The Microbial Interaction Laboratory (MIL) at the University of Cape Town is dedicated to advancing microbiome research across Africa, addressing the underrepresentation of African microbiomes in global studies. By fostering innovation and collaboration amongst researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers, the MIL aims to build a dynamic research ecosystem.
The laboratory offers state-of-the-art facilities and services, including microbiome profiling, metagenomic analysis, and educational workshops. It also leads key initiatives such as the VIRGO-Africa database and the African Reference Genome Initiative, providing valuable resources for characterising microbial communities and their health implications. Committed to ethical and inclusive research, the MIL adheres to the Nagoya Protocol, ensuring fair benefit-sharing and community involvement in microbiome studies. Through these efforts, the MIL is shaping the future of microbiome science in Africa and beyond.

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