African-led neuroscience research earns national science recognition

“I have an army of young and energetic students that are pushing this work here in Africa.”

In South Africa, the burden of CM is especially high and its consequences profound. Determined to shift the focus toward this neglected illness, Dangarembizi established Africa’s first dedicated laboratory for this research, known as the CryptoLab, based at UCT. Her work examines how CM causes brain injury, with the aim of improving understanding of the disease and contributing to the development of more effective interventions.

An enabling environment is key to impactful research

“Dr Dangarembizi’s recognition gives impetus to the critical role of African-led research in tackling diseases that disproportionately affect the continent, and the importance of creating spaces where that research can thrive,” said Professor Jeff Murugan, acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Internationalisation at UCT.

Professor Murugan added that UCT’s dedication to advancing Africa’s scientific knowledge production and capacity to solve its own challenges is what drives the university’s research mission. “When we support researchers like Dangarembizi, we’re not just advancing science, we’re investing in people who are deeply committed to improving the lives of others. That’s what makes the university’s work so meaningful.”

In addition to conducting research and supervising postgraduate students, Dangarembizi, a recent awardee of the United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) African Research Leader Award, is the current chairperson of the Southern African Neuroscience Society (SANS), the regional neuroscience society for 10 Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries. She is also one of the directors of the ALBA Network, an international organisation promoting equity and inclusivity in brain sciences globally.
 

“We also recognise and celebrate all the finalists and nominees whose work is equally vital.”

One of her goals is to advance neuroscience research in developing institutions and as part of her academic citizenship, she lectures neuroscience in low-resourced institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa including at the National University of Science and Technology in Zimbabwe.

In addition, Murugan acknowledged the 13 UCT nominees and nine finalists for the awards: “We also recognise and celebrate all the finalists and nominees whose work is equally vital. Being acknowledged at this level is a significant achievement and reflects the depth of research talent at UCT.”