture, is Prof. Salim Abdool Karim, a distinguished public health physician, epidemiologist, and virologist.
He was appointed to lead the 45-member South African Ministerial Advisory Committee and played a central role in shaping the country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Through numerous media appearances, he not only provided expert analysis and scientific insight but also connected with the public on a human level. By openly expressing his personal concerns for the health and wellbeing of his family, he built trust and credibility between scientists and public audiences at a time marked by widespread uncertainty and polarised discourse around the virus and vaccination.
Insights from the lecture
The lecture was well attended and had a diverse audience ranging from researchers, professors, lecturers, postdoctoral fellows, and students. Below are some insights from two of the audience members.
Dr. Berna Gerber, Senior Lecturer in SpeechLanguage and Hearing Therapy at Stellenbosch University and member of the Public Square on Early Intervention and Child Mental Health
“I really like the concept of engagement and co-creation. I think that is definitely the root that science communication on early life research needs to take. So, it was very inspiring. I really liked the message about telling stories, acknowledging people’s emotions, sharing your own uncertainties, etc. as a researcher”.
Solomzi Mphambo, BA Philosophy, Political Science and Economics (PPE) student
“Something that stood out for me was Professor Joubert’s emphasis on public engagement and how it is needed within the sciences, whether that be hard sciences or the soft sciences. Science does not exist in a vacuum, and it always needs consultation with the public”.
Conclusion
Ultimately, being an engaged scholar means realising that facts alone do not change minds, and more knowledge does not equal more support for science.
The idea that effective public engagement requires more than just facts is not new. Aristotle taught that effective communication relies on three things: 1) logos: arguments or facts, 2) ethos: credibility of the speaker and 3) pathos: emotional appeals. These elements can be seen as the three pillars of a stable chair – relying on only one or two will not hold the weight. For public engagement to be truly effective, scientists must appeal to audiences in all three areas. As Prof. Joubert put it simply, “facts are the core, but emotion is the key”.
You can watch the full lecture here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3sQ-tPHYA4
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Science does not exist in a vacuum, and it always needs consultation with the public
Solomzi Mphambo comment on the Public Engagement Lecture
PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Mastering the Art of Visual Storytelling
On 14 May 2025, CERI hosted an interactive photography workshop in the famous glassenclosed “fishbowl” boardroom at the School for Data Science and Computational Thinking
text:
Yajna Ramphal and Dr. Monika Moir
photos:
Tulio de Oliveira, Bethlehem Tefera, Lavanya Singh, Yajna Ramphal and Stefan Els
where creativity meets science, great storytelling begins. On 14 May 2025, the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) hosted an interactive photography workshop in the famous glass-enclosed “fishbowl” boardroom at the School for Data Science and Computational Thinking, Stellenbosch University. This workshop aimed to equip CERI staff, students and fellows with hands-on photography training to help them produce improved science communication visuals. In an era where research needs to break past academic walls, the ability to capture thoughtful, eye-catching images has become an essential skill in every academic’s and researcher’s toolkit.
For decades, academics held onto the aphorism of ‘publish or perish’ for career advancement. The success of an academic would be judged by the number of peerreviewed papers, proceedings, or book chapters they have published. But nowadays, in a hyperconnected world, a new mantra has emerged: ‘be visible or vanish’. It’s no longer about publication quantity but visibility, reach, and impact, making research resonate beyond the ivory tower. It also requires academics to develop an intellectual identity and engage with the public to showcase the findings of their latest work. To reach the widest public audience, scientists are using visual storytelling through photographs, tweets, videos or “reels” on social media. CERI understands the importance
of doing this well and arranged this workshop for their team to further develop this skill set.
