Message from the DRC Chair

The School of Public Health is home to a diverse and dynamic community of passionate researchers, students and partners whose work contributes to addressing important public health challenges in South Africa and globally. It is a privilege for the Departmental Research Committee (DRC) to have a view across this breadth of work and to support the people and ideas that drive it. 

The DRC is committed to creating an environment in which research can flourish while upholding the highest standards of scientific integrity, ethics and safety. We support staff and students as they navigate their research journeys and provide a space for researchers to connect, share ideas and engage with opportunities across the School.  We do this through the review of research protocols, providing guidance and advice to students and staff on evolving research processes within the University and beyond, and creating opportunities for researchers to connect, share ideas and learn from one another. We coordinate the School’s annual research event as well as relevant seminars and other research activities throughout the year.

Our work is ultimately guided by a shared purpose: to support research that is meaningful, responsible and contributes to a healthier world. Keep coming back to DRC webpage for updates and opportunities throughout the year. We look forward to supporting your research journey.

Patience Nyakato

Read the SPH DRC Terms of Reference here

Meet the Chairs

The School of Public Health Department Research Committee (DRC) provides guidance and support to staff and students on all research related activities to ensure compliance with UCT's Faculty of Health Sciences Procedures as outlined in the Guidance document for DRC Members.

What makes our research community special? Diverse voices Diverse perspectives. Shared purpose for public health impact.

Across the School of Public Health, researchers, academics and colleagues bring different experiences, perspectives and areas of expertise to the pursuit of better health for all. While our research questions and approaches may differ, we share a commitment to generating knowledge that helps us better understand the world around us and address the public health challenges that affect our communities.

In this video, members of the School share, in their own words, what research means to them and introduce the work undertaken within their respective divisions and research units. Their reflections offer a glimpse into the diversity of ideas, disciplines and experiences that shape public health research at the School.

From asking questions and exploring evidence to understanding communities and informing action, research takes many forms. Together, these different perspectives demonstrate how our collective work contributes to advancing knowledge, strengthening public health and creating opportunities for meaningful change.

Watch, discover and see public health through our eyes.