Leadership – Makerere University Biomedical Research Centre

Embracing the AI+BT Era: Insights from Dr. Yin Ye’s Lecture at Makerere University’s College of Health Sciences

On Wednesday, October 23, 2024, the College of Health Sciences at Makerere University had the honor of hosting Dr. Yin Ye, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of BGI Group, for a highly anticipated lecture titled “Embracing the AI+BT Era: What Should We Do Next?” The event took place at the Davies Lecture Theatre, MakCHS, and was moderated by Dr. David P. Kateete, Ph.D., Dean of the School of Biomedical Sciences.

Dr. Yin Ye, a renowned expert in genomics and biotechnology, shared his visionary perspective on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Biotechnology (BT) in modern science and medicine. His talk delved into the transformative potential of AI and biotechnology when combined, paving the way for revolutionary advancements in genomic research, medical diagnostics, and therapeutics.

Highlights of the Event:

Visit to the Vice Chancellor: The day began with a visit by Dr. Yin Ye to the Vice Chancellor’s office, accompanied by Awel, Bob Wang, and David Kateete.
Key Remarks: Opening remarks were made by distinguished officials including Prof. Moses Joloba, Executive Director of MakBRC, Prof. Richard Idro, Deputy Principal CHS, and Prof. Damalie Nakanjako, Principal CHS.
Dr. Yin Ye’s Lecture: The highlight of the event was Dr. Yin’s engaging lecture, where he explored how the convergence of AI and BT is poised to revolutionize fields such as genomics, disease prevention, and personalized medicine. He emphasized the need for research institutions and health professionals to embrace these technologies to stay at the forefront of innovation.

Additional Activities:

Following the lecture, there were light refreshments in the Dean’s Garden, a tour of the Genomics Facility and the H3Africa Biobank at the Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, and finally, a dinner with the College Leadership.

This event marked a significant moment in the centenary celebrations of Makerere University, reinforcing its commitment to advancing health sciences through cutting-edge research and collaboration with global leaders like BGI Group.

Guests-interacting-with-MakBRC-staff-during-the-Visit-1200x800.jpg

The Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat at Office of the President and Scientists from Cuba visits the Biomarker Discovery lab at MakBRC

On 6^th/Oct/2024 MakBRC hosted a team of scientists from STI-OP and Cuba at the Biomarker Discovery lab, located at Kasangati. The guests were welcomed by Dr. Ivan Mwebaza, the Head of Research and Innovations at MakBRC who emphasized the importance of this collaboration towards research, training, R&D, and skills transfer between Uganda and Cuba.

The guests, led by Dr. David Seruka and Ms Leah Nabirye from STI-OP. Scientists from Empresa de Servicios Ingenieros Especializados, Cuba (ESINES) were led by Dr. Figueroa Fernandez; Business and Development Director, Dr.Portuondo Vazquez; Deputy Director, and Dr. Sardina Fagundo; the Chief Architect & Project Manager.

The team also included Dr. Leyva Hernandez who is the Commercial & Business Director at Biocubafarma Group of Company. Dr. Palenzuela Diaz represented Immuneesayo Centre in Havana. The Ugandan embassy in Havana was represented by Dr. Komakech Paul who is an administrative assistant and also a Medical Intern at Medical University of Havana.

The purpose of this visit was to identify facilities and capital investments that can foster synergies and collaborative Research and Development (R&D) between MakBRC, STI-OP, and Cuban institutions. The Biomarker Discovery lab is one of such facilities since it is a place where basic and translational analysis of target biological markers can be performed, and prototypes validated before they progress to commercial production. Currently the lab is equipped with a high-performance liquid chromatograph-triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (LC/MS/MS) with mass range of m/z 2 to 2000.

HPLC Mass spectrometry in the Biomarker Discovery lab

The guests commended MakBRC for its commitment to developing capacity and championing innovations that reduce and mitigate disease burden in Uganda and beyond. They reiterated the importance of such high-tech research labs in preventing, detecting and responding to healthcare challenges and biologic threats.

The guests also visited the renovated and remodeled space where the HIV drug resistance and reservoir labs are to be established. Dr. Mwebaza informed the guests about the need for an HIV drug resistance testing facility as it ensures patients are given medications that are pharmacologically effective against the strain of HIV they have.

HPLC Mass spectrometry in the Biomarker Discovery lab

Such lab is crucial for mitigating the spread of antimicrobial resistance, and it is one step towards personalized HIV treatment in Uganda. He also informed the guests that by establishing facilities that conducts research on HIV reservoirs, MakBRC is positioning Ugandan Scientists to be part of the quest for the HIV cure.

 By MakBRC Public Relations

Infrastructure Support: Anatomy Department Renovations

Aim: To create a first-class embalming center in the Anatomy department for quality holistic services in Uganda.
The project funder: MakBRC
Contractor: Loyal contractors

MakBRC – Infrastructure Support: Pathology Department Renovations

Aim: To give the department a desperately needed face-lift.
The project funder: MakBRC
Contractor: Loyal contractors

Prof. Moses L Joloba Hands Over Dean's Office School of Biomedical Sciences to Associate Prof. David P Kateete — November 27th, 2023. Prof. Moses L. Joloba (Right) Hands Over Dean’s Office School of Biomedical Sciences to Associate Prof. David P Kateete (Left)

In a ceremonious transition, Prof. Moses L. Joloba, the Managing Director of Makerere University Biomedical Research Center (MakBRC), bid farewell to his role as the Dean of the School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University. The distinguished baton has been passed on to Associate Prof. David P. Kateete, marking a significant shift in the leadership landscape of the institution.

The handover ceremony was a testament to the commitment and dedication exhibited by Prof. Joloba during his tenure. With an illustrious career marked by pioneering research, academic excellence, and administrative prowess, Prof. Joloba steered the School of Biomedical Sciences toward remarkable achievements and global recognition.

Under his stewardship, the School witnessed a transformative period marked by innovative research initiatives, capacity-building programs, collaborations, and a commitment to advancing biomedical sciences. Prof. Joloba’s strategic vision and unwavering commitment to academic excellence have left an indelible mark on the institution’s legacy.

Expressing gratitude for the trust and support bestowed upon him during his tenure, Prof. Joloba emphasized the collective efforts of the faculty, staff, and students that propelled the School’s accomplishments. He conveyed his confidence in the capable leadership of Associate Prof. Kateete and extended his best wishes for the continued growth and success of the School of Biomedical Sciences.

Incoming Dean, Associate Prof. David P. Kateete, brings with him a wealth of experience and a stellar academic background. His expertise in biomedical sciences and a passion for education and research position him as a formidable successor poised to lead the School toward new horizons of excellence.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Associate Prof. Kateete acknowledged the legacy left by Prof. Joloba. He articulated his commitment to building upon the foundation laid by his predecessor, fostering a culture of innovation, and nurturing a conducive environment for academic and research pursuits.

The transition marks an exciting chapter in the School of Biomedical Sciences’ journey, heralding continuity in pursuing academic distinction and groundbreaking research initiatives. As the baton changes hands, the school anticipates continued growth and contributions to the entire Makerere University community under the capable leadership of Associate Prof. Kateete.

The handover ceremony stands as a testament to the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and signifies a seamless transition towards an even brighter future for biomedical research and education at Makerere University.

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Insights from Dr. Yin Ye’s Lecture

Highlights of the Event:

Additional Activities:

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Prof. Moses L. Joloba Hands Over Dean’s Office

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Insights from Dr. Yin Ye’s Lecture

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