This workshop focused on photography as it is a powerful tool for communicating ideas, sharing stories, and connecting with others. Naturally, the workshop was facilitated by Stefan Els, Stellenbosch University’s renowned photographer, known for capturing some of the campus’s most iconic images. With his signature clarity and creative eye, Stefan guided the team through the fundamentals of photography. He covered aspects of composition, lighting, and framing, and helped to capture the art of science through the camera lens. Stefan emphasised using cell phones in photography as a quick, effortless
means to snap a pic, with minimal setup and is always readily available in our pockets. After a short instructional session, the team excitedly grabbed their phones for a fun and interactive exercise. We were sent outside for 15 minutes to capture photographs of anything that caught our eye. When we shared these photographs to critique and learn from one another, we were impressed by the natural talent of the team. From the flowing lines of a reception desk to the creative reflections of colleagues through glass windows framed perfectly with the CERI banners behind them, and striking shadows on the walls of the new School for Data Science Headquarters. But most striking of all was the laughter, smiles, and teamwork that flowed out
of the CERI staff while photographing their surroundings and one another.
Beyond the technical skills, the workshop encouraged the team to think more critically about how visual documentation works. A well-timed image can tell a compelling story or simply show the human side of research. How a well-composed photograph requires spatial awareness and design thinking and how an image can create a narrative that connects people to the heart of science. It can bridge the gap between complex science and public understanding or just remind us of the beauty in our everyday work.
After the workshop, the team feels more inspired to capture memorable moments while travelling for conferences or meetings. And better equipped to tell our scientific stories through photographs of our journeys in public health and genomics. The CERI team reflected on their experience of the workshop and what they have learnt:
“I learnt about several features in my phone that I was not previously aware of. I will certainly be more intentional about my photos in the future to make sure they tell a story” – Dr Cheryl Baxter
“The highlight for me was finding out about all the cool tips and tricks to take high-quality photo’s
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I learnt about several features in my phone that I was not previously aware of. I will certainly be more intentional about my photos in the future to make sure they tell a story
- Dr Cheryl Baxter
using my iPhone. Also, great to learn about how mundane and ordinary objects could be brought to life when captured in the right frame!”
– Dr Lavanya Singh
“Besides the many useful tips on cell phone features to assist with lighting, spacing, dimensions etc, what resonated most with me as a laboratory scientist was the emphasis on intentionality in photography. In the same way we diligently fill our lab books with highly detailed records for comprehension in years to come, so too should our photographs capture details relevant for later context, like location, timing, etc. I appreciate this new perspective.”
– Prof Lenine Liebenberg
“Through the lens, I’ve always seen beauty—but this training helped me understand the art of framing it. It turned my passion for photography into a deeper craft, where every moment becomes a masterpiece of light, focus, and timing.”
– Dr Bethlehem Tefera
At CERI, where science meets collaboration and innovation, the workshop was a welcome pause to reflect and connect.
KRISP Celebrates Academic Excellence: Honouring Our Autumn Graduates
Graduation season is upon us—and at KRISP, we’re proudly celebrating the academic achievements of five exceptional team members who have reached major milestones in their scientific journeys. These graduations represent more than just degrees—they symbolize years of hard work, late nights, collaborative breakthroughs, and an unwavering commitment to scientific excellence. Each graduate brings their unique talents and expertise to the KRISP community, and their success is a testament to the culture of growth and mentorship within the organization.
Their dedication, resilience, and passion for science are truly inspiring. Whether working at the forefront of virology, advancing forensic science, or achieving top honours in microbiology, these individuals are shaping the future of health research in Africa and beyond.
“We are so proud of what our colleagues have accomplished,” said Prof. Tulio de Oliveira, Director of KRISP. “Their success reflects not only their individual brilliance but also KRISP’s commitment to nurturing scientific talent and empowering the next generation of African researchers.” This moment is not just a celebration of academic achievement—it’s a reminder that excellence in science begins with strong foundations, supportive communities, and bold aspirations. These graduates embody the spirit of African innovation and excellence, and we look forward to seeing the impact they will continue to make in the world of science.
From all of us at KRISP and CERI: Well done, graduates! Your future is bright, and we’re honoured to be part of your journey.
