Robyn Barlow

I am a Genetic Counselling Intern employed by the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) as part of the Division of Human Genetics at the University of Cape Town (UCT). I am passionate about building relationships with patients as we journey through difficult diagnoses and challenging circumstances and strive to make their experiences a little easier.

 I did a BSc undergraduate degree at the University of Pretoria followed by a BSc Honours in Human Genetics at the University of the Witwatersrand. I subsequently ventured to beautiful Cape Town to complete my MMedSc Genetic Counselling in 2019-2020.

 My research interests include more tangible applications of genetics toward public health—those that are more familiar and my applicable to the layman. My master’s research project focused on the application of Discovery Health’s MyFamilyHistory tool and the role of family health history in the stratification of personal disease risks.

 I am always keen on any adventure and spend plenty of time in the car discovering quaint towns, beautiful views and new places. I am an avid hockey player and spend a substantial amount of time on the tennis court too.

 I am constantly challenged and motivated by the ever-changing field of genetics and aspire to be the patient’s voice in a very science-driven field.