The first CERI-SACEMA Research Days, held from November 27-29, 2024, brought together students, researchers, and staff for three days of scientific exchange and learning. Opening keynotes by Prof. Francesco Petruccione and Prof. Thulani Makhalanyane set the collaborative tone, emphasizing how different scientific disciplines can work together to address complex health challenges.Day one centered on professional development through targeted workshops covering media engagement, social media personal branding, artificial intelligence research tools, and project management. These sessions equipped participants with practical skills essential for modern scientific careers.
The presentations both oral and posters showcased the breadth of research happening across CERI-SACEMA research groups. Viral surveillance emerged as one of the themes, with studies ranging from modified COVIDSeq techniques for influenza monitoring to SARS-CoV-2 disease burden analysis in South Africa. Related work examined dengue and West Nile virus genomics across Africa, highlighting the importance of continental disease surveillance.
HIV research featured prominently, with presentations exploring viral suppression patterns, the impact of dolutegravir treatment, and the changing face of HIV in rural African communities. A particularly interesting study examined how HIV affects gut microbiota in postpartum women, bridging clinical and microbiome research.
Environmental health research demonstrated the interconnection between human wellbeing and ecological systems. Studies explored microbiota in various housing environments, from informal settlements to urban areas, while others examined microbial processes in marine and desert ecosystems. This work emphasized how environmental factors influence public health outcomes.
The African Microbiome Project presented findings that could inform continental policy, while studies of antimicrobial resistance in urban wastewater highlighted emerging public health challenges. Research on climate-amplified diseases demonstrated how environmental changes affect disease patterns, emphasizing the need for adaptive health strategies.
Two-minute poster pitches challenged presenters to communicate complex ideas concisely, sparking discussions that continued between sessions. These interactions often revealed unexpected connections between different research areas, from molecular studies to population health interventions.
The meeting concluded with a debate on interdisciplinary science in health research, where participants shared experiences in bridging scientific fields. The conversation underscored how combining perspectives from various disciplines leads to more comprehensive public health solutions.
For many students, the Research Days offered their first opportunity to present to a broad scientific audience. The supportive environment encouraged feedback and discussion, while workshops provided practical skills for their research careers.
As the inaugural Research Days drew to a close, it was clear that CERI-SACEMA had created more than just a meeting – they had fostered an environment where scientific collaboration could flourish. The event demonstrated how bringing together diverse research approaches can drive innovation in health research, setting a strong foundation for future gatherings.
