The 16th Annual Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform (BRIP) Conference, hosted by the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) from 27–29 October 2026, brought together emerging scientists, leading experts and key stakeholders under the theme: “African Youth Shaping the Health of the Continent: Innovations in Biomedical Research, Mental and Climate Health.”

The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), together with the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) and Biovac, convened the "Advancing Trial Excellence: Site Successes, Challenges and Lessons Learnt" meeting for the IVI Biovac OCV-S 001 Oral Cholera Vaccine Study at the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town on 29-30 October 2026

The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Genomics Platform has received its very first LabGreen Africa Recycling Impact Certificate. The certificate recognises the more than 180kg of plastic laboratory tip boxes the platform has recycled in just six months, instead of sending them to landfills

Stroke is often perceived as a medical issue that belongs only in hospitals and neurology clinics. In reality, it is increasingly becoming an economic and development challenge that affects labour markets, social protection systems, health budgets and national productivity. The growing burden of stroke threatens progress toward sustainable development goals and poses a particular challenge for low- and middle-income countries, where health systems are already under strain.

Health research must translate into better care for patients and communities, particularly those facing the greatest barriers to accessing services. This was the central message from South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Vice-President of Extramural Research and Internal Portfolio (ERIP), Prof Liesl Zühlke during a public lecture at Nelson Mandela University on 16 October 2026