The Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration (IDRC) hosted the Young Investigators Research Symposium on July 10, 2024. The symposium brought together budding researchers and seasoned scientists to present their insightful studies. Emphasising the importance of fostering a new generation of researchers, it featured a range of compelling studies across various fields.
IDRC Executive Director Professor Moses Kamya expressed his delight at the gathering in his opening remarks. He emphasised the significance of nurturing young talent in research, commended young and senior scientists, and noted mentors’ crucial role in shaping future researchers. Professor Kamya also thanked the organising committee for orchestrating the successful symposium.
The first session of the symposium was on tuberculosis and HIV. Dr William Worodria, chairing the session on TB/HIV, set the tone for the session alongside Ms Jane Kabami, who presented a study on improving viral suppression among pregnant and postpartum women in sub-Saharan Africa. Jane’s research aimed to enhance HIV suppression rates through targeted interventions like enhanced screening for sexually transmitted infections (STI), counselling, and postpartum support.
In her presentation, Ms Cecilia Akatukwasa illuminated stakeholder perspectives regarding a community-based peer-delivery of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) intervention for sex workers in Uganda. The study focused on overcoming barriers such as stigma and limited PrEP uptake service among vulnerable populations.
Dr Mucunguzi Atukunda shared insights on an Integrated HIV/ Hypertension (HTN) care model’s impact on reducing blood pressure among adults with HIV in Uganda. The study highlighted the positive outcomes of the integrated care approach in managing hypertension among people living with HIV.
Florence Mwangwa discussed the SEARCH-Youth intervention and its efficacy in alleviating depression symptoms among young people living with HIV in western Uganda. The multi-component intervention showed promising results in addressing mental health challenges among youth living with HIV.
Session Two of the symposium was on Malaria Molecular Surveillance and was chaired by Dr Isaac Ssewanyana and Jessica Briggs. The first presentation was by Dr Diana Kisakye, who presented findings from an evaluation of rapid diagnostic tests for malaria diagnosis and the prevalence of pfhrp2/pfhrp3 deletions in Uganda. Her research underscored the importance of accurate diagnostic tools in malaria control and surveillance efforts.
Mr Thomas Katairo compared the performance of Molecular Inversion Probes and the MAD4HaTeR Amplicon Sequencing Panel in detecting Plasmodium falciparum mutations associated with antimalarial drug resistance. The study highlighted the strengths and nuances of each genotyping method, providing valuable insights for malaria molecular research.
Drs Sam Nsobya and Melissa Conrad chaired the third session, which was on drug resistance. Dr Stephen Tukwasibwe captivated the audience with his presentation on the prevalence of drug-resistance mutations among new refugees in Uganda. He emphasised the importance of surveillance to combat emerging drug resistance, especially in conflict zones where routine monitoring is challenging.
Dr Tukwasibwe’s study highlighted the diverse genetic mutations associated with antimalarial drug resistance in different refugee populations, shedding light on the varying resistance patterns in various regions. Through collaborations with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the research team conducted comprehensive surveys to identify and monitor the prevalence of these mutations, paving the way for early detection, effective intervention strategies, and continuous surveillance.
In the subsequent session on Immunology, speakers like Mr Kenneth Musinguzi, Ms Felistas Nankya, Ms Nora Yang, and Dr Irene Bagala delved into diverse aspects of immune responses, providing valuable insights into malaria prevention and immune profiles associated with protection against the disease. Their research offered promising avenues for developing strategies to enhance further research on malaria vaccine candidates.
Turning the spotlight on maternal child health, researchers like Drs Martha Nassali, Miriam Aguti, Jimmy Kizza, and Carol Kamya presented studies addressing crucial issues such as malaria burden in infants, pregnancy dating discrepancies, and the cost-effectiveness of malaria chemoprevention. Their work highlighted the importance of innovative interventions to improve maternal and child health outcomes in malaria-endemic regions.
During the Young Investigators Research Symposium, leading experts and emerging scientists gathered to share innovative research in drug resistance, immunology, and maternal child health. The symposium featured engaging discussions and sessions highlighting the latest advances in understanding and combating malaria, a pressing health concern in Uganda.
The symposium concluded with an awards ceremony honouring outstanding research contributions. Professor Moses Kamya commended the researchers for their dedication and innovative findings in the fight against malaria. Dr Stephen Tukwasibwe was awarded the Distinguished Scholar Award for his exceptional contributions to malaria research spanning drug resistance and immunology domains.
The New Investigator Award was also presented to Mr Thomas Katairo, recognising his promising research in malaria genomics. The awards underscored the exceptional talent and commitment of young researchers shaping the future of malaria research and public health initiatives.
As the symposium ended, the organisers thanked all participants for their invaluable contributions and collaboration in advancing scientific knowledge and strategies to combat malaria effectively. The event stood as a testament to the collective effort and dedication towards overcoming the challenges posed by malaria and improving global health outcomes.
Attendees left the symposium inspired by the diverse studies and anticipating these researchers’ contributions to their respective fields. The gathering served as a testament to the power of research in driving positive change and advancing healthcare solutions.
The next symposium edition is scheduled for 2026, promising another enlightening gathering of young investigators and seasoned scientists eager to share their discoveries and insights.
