Pedro Moura-Alves, the ImmunoHUB ERA Chair holder, hosted Dr. Jackson Marakalala (Africa Health Research Institute, South Africa) a world-renowned scientist, known for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of infectious diseases. Dr. Marakalala’s visit to i3S, on March 22nd was a great moment for the institute, as several researchers gathered to engage in a dynamic exchange of ideas and expertise.
During his visit, Dr. Marakalala presented a seminar titled “Inflammatory mediators of TB granuloma caseation.” Drawing on his outstanding work, he elucidated the complex mechanisms underlying the immune system’s response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection.
Furthermore, Dr. Marakalala also gave a lecture at the MCBiology Infection and Immunity course and led a mentoring session with early-career researchers, discussing science, career paths, and work-life balance. Attendees described Dr. Marakalala’s visit as an excellent experience, emphasizing the unique opportunity to interact with a field leader and gain new perspectives on pressing research questions. Many researchers expressed optimism about the potential for future collaborations and partnerships to emerge from Dr. Marakalala’s visit, further enriching i3S’s multidisciplinary research ecosystem.
