Biography
I am a dedicated PhD candidate in Veterinary Science at the University of Pretoria, specializing in the development of virus-like particle (VLP)-based vaccines for avian diseases. My research focuses on utilizing Nicotiana benthamiana as a platform to create innovative vaccines targeting Avian Encephalomyelitis Virus (AEV) and Necrotic Enteritis (NE). My academic journey includes an MSc in Biochemistry (cum laude) from Rhodes University, where I gained extensive experience in preclinical drug discovery for triple-negative breast cancer. Alongside my research, I actively contribute to the scientific community as a student representative for the South African Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (SASBMB). Research interests
- Veterinary vaccinology with a focus on subunit and virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines.
- Development of novel vaccines for Avian Encephalomyelitis Virus (AEV) and Necrotic Enteritis (NE).
- Application of Nicotiana benthamiana for recombinant protein production. Projects you're working on
Development of VLP-based vaccines for Avian Encephalomyelitis Virus (AEV):
Designing and expressing AEV VLPs in Nicotiana benthamiana to mimic the native virus structure and elicit protective immune responses.
Toxoid Vaccine Development for Necrotic Enteritis (NE):
Leveraging SpyCatcher-SpyTag technology to conjugate toxoid antigens to plant-expressed VLPs for NE vaccine production. This project aims to address vaccine gaps for ostrich populations in South Africa.
Comparative Studies of Plant-Based vs. Traditional Vaccine Platforms:
Assessing the efficiency, scalability, and immunogenicity of plant-based vaccine production systems for veterinary applications. Discipline
Cellular biology Challenge study design Molecular biology Virology Host species
Poultry Pathogen
Bacteria Bacteria›Clostridia Viruses Viruses›Parvovirus Stage of vaccine development
Antigen discovery and immunogen design Field trials