Marcin Kouri, Senior Director at Thermo Fisher Scientific, Middle East & Africa, shares insights into the landmark partnership with South Africa’s Medical Research Council to upskill the continent’s next generation of scientists and lab leaders.

 

In a visionary move to bridge academic theory with real-world scientific practice, Thermo Fisher Scientific has joined forces with the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), the Department of Health, and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation to establish the Centre for Advanced Training and Innovative Research (CATIR). 

 

In this exclusive BioSpectrum Jobs interview, Marcin Kouri, Senior Director for the Middle East & Africa at Thermo Fisher Scientific, explores how this groundbreaking initiative aims to foster homegrown scientific talent, boost local diagnostics capabilities, and lay a strong foundation for Africa’s resilient health systems of the future.

 

The Centre for Advanced Training and Innovative Research (CATIR) has been created through a partnership between Thermo Fisher Scientific, the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), and the Department of Health (DoH). Thermo Fisher will provide and endorse the training programs, offering students hands-on access to a wide range of its products, instruments, and services to help them develop new expertise and specialized skills. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed between Thermo Fisher and the SAMRC on June 10, 2023, outlining the provision of necessary consumables and instruments for the Centre, as well as student support including financial assistance and accommodation.

How does CATIR aim to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world applications for students and young scientists?

CATIR aims to bridge this gap by offering training in advanced molecular science and laboratory management, providing students with hands-on experience and exposure to world-class technology and state-of-the-art instruments. The program complements academic education with real-world skills, practical laboratory experience, and opportunities to build connections within global scientific networks. It also focuses on developing soft skills needed for managing laboratories such as budgeting and  will help students to gain skills and confidence in becoming effective decision-makers in their future scientific careers.

In what ways will the training programs offered at CATIR contribute to building a skilled pharma and diagnostics workforce across Africa?

The training programs at CATIR will support efforts to enhance rapid disease detection and response capacity, build local manufacturing and diagnostic capabilities, and train a the next generation of African scientists capable of developing local solutions for health challenges. By providing world-class training and equipment locally, CATIR aims to reduce the need for external placements and create career development pathways within Africa. This initiative will help address the skills gap in South African universities and labs, ensuring that Africa’s best minds drive innovation for African needs.

Will there be any job or internship opportunities for young professionals at Thermo Fisher or CATIR following training completion?

Thermo Fisher has a long-term presence in South Africa and employs around 500 people across the country. The training programs at CATIR are designed to equip students with skills that are highly valued in the scientific community, potentially opening doors for future employment and career development within Thermo Fisher and other organisations and institutions.

What message would you like to share with students and young researchers?

The Centre for Advanced Training and Innovative Research (CATIR) offers a unique opportunity to gain practical lab skills, theoretical knowledge, and exposure to advanced laboratory equipment and technologies. The comprehensive training courses cover molecular biology, genomics, lab management, and essential soft skills for leadership and operational excellence. By participating in CATIR, students and young researchers can build a robust pipeline of skilled talent for Africa’s scientific advancement, contributing to local health system resilience and pandemic preparedness.

 

Poonam Bhosale

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