Blog – Page 2 – MyAfroDNA

Aug

August 25, 2025

Job Opening: Field Application Scientist at MyAfroDNA

Location: Port Harcourt, Nigeria (Hybrid)
Organization: MyAfroDNA – Advancing African Genomics and Molecular Research
Type: Full-time | Contract | Onsite

About Us

MyAfroDNA is a pioneering biotech dedicated to providing African biospecimens, molecular testing, and CRO services to support global research, public health, and innovation. From paternity testing to biospecimen analysis, we are committed to delivering high-quality scientific services.

Role Overview

We are looking for a dynamic Field Application Scientist to serve as a liason between our laboratory team and external stakeholders. This role is ideal for someone passionate about genomics, diagnostics, and community-focused science, with a talent for building relationships, developing partnerships, and driving client engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Promote MyAfroDNA’s services to research institutions, hospitals, NGOs, and private clients.

Identify and develop partnerships with universities, labs, and health organizations.

Conduct field visits to introduce our services and collect feedback.

Represent MyAfroDNA at events, conferences, and local exhibitions.

Collaborate with the product team to ensure client needs inform service development.

Provide input on marketing strategy from a scientific and community-focused lens.

Requirements

Background in Biology, Biotechnology, Public Health, or a related field.

Strong communication, networking, and presentation skills.

Familiarity with molecular testing and biospecimen collection.

Experience working with communities, NGOs, or research teams is a plus.

Willingness to travel within Nigeria and beyond as needed.

Bonus Skills

Community Engagement

Experience with grant writing or science communication

Previous work in a startup or research outreach

How to Apply

Please complete the application form using this link and upload your CV and cover letter.

Aug

August 6, 2025

Admin Genome sequencing, genomics research

Genomic Diversity in Neonatal E. coli in Malawi Raises Vaccine Design Concerns

A comprehensive genomic study of 208 neonatal Escherichia coli isolates collected from 2012 to 2021 at a major hospital in Blantyre, Malawi found extensive diversity in sequence types (STs), O‑antigens, and H‑antigens among strains causing invasive disease . Genomes from 169 isolates passed quality control and revealed 71 distinct STs, including 11 previously unreported types; over half of STs were observed only once . Among common lineages, ST69, ST131, ST10, and ST410 were most frequent, with ST410 highly enriched in cerebrospinal fluid samples suggesting invasive potential .

Researchers also catalogued 63 O‑antigen types—none exceeding 10% prevalence—and 34 H‑types, with only a handful appearing in more than one year. Notably, serotypes O15, O25B, and O8 appeared most often but no type dominated across years .

Using theoretical vaccine coverage models, the study shows that existing vaccine candidates like EXPEC4V or EXPEC9V would leave a large proportion of isolates unprotected. Crucially, the removal of O8 from some vaccine formulations could significantly reduce coverage in this setting .

Additionally, high resistance rates were observed: over 90% of strains demonstrated resistance to co‑trimoxazole, and many were multidrug resistant; yet meropenem resistance remained rare. Only amikacin and carbapenems remained reliable options in severe cases .

Implications for vaccine design in sub‑Saharan Africa: The extraordinary antigenic diversity among neonatal E. coli in Malawi presents a significant obstacle to one‑size‑fits‑all O‑antigen vaccines. The authors recommend vaccine strategies tailored to local serotype ecology and genetic surveillance integrated into design efforts.

Unlocking Africa’s Bioeconomy Through Genomics & Bioinformatics

A new study published by our partners, the AfricaBP Open Institute, showcases transformative efforts to harness biodiversity genomics and bioinformatics to drive a sustainable African bioeconomy.

The Africa BioGenome Project (AfricaBP) aims to sequence 105,000 non‑human genomes across Africa, spanning plants, animals, fungi, and protozoa, to support food security, conservation, and biotech innovation. To bridge capacity gaps, the AfricaBP Open Institute organized 31 hands‑on regional workshops in 2024 across five geographic regions, engaging participants from over 50 African countries. These sessions trained 401 African researchers in genome sequencing, gene editing, bioinformatics, molecular biology, ethics, and biobanking, strengthening local research infrastructure and skills.

A highlight case study: the proposed “1000 Moroccan Genome Project,” which illustrates economic returns from local genome sequencing. Analysis shows that a US$20 million investment over 10 years could yield US$40 million in discounted benefits and deliver a benefit–cost ratio (BCR) of 3.29—meaning every dollar invested returns more than three dollars in value—particularly across agriculture, R&D, education, and downstream sectors.

Key recommendations emerge: integrate biodiversity genomics and bioinformatics into national bioeconomy strategies, expand capacity‑building initiatives, build regional sequencing hubs, and foster ethical, inclusive data-sharing policies. Strategic investment in these domains positions African nations to capitalize on their unique biodiversity and reclaim ownership of genomic science—a powerful lever toward sustainable development and regional innovation rooted in African knowledge and priorities .

In short, AfricaBP’s model provides a scalable path for leveraging genomic science to fuel a resilient, inclusive African bioeconomy driven by regional talent and locally generated data. Read more here.

Jul

July 28, 2025

Admin african biobank, genomics research, myafrodna

Ancient Egyptian Genome Reveals Roots to Mesopotamia

A landmark discovery, scientists have sequenced the genome of a man buried around 4,500–4,800 years ago at Nuwayrat in Middle Egypt, marking the oldest complete genome ever recovered from the region. Likely a potter in his 60s, the man was buried in a sealed ceramic jar carved into rock, a burial that helped preserve his DNA despite Egypt’s harsh climate.

