Munya Musvosvi completed his PhD and post-doctoral fellowship at the South African Tuberculosis Vaccine Initiative based at the University of Cape Town. His research has focused on understanding T cell responses to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M,tb) with the goal of using these insights to inform tuberculosis (TB) vaccine design and TB biomarkers. In my current role, my research efforts are focused on developing a microfluidic device to  automatically process blood samples for flow cytometry analysis. I am also involved in research efforts that aim to develop a novel mRNA TB vaccine we designed in South Africa.

What inspired you to apply to the LDP or what are you looking forward to with the LDP?

A goal is to establish a biotechnology company that will advance human health by creating an immune monitoring platform that will automate sample processing and analysis. The International Innovators program is a perfect opportunity to help me realise my goal. Through this program I will engage with ISAC members, especially forming networks with other colleagues in the International Innovators Program will be very valuable. I am also drawn to this program because it offers access to invaluable opportunities with experts in technology translation and funding opportunities. I hope to draw from the wealth of knowledge from my colleagues and these experts during my journey of entrepreneurship. 

How did you get into Cytometry?

I got into cytometry during my post-graduate project, which was developing HLA-class II tetramers targeting M.tb-specific T cells. The focus was developing tetramers specific for Ag85B and ESAT-6, two immunodominant M.tb antigens. Utilising these tetramers, I was able to sort Ag85B and ESAT-6-specific CD4 T cells following vaccination and perform transcriptomic analyses. Through this project, I was able to gain an appreciation of the power of cytometry.