Delories Sikuku at University of KwaZulu-Natal
The Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology are incredibly proud to share the exciting news that our recently graduated MSc scholar, Delories Sikuku, has won a fully funded PhD position in Virology at the Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) at the prestigious University of KwaZulu-Natal!
Chair of the Department Dr. Marianne Mureithi speaking of her former student said, "This is a remarkable achievement and I couldn’t be prouder of Delories and her journey and accomplishments. I wish her continued success as she pursues this new chapter of excellence. The entire department and faculty is cheering her on!"
Speaking of her award, Ms. Sikuku stated "I am honored to pursue my PhD through the SANTHE Programme, a prestigious initiative supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Gilead Sciences, and the Wellcome Trust through Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI). My research focuses on the intricate relationship between the female genital tract microbiome, inflammation, and HIV-1 infection. I am investigating how these factors influence the characteristics of transmitted/founder HIV-1 strains, host metabolic profiles, and the persistence of HIV in reservoirs. This multidisciplinary investigation builds upon my previous MSc research, which examined the metabolic immune cell behavior in the context of HIV pathogenesis, and I hope it will provide insights that can shape new prevention and treatment strategies.
Through this programme, my goal is to contribute meaningfully to the fight against HIV/AIDS by advancing our understanding of the virus and its interactions with the human host. In the future, I aim to leverage this knowledge to develop innovative interventions that reduce the global burden of HIV, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. My ultimate ambition is to help create a world where HIV/AIDS is no longer a threat to public health."
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