Use of Next Generation Sequencing in the diagnostics and surveillance of drug resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB)​

In this webinar, Dr. Rob Warren will talk about:

• How Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) can help in addressing challenges faced with DR-TB;
  
• Differences between targeted Sequencing and Whole Genome Sequencing;
  
• His current research and available assays;
  
• Advantages & shortcomings of NGS in DR-TB 
  
• Considerations for implementation in routine in low and middle-income countries

Rob Warren obtained a PhD degree in Biochemistry from the University of Cape Town in 1995 and subsequently joined the Department of Medical Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University (SU). He was appointed as Professor in the Department in 2015.

He is currently the unit director of the South African Medical Research Council’s Centre for Tuberculosis Research. Under his guidance the study of the molecular epidemiology of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a high incidence setting (Cape Town, South Africa) was brought to the forefront of international tuberculosis research. This study now represents the largest molecular epidemiological data set in the developing world and has been referred to as a national heritage. Much of this work has provided new understanding, which has allowed long standing dogmas to be challenged. He has  published more than 350 papers in international peer reviewed journals in the fields of molecular epidemiology, drug resistance and bacterial evolution.

Speaker:

Dr. Rob Warren, PhD
Unit Director
South African Medical Research Council’s Centre for Tuberculosis Research