Employing (Home) Organisation: Pasteur Institute in Madagascar
Project title: Enhancing biosignatures research capacity development in tuberculosis infection
I am a researcher at the Mycobacteria Unit of the Pasteur Institute in Madagascar (IPM), holding a PhD in LifeSciences from the University of Antananarivo. My research focuses on tuberculosis (TB) diagnostics, treatment monitoring, drug resistance, and host immune responses. Inspired by the global burden of TB and the need for improved diagnostic tools, I aim to enhance biosignature research capacity through the AREF Award. I intend to leverage high-throughput technologies to advance TB diagnosis and treatment monitoring, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Summary of Project Destination
TB remains a major global health challenge, particularly in Madagascar, where diagnostic and treatment monitoring tools are limited. My AREF project aims to identify immune biosignatures associated with TB infection, progression, and treatment response using high-throughput technologies, such as Simoa SP-X, Meso Scale Discovery and digital PCR. By applying these high-throughput and ultrasensitive assays to clinical samples, I seek to uncover biomarkers that can improve TB diagnosis and monitoring. After the fellowship, I plan to establish biosignature-based diagnostic and monitoring strategies at the Pasteur Institute in Madagascar. This initiative will strengthen local research capacity and inform national TB control policies.
Summary of Fellowship Plan
During the fellowship, I will be based at the Centre d’Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (Cimi) in France, collaborating with leading experts in immunology and infectious diseases. I will acquire advanced skills in high-throughput technologies such as Simoa SP-X, Meso Scale Discovery, and digital PCR, as well as in statistical data analysis and research leadership. IPM will facilitate the integration of these new technologies, fostering local capacity building and the development of biosignature-based diagnostic tools to enhance TB diagnosis and treatment monitoring in Madagascar.
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“My fellowship placement will enhance my research capacity in TB biosignatures and support my professional development as an independent researcher.”
Dr. Paulo RANAIVOMANANA expects to start his fellowship in July 2025