Emmanuella Awedana Apuri
- Country of Origin: Ghana
- Home University: University of Ghana
- Host University & Country: University of Manchester - United Kingdom
- PhD Title: Interaction of Human Cytomegalovirus Glycoprotein B with the Immune System and the Role of this in Disease Virulence and Pathogenesis
- Year of Completion: 2030
PhD Overview
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a widespread viral pathogen and a major cause of congenital infection, potentially resulting in permanent hearing loss, neurodevelopmental complications and lifelong disability. However, clinical outcomes vary considerably: some congenitally infected infants remain asymptomatic, while others develop severe disease. The viral and host factors contributing to this variation remain incompletely understood.
My PhD research at the University of Manchester investigates the relationship between genetic variation in HCMV glycoprotein B (gB), viral virulence and host immune recognition. Glycoprotein B is a central mediator of viral membrane fusion and cell entry, making it an important candidate for understanding differences in viral behaviour and immune interactions.
Using recombinant viruses representing different gB genotypes, I aim to investigate genotype-associated differences in viral growth, virulence-related phenotypes and immune responses. By integrating experimental virology with an understanding of viral genetic diversity and host–pathogen interactions, this work seeks to clarify whether variation in gB contributes to biologically meaningful differences in infection and disease.
The significance of this research extends beyond characterising viral diversity. Understanding how viral genetic variation influences pathogenesis could help identify mechanisms associated with severe disease, inform future investigations into immune protection, and guide the development of more effective preventive and therapeutic strategies.
Ultimately, I aspire to contribute to a future in which advances in viral genomics and experimental virology translate into better outcomes for infants, families and communities affected by congenital viral infections, including in settings where research resources remain limited.
Sustainability Goals
- Gender Equality
- Good Health and Well-being
- Quality Education
About Me
“I am a biomedical scientist driven by one central question: how can we transform our understanding of infectious diseases into knowledge that saves lives and strengthens health systems?
My journey into research has been shaped by experience at the frontline of infectious disease diagnostics and surveillance in Ghana. As a Senior Biomedical Scientist at the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre, I contributed to diagnostic services, viral genomics and public health laboratory activities involving pathogens including SARS-CoV-2 and HIV. Working in this environment strengthened my appreciation of the connection between laboratory science, clinical outcomes and public health decision-making. It also reinforced my conviction that African scientists must be equipped not only to apply scientific discoveries, but to generate the evidence that shapes them.
Today, I am advancing this commitment through my PhD research on human cytomegalovirus. I seek to understand how genetic differences in a key viral glycoprotein influence viral behaviour and interactions with the immune system, helping address an important question in congenital infection: why do disease outcomes differ between individuals? My ambition is to contribute rigorous experimental evidence that advances understanding of viral pathogenesis and opens new directions for research into disease prevention and management.
My vision extends beyond the laboratory. In 2019, I founded the Awella Foundation to connect health education, community engagement and opportunities for girls in STEM. Through this work, I have helped bring health awareness and outreach to communities while advocating for greater participation of girls and young women in science. These experiences have taught me that scientific progress requires more than discovery; it also requires accessible knowledge, inclusive leadership and investment in people.
The Faculty for the Future Fellowship represents an opportunity to deepen my scientific expertise while developing the capacity to contribute to research and public health in Ghana and across Africa. I aspire to become a research leader who bridges advanced virology, genomic surveillance, scientific mentorship and community impact. In the long term, I want to help strengthen African research capacity, support young scientists especially women and build stronger connections between global scientific innovation and local health priorities.
My ambition is not simply to become an expert in virology, but to help build a scientific future in which African researchers lead discoveries, women have the opportunity to shape scientific progress, and research translates into healthier communities.”