Biography

I am a dedicated researcher with nine years of experience in physiological sciences, oncology, and molecular biology. I recently completed my PhD in Physiological Sciences at Stellenbosch University, where I investigated the functional impact of a rare TP53 germline variant identified in breast cancer patients. My research assessed its effects on cell proliferation, cell death, senescence, migration, immune destruction, and coagulation using a translational ex vivo model. In addition, I established a 3D co-culture system by isolating peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients to evaluate their impact on breast cancer spheroids. I also contributed to the development of a functional genomics pipeline for the Pathology-Supported Genetic Testing framework in South Africa, enhancing the classification of rare variants and improving the clinical utility of whole-exome and genome sequencing in precision oncology. My passion lies in unravelling the molecular mechanisms driving cancer progression and treatment resistance, with the goal of advancing medical management and improving patient outcomes.