Above: Dr. Sureshnee Pillay – PhD in Virology, Kourush Fassihi – MSc in Medical Science (Virology)
Kisharia Dharamdev
Kisharia Dharamdev earned her Master of Philosophy in Biomedical Forensic Science, investigating the effectiveness of human identification methods at Salt River Mortuary under the supervision of Kate Reid. Kourush Fassihi completed his Master of Science in Virology, validating a rapid, targeted sequencing approach for SARS-CoV-2 surveillance, supervised by Prof Tulio de Oliveira and Dr Lavanya Singh.
Anele Londeka Zungu
Hlengiwe Shange
BMedSc Honours in Medical Microbiology (Cum Laude). Hlengiwe Shange research project explored resistance genes in Acinetobacter baumannii from a regional tertiary hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
BMedSc Honours in Medical Microbiology (Cum Laude). Anele Londeka Zungu graduated cum laude with Bachelor of Medical Science Honours in Medical Microbiology. Anele’s thesis focused on the epidemiology of ESKAPE bacteria and new antimicrobial strategies for imipenem-resistant Gram-negative bacilli in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
BUILDING RESEARCH FOUNDATIONS
SACEMA’S FLAGSHIP SHORT COURSE, INTRODUCTION TO EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS, RECENTLY CONCLUDED A SUCCESSFUL WEEK
SACEMA’s flaship short course, Introduction to Epidemiological Analysis, recently concluded a successful week of training, equipping participants with essential skills in epidemiological thinking and data analysis. Designed for students, researchers, and public health professionals, the course combined rigorous academic content with hands-on application, delivering a dynamic and impactful learning experience.
This one-week intensive course, 07-11 April, introduced foundational concepts in epidemiology alongside practical data management and visualization using R. The programme was developed by SACEMA to address the growing demand for analytical skills in public health, disease surveillance, and research. It blends two training tracks:
Introduction to Epidemiology and Research Methodology: Study design, bias, causation, and scientific communication
Introduction to Data Management with R: Cleaning, transforming, exploring, and visualizing data using tidyverse tools
Dr Jo Barnes led the epidemiology component with clarity and depth, while Dr Larisse Bolton and Ms Zinhle Mthombothi facilitated the R training with energy and real-world application.
Participants engaged with realworld case studies, learned to critically appraise research methods, and explored the epidemiological reasoning behind public health decisions. This year’s cohort included Master’s and PhD students, government
researchers, SACEMA policy modelling fellows, and early-career academics from across the continent. The hybrid format – offered both in-person and via Microsoft Teams – enabled wide participation while maintaining interactive and high-quality instruction.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. Highlights include:
Improved understanding of study designs and research ethics
Practical experience in R for data analysis and reporting
Engaging lectures and relatable examples from the field
Increased confidence in critically evaluating epidemiological research
Participants noted the presenters’ approachability, responsiveness, and deep expertise as major strengths.
“The course really probed the mind—each topic was coupled with realistic scenarios. It was a very beneficial week.”
“Learning about bias, causation, and how to write effective research papers was incredibly helpful. The practical sessions were clear, insightful, and fun.”
Whether you are just beginning your research journey or looking to sharpen your epidemiological toolkit, this course provides a robust, practical foundation. You’ll gain technical skills, critical thinking strategies, and the ability to apply epidemiological principles to real-world problems.
Questions can be addressed to SACEMA Training Coordinator, Faikah Bruce – faikah@sun.ac.za
YOUTUBE VIDEOS
Our engagement in videos and TVs. Communication
LaunchLab 10 Years & CERI BIO
In May 2025, we opened a state-of-the-art biotech incubator in South Africa, which already has multiple companies but also celebrated 10 years of one of the most successful business accelerator program in Africa. The occasion also marked a major milestone for LaunchLab, which is proudly celebrating 10 years of empowering innovators and entrepreneurs. LaunchLab CERIBIO is an extension of the support already provided to entrepreneurs by Stellenbosch University’s business incubator, the LaunchLab.
