51³Ô¹ÏÍø

Researchers from 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s Centre for Bacterial Resistance Biology (CBRB) hosted colleagues from the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) as part of an 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Global Connect–funded visit aimed at strengthening collaboration on bacterial antimicrobial resistance research.

CBRB scientists recently welcomed colleagues from the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) as part of an 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Global Connect award designed to build new international research partnerships. 

The visit focused on strengthening links between the two centres and identifying shared areas of expertise in bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly in discovery research, where both groups have strong complementary strengths. 

The programme included a series of seminars from WACCBIP researchers, showcasing their work to members of the CBRB, followed by a networking lunch designed to encourage informal exchange. 

Over three days, the visit continued with six focused workshops attended by around 15–20 researchers each. These sessions brought together scientists working on specific themes, including  laboratory models of bacterial infection, human models, vaccines and therapeutics, and priority bacterial pathogens. 

The workshops provided space for detailed discussion and helped identify areas where future collaboration could be developed. 

‘For countries to reach their fullest research aspirations and development goals, discovery research becomes increasingly important, to build cohorts of scientists who are trained and ready to respond to new challenges as they arise.’  Professor Shiranee Sriskandan Co-director of the CBRB

The collaboration centres on antimicrobial resistance, with both institutions contributing complementary expertise in discovery science. 

Researchers highlighted that this area is a particular strength for both WACCBIP and CBRB, and one where closer collaboration could help accelerate new insights into bacterial infection and resistance. 

The visit laid the groundwork for potential joint initiatives, including a bilateral PhD studentship scheme with extended research exchanges between Ghana and 51³Ô¹ÏÍø. 

It also provided a platform for developing future collaborative research projects between the two institutions. 

The visit was supported by the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Global Connect fund, which aims to strengthen international research partnerships across 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s global hubs. 

As part of the programme, CBRB researchers will also return to Accra in July to continue discussions and further develop collaboration. 

Professor Shiranee Sriskandan, Co-director of the CBRB, said: ‘Funding for research in low and middle income countries understandably focuses on research that is immediately translational, for example, healthcare interventions which are highly impactful in the short term. For countries to reach their fullest research aspirations and development goals, discovery research becomes increasingly important, to build cohorts of scientists who are trained and ready to respond to new challenges as they arise.’ 

Professor Sriskandan added that Global Connect funding plays a key role in enabling partners to meet in person and build the foundations for long-term collaboration. 

‘The 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Global Connect Fund provided a unique opportunity to build new connections between WACCBIP and CBRB, share expertise, and explore future collaborations to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR).' Professor Mariagrazia Pizza Co-director of the CBRB

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening discovery-led research in antimicrobial resistance and supporting long-term scientific capacity building between the UK and West Africa. 

Professor Mariagrazia Pizza, Co-director of the CBRB, said: ‘The 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Global Connect Fund provided a unique opportunity to build new connections between WACCBIP and CBRB, share expertise, and explore future collaborations to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR). These kinds of international partnerships are key not only to drive innovation, but also to build research capacity and prepare the next generation of AMR scientists to address future global health challenges.’