Bellicia Disashi Kamwanya
- Country of Origin: Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Home University: Institut National de Recherche Biomedicale
- Host University & Country: Keele University - United Kingdom
- PhD Title: Investigation of protein targeting to and release from dense granules in the malaria parasite Plasmodium Falciparum
- Year of Completion: 2028
PhD Overview
Determining how the malaria parasite, Plasmodium, can survive and multiply within the host’s cells (erythrocytes) is essential to comprehending and treating malaria. Dense granules (DGs), the least studied of the three secretory organelles present in Plasmodium parasites, secrete proteins that are involved in remodeling the intracellular environment of the erythrocytes, a crucial phenomenon for parasite survival and pathogenicity. However, the precise timing, regulation, and localisation of DG release and its coordination with other organelles (micronemes and rhoptries) are still unclear. Therefore, my research aims to investigate the fundamental properties of DGs in Plasmodium.
Sustainability Goals
- Good Health and Well-being
- No Poverty
About Me
I have over 5 years of experience in research, investigating numerous infectious (viral and parasitic) diseases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. As a Chevening alumna with strong leadership, I am committed to promoting girls and women in STEM in the DRC, mainly through the Ces Femmes in STEM association.