Research

As a global leader in medical mycology, the MRC CMM tackles critical gaps in understanding and healthcare strategies for fungal infections. 

As a unit of the MRC CMM, based at the University of Cape Town (UCT), the CMM AFRICA Unit is committed to establishing research and training programmes that tackle priority fungal research that is relevant to the African continent. We are dedicated to leading world-class research and training, equipping the next generation of scientists and clinicians with the knowledge and skills to address fungal diseases.

Vision: To position Africa as a global leader in fungal disease research, sustainable innovation and evidence-based public health solutions.

Mission: To advance the understanding of fungal diseases through integrated basic and clinical research, translating discoveries in fungal biology and host–pathogen interactions into improved diagnostics, therapies, and patient outcomes.

Strategic Research Themes

i.   Host/pathogen interactions
ii.  Immune response to fungal infection
iii. Emerging pathogens and antifungal resistance
iv. Disease epidemiology and clinical management; Biomarkers, diagnostics, and therapeutics

Research Agenda

Cryptococcosis Pneumocystosis Candidiasis Endemic thermally-dimorphic fungal pathogens (e.g. emergomycosis, histoplasmosis, sporotrichosis, blastomycosis) Co-infections with fungal pathogens