This genome confirms ancient people-to-people contact between Egypt and Mesopotamia, echoing archaeological evidence of shared pottery styles and writing systems. The Nile likely served not just as a trade route for goods and ideas, but for human migration too.

The discovery demonstrates that DNA preservation is possible and important to build a clearer understanding of Africa's genetic history.

Learn more about this research here: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-02102-y

Jul

July 14, 2025

Admin

Africa’s Immune Genetic Diversity Demands Data Representation for Improved Tailored Vaccine

Although Africa is the most genetically diverse region on Earth, it remains underrepresented in global immunogenetic databases, particularly for high-resolution Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) data critical to immune response and vaccine design.

In a new study, researchers analyzed HLA Class I profiles from South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Zambia. They found significant genetic differences not only between countries but also among ethnic groups within the same country. These comparisons with African American and European American populations confirmed that Africa’s HLA diversity is too unique for U.S.-based data to guide T-cell vaccine design.

The findings call for urgent investment in Africa-specific immunogenetic data to ensure vaccines are both effective and equitable. As the world pivots to T-cell-inducing vaccines, representing Africa’s true genetic data becomes a global health priority.

Invasive Malaria Mosquito An. stephensi Detected in Niger Raising Alarm for Sahel-wide Spread

For the first time, researchers have detected the invasive Anopheles stephensi mosquito in Gayi, a rural area in southern Niger Republic — a country already grappling with one of the world’s highest malaria mortality rates.
Genetic analysis confirmed its presence alongside native malaria vectors such as An. gambiae s.s., An. coluzzii, and An. arabiensis. The coexistence of these species has resulted in elevated biting and transmission rates, aligning with the surge in malaria cases reported in 2024.

Experts warn that without immediate investment in robust surveillance, targeted vector control, and regional collaboration, An. stephensi could spread rapidly across the Sahel and beyond. Its presence poses a serious threat to malaria control efforts, especially in vulnerable regions bordering Niger. Urgent action is needed to contain its spread and mitigate its public health impact across Africa.

Learn more: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-07389-5

Jul

July 5, 2025

Admin african biobank, Gene editing, genomics research

New Hope in The Fight Against Antibiotic Resistance

After years of stalled progress, the fight against antibiotic resistance is gaining momentum. Scientists are now exploring new ways to treat infections without relying solely on traditional antibiotics, a major shift that could reshape how we manage bacterial diseases worldwide.

Thanks to support from organizations like CARB-X and GARDP, researchers are pushing forward alternatives that were once considered too risky or radical. These include therapies like bacteriophages (viruses that infect bacteria), enzymes called lysins that break down bacterial walls, and even treatments that adjust the body’s natural microbiome.

Some scientists are testing immune-based approaches and CRISPR technology to target bacteria more precisely. These ideas are still early in development, but the growing investment and interest show a renewed belief that we don’t have to stay trapped in the old cycle of resistance.
The hope is that these innovative treatments, along with better diagnostic tools and smarter trial designs, could one day offer safer, more sustainable ways to fight deadly infections, especially as antibiotic resistance continues to rise.

This shift marks a new chapter in global health, where innovation may finally help turn the tide against superbugs.
Learn more here.

Jun

June 9, 2025

Admin african biobank, genomics research

New Study Uncovers a Reversible Mechanism in TB Bacteria

New research from the University of Surrey and the University of Oxford has uncovered a reversible mechanism in TB bacteria that may explain why the disease is so hard to treat.

The study shows that Mycobacterium tuberculosis uses a process called ADP-ribosylation to tag its DNA, allowing it to pause or resume growth—a possible survival tactic against antibiotics and immune attacks. The enzymes DarT and DarG act like a molecular switch: DarT adds the tag and halts replication, while DarG removes it to restart bacterial growth.

This discovery marks the first time DNA modification has been shown to control gene expression and replication in any organism.

By manipulating this system using CRISPRi and ADPr-Seq, scientists were able to track how these tags affect gene activity and cell division, offering a new target for drug development, especially against dormant or slow-growing TB cells. With over 1.25 million deaths annually, breakthroughs like this could reshape how we treat one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases. Learn more here.

May

May 25, 2025

Admin african biobank, African genetics, dna, Genome sequencing

Revealing Morocco’s Genetic Diversity for Better Healthcare

The Moroccan Genome Project (MGP) sequenced 109 Moroccan genomes, uncovering over 27 million genetic variants, including 1.4 million new ones. This research introduces the Moroccan Major Allele Reference Genome (MMARG), providing a more accurate representation of Moroccan genetic diversity compared to global references.

By identifying unique genetic variants, MGP aims to improve precision medicine, addressing healthcare disparities for Moroccans and North Africans, especially in diseases like kidney disease, heart conditions, and diabetes.

This initiative builds on Morocco's rich genetic history and aims to create a more comprehensive genomic reference for North Africa, paving the way for better healthcare and research in the region.

Learn more here

May

May 19, 2025

Admin

New Insights Into Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) in African Patients

A groundbreaking study on patients from Angola and Cape Verde has significantly expanded our understanding of TNBC in Sub-Saharan Africa. By sequencing both coding and regulatory regions, researchers found a higher somatic mutation burden compared to other global cohorts, with 86% of variants previously unreported.

Key findings include:

17% of mutations likely have damaging effects at the protein level.

20% overlap with gene regulatory regions.

TP53 remains the top driver gene, but novel candidates like TTN, EACAM7, DEFB132, COPZ2, and GAS1 were also identified.

These discoveries highlight the urgent need for more inclusive cancer genomics research, especially across the highly diverse African continent.

Learn more: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-94707-6

Previous page 1 2 3 Next page

Diversifying Translational and Genomics Research

Category Archives: Blog