Watch full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OjNfD_iqhQ
Stellenbosch VC on CERIBIO
Professor Deresh Ramjugernath interview on the launch of CERI BIO and the 10 years celebration of LaunchLab. Here he highlights how commercialisation of deep technologies like biotech holds high impact potential in Africa. But unlike software or fintech, which offer faster returns, deep tech ventures require long-term infrastructure and investment. LaunchLab CERIBIO is a deliberate intervention to shift this dynamic.
Watch full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVFTaF6pewI
COVID-19 new variant raises global concerns
It’s been over five years since COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic. As winter approaches in the Southern Hemisphere, a new variant — NB.1.8.1 — is raising concern in China due to a rise in hospitalisations. The WHO has designated NB.1.8.1 as a “variant under monitoring”. But is there real cause for concern? In this interview, Prof. Tulio de Oliveira, Director of the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI), explains that NB.1.8.1 is.
Watch full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwbLxXscuek
Public Engagement in Science
On Monday, 19 May 2025, Public Squares hosted its first lecture of 2025. The lecture, titled From Science Communication to Public Engagement: Optimising Benefits, Mitigating Barriers, was presented by Prof. Marina Joubert. Prof. Joubert is a senior science communication researcher and Associate Professor at the Centre for Research on Evaluation Science and Technology (CREST) at Stellenbosch University. The lecture explored the shift from science communication to public engagement, highlighting its importance, benefits, challenges and practical measures for effective and meaningful public engagement.
Watch full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3sQ-tPHYA4
SCIENTIFIC ENGAGEMENT
From Classrooms to KRISP DNA Labs
KRISP Welcomes IkamvaYouth Learners to the Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine
text: Paul Harris
photos: Paul Harris
On Friday, 23 May, KRISP had the honour of hosting 21 enthusiastic Grade 12 learners from KwaMathanda High School, part of the IkamvaYouth Science Track in Umlazi. This inspiring outreach day formed part of KRISP’s broader mission to create meaningful opportunities for young South Africans to engage with science and consider future careers in genomics and research.
The learners dove straight into a revision session covering key matric Life Sciences concepts—focusing on DNA and its role in genetics and biotechnology. Building on this foundation, they participated in a hands-on DNA extraction experiment using strawberries, offering a fun and accessible way to explore molecular biology in action.
In addition to the scientific exploration, learners received practical guidance on university applications, admissions processes, and possible career paths, thanks to the support of University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) academic staff. A tour of KRISP’s stateof-the-art genomics lab capped off the day, giving learners a behind-thescenes look at the powerful tools and
technologies driving health research in Africa.
“It was incredibly rewarding to be part of their learning journey and to spark curiosity about careers in science and research,” said Dr. Amsha Viraragavan, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at KRISP.
For the learners, the experience was both educational and inspirational.
“Today was really inspiring and helped us to go over some important areas of our Life Sciences work,” said Zama Maphumulo, a matric student at KwaMathanda High School. “It was a wonderful experience and it has made me want to consider something to do with medicine or research here at UKZN.”
These outreach programmes are about more than just exposure—they’re about transformation.
“Days such as this are so important for our learners as they get an opportunity to network with professionals and see how different careers work in the real world,” said Luyanda Mnguni, Head of Tutors at the IkamvaYouth Umlazi Branch. “These outings help bridge the gap between the theory the students receive from their books and phones, and the practical real-life
application.”
The event also underscored the power of collaboration between institutions, non-profits, and national platforms in nurturing young scientific talent.
“We love these outreach days and hope that the experience and exposure will inspire the next generation of genomic scientists and researchers,” said Dr. Jennifer Giandhari, reflecting on the opportunity to work alongside organisations like IkamvaYouth.
KRISP extends heartfelt thanks to DIPLOMICS (Distributed Platform in Omics) for sponsoring this initiative and making it possible. Their commitment to science education is helping open doors for young people across the country.
