Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform
The Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform (BRIP) was established in April 2006 by the South African Medical Research Council, as a spin-off from the former Diabetes Research Group of the Medical Research Council.
The BRIP has more than 20 years of experience in the field of histology, image analysis, immunocytochemistry, molecular biology and tissue/cell culture systems.
Key Focus Areas
The Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform (BRIP), in response to the strategic objectives of the SAMRC, conducts cutting-edge research and knowledge generation in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), innovative research to improve health outcomes, builds capacity in health research and adheres to good corporate governance. BRIP’s strategic objectives focus on:
- Conducting responsive research on key health challenges facing South Africa such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and its associated cardiovascular complications, using state-of-the-art methods to unravel the mechanisms that underlie these metabolic disorders and to identify therapeutic targets and biomarkers of disease risk.
- To identify therapeutics from within Africa’s indigenous resources, where BRIP has recently established an African Traditional Medicines (ATM) platform to serve as a pipeline for therapeutic screening in Africa.
- Developing new methodologies for detecting anti-retroviral (ARV) metabolites as emerging pollutants in the aquatic environment within the Wastewater Surveillance and Research Programme (WSRP).
- To map the genetic and epigenetic landscape of cancer in Africa.
Announcements
The Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform (BRIP) of the SAMRC hosted a delegation from Prof Lawrence Obi’s research group from the School of Science and Technology at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) for a strategic engagement on 25 February 2026. Researchers from both institutions presented their current projects, identified areas of scientific synergy, and explored opportunities for collaborative initiatives in biomedical research.
It gives us great pleasure to share that Bernie Groenewald, one of our PhD students, has been awarded third prize in the poster competition at this year’s SACCMA Conference hosted in Stellenbosch last week. According to their website, The Society for Advanced Cell Culture Modelling for Africa (SACCMA) is a professional network of researchers with an interest in creating and using specialized and advanced cell-based models, bioengineering, bioprinting and stem cell cultures to address developmental questions, study disease initiation and development, treatment screening and cell biology. Bernie’s poster, titled “Standardising spheroid cryosection: Is a one-approach fit the way to go?” impressed the judges with its scientific merit, clarity, and innovative approach to working with advanced cell cultures. The award is testament to the great work that Bernie is doing. His PhD project looks to establish a novel human corneal epithelial spheroid model that recapitulates diseases and damage of the corneal epithelium and can thus be used for the screening and development of new pharmaceutical products.
On 13–14 May 2025, the Division of Research Capacity Development, in collaboration with the Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, successfully hosted a two-day Soft Skills Workshop at the SAMRC Conference Centre. Facilitated by Dr Abeda Dawood and Dr Lindokuhle Ndlandla, the workshop welcomed approximately 30 attendees.
This dynamic and interactive workshop equipped young scientists from PUDAC, the Genomics platform, and BRIP with essential personal and professional development skills. Key focus areas included self-awareness, emotional intelligence, goal setting, time management, teamwork, leadership, communication, digital literacy, adaptability, resilience, and personal financial management.
The workshop forms part of RCD’s ongoing efforts to empower emerging researchers with practical tools for personal growth, professional effectiveness, and long-term success in their scientific careers.
A delegation from Vrije Universiteit Brussel visited the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) on the 22nd of April 2025 to explore potential future collaborations and to exchange insights on shared research priorities and areas of expertise.”
Conference & Symposium
Social
BRIP staff and students made significant contributions to the SAMRC World Diabetes (14th November 2024) and Health Awareness Walk (16th November 2024), demonstrating our commitment to promoting health and wellness. The events highlighted the importance of diabetes prevention, awareness, and healthy lifestyles, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Our participation underscores our dedication to supporting initiatives that empower individuals to take charge of their health and well-being.
“Heritage is generally defined as an acknowledgment of historical artifacts, practices, and sites that should be preserved for the benefit of future generations.”
BRIP celebrated the rich and diverse tapestry that makes up the team with our infamous “braai under the tree”. A time of sharing food, stories and everything that makes us PROUDLY South African. We are stronger together and are fortunate to stand on the shoulders of giants.
