Dr. Chijioke Umunnakwe (CJ) earned his PhD in Genetics and Bioinformatics from Iowa State University, USA in 2014 and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the NIH in 2020, focusing on HIV molecular virology. He is currently a Senior Research Scientist at Ndlovu Research Department in rural Limpopo, South Africa. CJ collaborates with University Medical Center (UMC) Utrecht, Netherlands to leverage resources for expanding research capacity in resource-limited communities. His research includes HIV treatment, drug resistance monitoring, HIV reservoir and cure studies.
What sparked your interest in genetics and bioinformatics during your academic journey?
The idea that the immense complexity of life stems from just a few nucleotides captivated me. Understanding how genes function and interact felt like unlocking the blueprint of life itself. Growing up during the HIV/AIDS epidemic, I saw first-hand its impact, which fuelled my passion for genetics as a tool to combat infectious diseases. I initially pursued Biology and Computer Information Systems, seeking a way to combine them. Bioinformatics, then an emerging field, was a perfect fit, leading me to Iowa State University’s PhD program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology.
What motivated you to pursue postdoctoral research in molecular virology, particularly in the field of HIV dynamics and replication?
During my PhD training, I always aspired to have my own research group where I independently pursued HIV research topics of personal interest. Growing up in Botswana at the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, I witnessed its devastating societal impact. This fuelled my ambition to contribute meaningfully to the fight against HIV. Aspiring to lead my own research group, I knew postdoctoral training was essential. Joining Dr. Wei-Shau Hu’s HIV Dynamics and Replication Program at NIH was a pivotal moment that refined my research focus and expanded my expertise in molecular virology.
During your postdoctoral fellowship at NIH, what was the most significant challenge you faced in studying HIV expression, trafficking, and assembly?
One of the most technical challenges was establishing mammalian cell lines expressing two distinct types of HIV proviruses with different genome expression pathways. This intricate process required extensive troubleshooting, but I was fortunate to have a supportive mentor and collaborative colleagues. Their guidance helped me succeed, and the lab now utilizes this cell line to further investigate HIV gene expression, trafficking, and assembly. Another major challenge was ensuring that these engineered cell lines maintained stability over time while producing reliable data, as small variations in culture conditions could significantly impact results. Overcoming these obstacles not only advanced our understanding of HIV replication but also contributed to the development of more effective antiviral strategies.
How has your research contributed to potential applications in resource-limited settings?
Science rarely delivers sudden “Eureka” moments; instead, progress comes through incremental discoveries. My work on HIV genome expression identified key therapeutic targets, influencing my focus on clinical applications tailored to underserved populations. This highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the need for practical, scalable solutions. Public health strategies must extend beyond disease treatment. Addressing core infrastructural issues such as clean water, electricity, and food security is essential for any meaningful progress. To be truly impactful, scientific research must be community-driven and integrated into broader socio-economic improvements that empower local populations.
How has your research in resource-limited settings shaped your understanding of public health challenges, and how do you collaborate with institutions like UMC Utrecht to bridge research capacity gaps?
Working in rural South Africa has highlighted the severe lack of research infrastructure and local involvement in scientific initiatives. Public health is deeply connected to basic living conditions—without access to clean water, electricity, and food security, meaningful progress remains difficult. Addressing these foundational needs is crucial to improving healthcare outcomes. To help bridge research capacity gaps, my team collaborates with institutions like UMC Utrecht, combining resources and expertise in HIV research and public health. Through these partnerships, we also provide training programs for healthcare workers, strengthening local capacity in disease monitoring and management. These efforts aim to build self-sustaining scientific initiatives that empower local communities rather than relying solely on external interventions.
As an African biologist who studied abroad and returned home, how do you inspire and mentor young scientists in Africa?
Mentorship is a core priority. Through collaborations with organizations like the African Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS), we provide hands-on training in molecular biology and genomics, along with professional development workshops. I also supervise research assistants and graduate students at the University of Pretoria, guiding them in both technical skills and career development. By supporting and training aspiring scientists, we help build a strong foundation for future African-led research and innovation. I also advocate for increased investment in scientific education and research infrastructure, emphasizing the need to create more opportunities for young African scientists to thrive in their home countries.
What advice would you give to African students and researchers aspiring to build impactful careers in genetics, bioinformatics, or molecular virology?
My advice would be slightly unorthodox in that I would suggest investing their talent towards building and expanding scientific capacity within Africa rather than committing their skills in high-income settings. Most of our most talented students and researchers end up living and working in developed countries, understandably so for higher standards of living. However, scientific capacity is saturated in such settings while many African settings languish and lag far behind scientifically and technologically, which further exacerbates extreme global disparities. Rather than seeking opportunities abroad, African scientists should focus on strengthening research capacity on the continent. The global research landscape is saturated in developed countries, whereas Africa urgently needs scientific innovation. Whether through academia, biotech start-ups, or non-profits, investing expertise locally can drive sustainable progress.
How do you balance your roles as a researcher, mentor, and advocate while ensuring your work benefits the communities you serve?
Balancing multiple roles requires prioritization and a strong commitment to translating research into public health impact. Beyond laboratory work, I engage directly with communities, integrating their perspectives into research design. Partnerships with policymakers and local organizations help ensure that scientific findings lead to practical and sustainable health solutions. Community-driven research fosters trust and leads to interventions that are both effective and culturally relevant. By regularly consulting with local healthcare providers and community leaders, I ensure that my research remains aligned with the real-world challenges faced by those I aim to support.
How can African scientists better leverage global research resources to drive innovations in their fields?
African scientists should actively pursue international grants, training programs, and collaborations with institutions that align with local empowerment rather than profit-driven motives. Strengthening ties with underutilized research partners, including BRICS nations, could provide new opportunities for funding and capacity building. By strategically positioning themselves in the evolving global research landscape, African researchers can maximize opportunities for sustainable innovation. Additionally, I encourage African governments and private sector stakeholders to increase investments in home-grown research initiatives, fostering an environment where scientific breakthroughs can flourish locally rather than being outsourced to foreign institutions.
Interview by Faith Oluwamakinde
