University of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban is formed since January 2004 as a result of a merger between the former universities of Natal and Durban-Westville, the University of KwaZulu-Natal adopted a vision of the “Premier University of African Scholarship” with research innovation as a cornerstone of this new higher learning institution. The University is made up of five different campuses including the internationally recognised Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine located in Durban, adjacent to King Edward VIII academic hospital. This medical school was founded in 1950 and only during its 50th anniversary in 2000 that the former president and Nobel Peace Prize winner, Nelson R Mandela agreed to link his name to the school. The Medical Microbiology Research Unit is part of the Department of Infection Control and Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine at the Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine. The research unit is located in the Doris Duke Medical Research Institute and is a leading unit and centre of excellence for TB and STD research. It is currently working in collaboration with the newly founded KwaZulu-Natal Research Institute for TB and HIV (K-RITH). The unit is home to the leading academics and impressive researchers willing to mentor the young generation of scientists and clinical researchers.
Fellowship Site: Durban, South Africa
DetailsInternational Site: Country: Site Director and 2008 International Fellow: US Institution: Primary Contact and 2008 US Fellow: |
Research Opportunities:
The Medical Microbiology Research Unit offers a variety of research opportunities involving both basic science and clinically orientated research. The unit has two main areas of research interest: Tuberculosis and Sexually Transmitted Infections.
1. Tuberculosis and HIV co-infection:
- Molecular epidemiology of MDR/XDR-TB
- Pathogenesis studies on XDR-TB survivors
- Anti-microbial drug susceptibility testing studies
- Surveillance studies of MDR/XDR-TB in SADC countries
- Phage therapy and basic science studies
2. Sexually Transmitted Infections:
- Surveillance studies and antimicrobial susceptibility studies on Neisseria gonorrhoeae in South Africa and other African countries (SADC)
- Studies on pathogenesis of curable STD pathogens and HIV co-infection
- Immunopathogenesis of fungal vulvo-vaginitis in HIV co-infected women
- Studies on cervico-vaginal mucosal immunity and association with non-ulcerative STIs: cytokine/chemokine dynamics and implications of HIV-1 co-infection
- Molecular epidemiology
Housing/Meals/Transportation:
In general, the housing for trainees at the Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine may consist either of an apartment or accommodation attached to a private residence or a cottage on a private residential property next to the school. The distance to the research facility would be dependent on where the accommodation is. It is easy, cheaper and more secure for a trainee to purchase a used car. However, a public transport may also be a good alternative.
Health Issues:
The NIH/ICRF program requires all trainees to see a physician before they leave for assignment abroad. Please visit U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and The Yellow Book: Health Information for International Travel for more information.
Safety Issues:
Please visit the State Department website for more information.
Language Requirements Other than English:
The Medical Microbiology Research Unit in particular and the University of KwaZulu-Natal in general are English speaking institutions; therefore, English proficiency would ensure the ability of the foreign trainees to function effectively.
What is it like to live in South Africa?
South Africa has a variety of cultures, languages, religions and nationalities. The quality of life is high with a relatively low living cost. The climate is great and the food generally excellent.