“The long-term goal of DIPLOMICS with these outreach programmes is to bring together different education and industry stakeholders, and to help demonstrate to the students how science impacts their daily lives beyond the pages of a textbook,” said Mhlekazi Molatoli, Training Coordinator at DIPLOMICS.
“We hope to inspire and enable the next generation of South African scientists, who will tackle issues around disease, food security, and climate change.”
At KRISP, we believe that by inspiring curiosity today, we are investing in the solutions of tomorrow. Events like this are powerful reminders of the talent, potential, and passion that exists within our communities—just waiting for the right opportunity to shine.
Building Capacity in Genomics
In a significant stride toward enhancing next-generation sequencing (NGS) expertise across the continent, the KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP) hosted a comprehensive 7-day Illumina Library Preparation and Sequencing workshop this May. Held from the 6th to the 14th of May at KRISP’s cutting-edge facility, the workshop brought together 15 enthusiastic participants from diverse research backgrounds, all eager to deepen their understanding of NGS—from wet lab techniques to data analysis.
The workshop kicked off with a robust introduction to Illumina technology, guiding participants through the core principles of library preparation and sequencing workflows. Attendees observed key steps in action—such as tagging, post-tag clean-up, and amplification—gaining firsthand insight into the foundational techniques that underpin high-quality sequencing.
“It is exciting to see such strong engagement as we continue to build NGS capacity in the region,” remarked Dr. Sureshnee Pillay, one of the lead facilitators.
U.K. Parliamentary visit to South Africa
The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) - UK Branch delegation has come for a high level visit to the Parliament of South Africa on May 19-23, 2025, in Cape Town. The visit aimed to deepen relations between the U.K. Parliament and the South African Parliament, with the delegation meeting members of both the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces.
As part to the visit to South Africa, the delegation spent a day in the CERI laboratories at the BMRI building, Stellenbosch University. The visit was aimed at improving scientific and health collaboration between CERI and U.K. scientists at public health officials. As part of the delegation, it includes the previous health minister of the U.K. and Brian George Felton Mathew, who is current a Member of Parliament (MP).
Strengthening Genomics Capacity: KRISP Hosts Delega-
tion from SMU
KRISP recently had the privilege of welcoming a delegation of senior lecturers and scientists from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) in Gauteng. Their visit formed part of a benchmarking initiative to explore the design, infrastructure, and operation of a successful genomics laboratory. As leaders in the field, KRISP was proud to open its doors and share practical insights into the inner workings of our high-throughput sequencing facility, as well as the research programmes that power our contribution to genomics in Africa.
Strenghtening collaboration with Univ of Bern
Prof Carmen Faso, co-director of the Multidisciplinary Center for Infectious Diseases (MCID) at the University of Bern in Switzerland come to Stellenbosch to further develop the collaborative program and Cluster of Research Excellence - Genomics for Health in Africa (CoREGHA). The CoRE-GHA develops sustainable, world-class research capacity across Africa in collaboration with European Universities by melding teaching, research and stakeholder
engagement activities in a unique framework with a focus on integrated genomics of rare diseases and familial cancers, and pathogen-host genetic variation, issues of shared concern for European and African public health systems alike, with significant and unmet clinical burdens in both continents. CoRE-GHA also provides a unique and open platform to the African research community to exploit the full potential of genomics coupled with protein
structure-function studies as a fundamental tool to revolutionise public healthcare for infectious and rare non-communicable diseases.
SOAS VC Prof Adam Habib visit to CERI & Data School HQ
Prof Adam Habib spent a whole day with CERI’s and Data School team in Stellenbosch on the 29 June 2025. He was a visitor of Prof. Wim de Villiers, chief strategic officer of CERI and previous VC of Stellenbosch University. Prof Habib discussed
collaborative data science degrees between the SOAS (School of Oriental and African Science) University of London, where Prof Habib is the VC and CERI and Data School at Stellenbosch.
