Prof. Pier Paolo Piccaluga Visits Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology

The Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Nairobi was honoured to receive Prof. Pier Paolo Piccaluga for a courtesy call on the 5th of May 2025. Prof. Piccaluga met with the Chair of the Department, Dr. Marianne Mureithi, and Dr. Noel Onyango, a Department Lecturer and the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Research Lead at the KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research.

Prof. Piccaluga, a distinguished pathologist and biomedical researcher, is affiliated with several leading institutions in Europe and has built a notable career in translational oncology and molecular pathology. His work has significantly advanced the understanding of hematological malignancies and solid tumours, particularly in resource-limited settings. Recognised officially as a Visiting Lecturer in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Prof. Piccaluga contributes annually to the Master’s program, where he teaches Molecular Biology and shares his extensive expertise with postgraduate students.

During the visit, discussions centred around strengthening ongoing collaborations, particularly in the fields of cancer research and HIV. Prof. Piccaluga and Dr. Onyango, who have a long-standing research partnership, are working with the Department to explore joint grant applications focusing on cancers that intersect with infectious diseases, especially HIV. Further conversations addressed potential clinical trial collaborations and the development of innovative oncology therapeutics tailored to local health needs.

Reflecting on the visit, Dr. Mureithi stated:
"Prof. Piccaluga’s visit reaffirms our commitment to global partnerships that enhance our research and training capacity. His expertise in cancer and molecular medicine complements our Department’s strengths in infectious diseases, and we are excited about the prospects for joint initiatives that address pressing health challenges in Kenya and beyond."

The Department looks forward to deepening ties with Prof. Piccaluga and leveraging this collaboration to advance translational research, capacity building, and clinical innovation in cancer and infectious diseases.