Masters Graduate to continue her TB research in Johannesburg

BY: .

Ms Lavania Joseph will complete her internship at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases in Johannesburg after obtaining her Masters degree in Medical Sciences at UKZN.

Joseph, whose masters thesis was titled: Mutation Frequencies in Drug-Susceptible Clinical Isolates of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis under Aerobic and Anaerobic Conditions, said drug resistance was one of the major obstacles threatening the success of tuberculosis (TB) control programmes, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal. 

‘Little is known about the ability of M. tuberculosis – the causative agent of TB – to acquire mutations leading to drug resistance.’

Her study provided much-needed information on the mutational capacity of M. tuberculosis, with potential implications for anti-tuberculosis therapy.  

Joseph said: ‘Completing my masters has undoubtedly been my most significant achievement to date.  It’s extremely rewarding to have accomplished this after many hours sacrificed in the lab.

‘My decision to pursue a TB-based project was largely influenced by the fact that I live in KwaZulu-Natal, where the disease is a major health concern.  To me, it’s essential that data generated in the lab can be translated clinically into improved healthcare and patient-driven interventions.  I believe that medical science can help to bridge that gap.’

Joseph obtained her Bachelor of Medical Science Honours degree summa cum laude.

‘My greatest support throughout the years has been my father.  He supported my decision to pursue my passion for science since year one of my undergraduate studies, and has always provided that extra motivation when it was needed.’

Joseph is currently completing her National Institute for Communicable Diseases internship in Johannesburg with the aim of registering with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a scientist.

She said it was rewarding to work among ‘high-calibre researchers’ at UKZN and being able to present her research at several symposia.

‘My future plans are to continue work as a medical scientist, where I can participate in various research and surveillance projects.  I would also like to eventually pursue my PhD,’ she said.

 Lunga Memela