Molecular Biosciences Research Thrust: Health for Africa
MBRT: What and who we are
The Molecular Biosciences Research Thrust (MBRT) was founded to stimulate research and other academic activities in the broad area of health-related molecular biosciences at the University of the Witwatersrand, and to create a vibrant atmosphere in which scientists and students within both the Faculties of Science and Health Sciences can realize their full research potential.
The Thrust is governed by the Executives (Dr Adriaan Basson and Dr Nancy Meulenberg) and supported by the Champions (Prof. Mandeep Kaur and Prof. Maria Papathanasopoulos). The WITS Health Sciences Research Office administers the Thrust.
MBRT: Aspirational goals and objectives
The research focus of the Thrust is encapsulated in the molecular understanding of common diseases and the health of Sub-Saharan African populations.
Groups of researchers and postgraduate students who share common research interests can identify suitable collaborations and collaborators within the University of the Witwatersrand and partner institutions – a hallmark of effective modern science.
The primary element binding participants of the Thrust is the use of common technologies and equipment to address research questions, but the vision is that it will foster clusters of researchers working on different aspects of the same theme.
In this way, bigger research questions can be tackled, and more research funding can be leveraged for the successful completion of research projects.
MBRT: Postgraduate research symposium
The annual MBRT Postgraduate Research Day is a highlight in our calendars. It is aimed specifically at postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows in the WITS Faculties of Sciences and Health Sciences to showcase the exciting research taking place across both Faculties, and to provide an opportunity for intra- and inter-Faculty collaborations between postgraduate students, early career researchers and senior scientists.
Want to become a member?
Contact Dr Adriaan Basson or Dr Nancy Meulenberg for the appropriate documents to enlist.