Division of Medical Virology

The Division of Medical Virology comprises two sections: The academic section and the diagnostic section. 

The academic section is part of the Stellenbosch University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. The Division is involved in the teaching of under- and postgraduate students in medicine and health sciences and offers several postgraduate degree courses, from MMed via BSc Honours to research MSc and PhD. Postgraduate student research themes are mostly linked to ongoing research projects on several relevant virological topics, often with national and international collaboration partners.

The diagnostic section, part of the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) Tygerberg business unit, provides a state-of-the-art, SANAS-accredited diagnostic virology service with a comprehensive repertoire of tests being offered, including molecular and serological assays.

Importantly, the diagnostic and the academic sections form an integrated platform, with most staff fulfilling functions on both sides. The close links between the two sections mean that research are of mutual benefit: research projects obtain access to routine clinical samples, while diagnostics can make use of the latest scientific developments.

 

Contact us
+27 21 938 9354
[email protected]

Physical address
8th Floor, Clinical Building, Tygerberg Campus
Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, 7505
 

“Our research on HIV genomic diversity and novel vaccine candidates has garnered international recognition and informed public health policies.”

Our programmes

Undergraduate Teaching

Virology forms a key component of the undergraduate curriculum for MBChB and health science students. Courses integrate foundational virology into clinical and community health contexts.

Bachelor of Science Honours (BSc Hons) in Medical Virology

This programme, soon to be renamed BScHons in Infectious Disease Pathology and Immunology, equips students with foundational knowledge and laboratory skills in virology. It includes a research component covering scientific methodology, proposal writing and laboratory experiments.

Master of Science (MSc) in Medical Virology

A research-intensive programme where students contribute to ongoing projects in areas like HIV genomic diversity, vaccine development and viral immunology. The MSc provides an opportunity to work closely with supervisors on innovative topics in virology.

Master of Medicine (MMed) in Virological Pathology

This medical specialisation programme trains virologists to lead diagnostic labs, guide viral disease management and conduct clinically relevant research. The course integrates diagnostics, patient care and epidemiological surveillance.

PhD Medical Virology

Students perform research on topics that are typically linked to ongoing research themes within our division.  Students studying towards these degrees may work as part of research groups for which their supervisors, senior academic staff in the Division, are principal investigators.