IAS – Towards an HIV Cure

Future innovators meeting global leaders in HIV research

Dr. Hussein Mti Jumanne, a 2-year PhD student in the Division of Infection and Immunity, was selected to participate in the 2026 Research‑for‑Cure Academy, organized by the International AIDS Society (IAS) – Towards an HIV Cure team. The program was held 4–6 June 2026 at the Wits Rural Facility in Mpumalanga, South Africa, and brought together early‑ to mid‑career HIV researchers from across the African region. Through competitive selection, participants received intensive training, mentorship, and opportunities for scientific exchange with global leaders in HIV cure research.

1.    Why I Applied for the Scholarship

I applied to this program because, given the current global agenda on HIV cure and vaccine development, it is highly recommended for every researcher working in the HIV field to get up-to-date information regarding success, gaps, and challenges towards HIV-cure.

Dr. Hussein Mti Jumanne

2.    My Reaction When I Received the Acceptance Notice

I was fascinated by the outcome of this competitive opportunity, knowing that out of 201 applicants from 32 African countries, I was selected among 13 participants for the 2026 cohort.

3.    About the 2026 Research‑for‑Cure Academy

The academy was intended to provide training on state-of-the-art HIV cure research, practical tools to pursue and engage in HIV cure research, grant writing skills, and engagement with global leaders in HIV-cure research

4.    My Presentation and Participation

I described how the emergence of complex and second-generation HIV-1 recombinant forms continues to pose a challenge and limit durable HIV vaccine and cure strategies. I received meaningful feedback through a series of presentations and discussions from the academy participants

5.    What I Gained from This Experience

Participating in the IAS Research for the Cure Academy had a profound impact on my professional growth. I observed cutting‑edge global HIV‑cure research, gaining a clear understanding of current successes, persistent gaps, and the limitations shaping the field. The program also strengthened my grant‑writing skills and expanded my academic and research network in meaningful ways. Most importantly, it equipped me with a solid grasp of the key research gaps that I am eager to pursue through future collaborations with peers and mentors from the academy.

With Dr. Steve Deeks, a global expert in HIV research

6.    Message to Students Aiming for International Opportunities

Remaining vigilant and passionate, performing and generating good experimental data, and seeking professional advice from an academic supervisor for meaningful engagement in international avenues is of paramount importance to create a network and future collaborations.  

7.    Acknowledgements

Special thanks to Dr Barabona, who encouraged me to apply to this opportunity during my overseas data collection trip. I am grateful to my academic supervisor for his ongoing support and permission to attend this workshop. Lastly, to all my lab members and my family, thank you very much.