PHTRP Founder's Story
“As a biomedical scientist currently specializing in medical microbiology, I’ve developed a strong passion for bacteriophages, often called “The Perfect Predator”. My journey into phage research was driven by a desire to combat antibiotic resistance, a global health challenge that urgently needs innovative solutions.
When I completed my undergraduate studies, I knew I wanted to contribute to the fight against antimicrobial resistance, particularly through phage research. However, like many, I was unsure of where to start. The gap between theoretical knowledge and practical research experience was vast, and the lack of proper mentorship only widened it.
Recognizing that this uncertainty is a common challenge among young scientists, I envisioned a community where we could support each other—sharing experiences, knowledge, and guidance. This vision led to the creation of the Phage Hunters Training & Research Program. Through this initiative, I am committed to helping others navigate the complexities of building a career in scientific research, ensuring that no one feels lost or unsupported in their journey.
The Phage Hunters Training & Research Program was born out of my belief that peer mentorship is crucial in developing meaningful and purposeful careers in science. By fostering a collaborative environment, we aim to empower the next generation of scientists to explore the exciting field of phage research, contributing to global efforts against antibiotic resistance.” Aboka O. Ely - Founder & Program Director
Welcome to the Phage Hunters Training and Research Program
Phage Hunters Training and Research Program (PHTRP) is a non-profit organization led by a dynamic team of phage enthusiasts from Kenya, committed to inspiring and empowering the next generation of scientists in Africa and other Low & Middle Income Countries (LMICs) to pursue phage research.
𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗨𝘀? We combine hands-on training, scientific entrepreneurship, and strategic advocacy to drive innovation in sustainable antibiotic solutions.
Our program stands on three core values:
- 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Pushing the boundaries of research with new ideas and creative solutions.
- 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Fostering a community where scientists, students, and stakeholders work together.
- 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆: Upholding the highest standards of ethics, transparency, and accountability in our work.
What We Do
- Research: We conduct cutting-edge research on bacteriophages, exploring their interactions with bacterial pathogens and potential applications in therapy and biotechnology.
- Training: Our comprehensive training programs provide hands-on experience in phage hunting and related methodologies, empowering participants with practical skills.
- Collaboration: We partner with leading institutions, researchers, and healthcare professionals worldwide to foster a collaborative environment that drives innovation.
What is Phage Therapy?
Phage therapy is an innovative treatment for bacterial infections that utilizes bacteriophages, or phages—viruses that specifically infect and lyse bacteria. Phages are naturally occurring and highly specific to their bacterial hosts. They recognize and bind to bacterial surface receptors, injecting their genetic material and hijacking the bacterial machinery to replicate, ultimately leading to bacterial cell lysis.
Unlike broad-spectrum antibiotics, which can disrupt beneficial bacteria and contribute to antibiotic resistance, phages offer a highly targeted approach, making them a promising solution, particularly against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Phage therapy is at the forefront of addressing bacterial infections where traditional antibiotics have failed.
What is Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)?
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites develop the ability to resist the drugs designed to kill them. This leads to common infections becoming harder to treat, resulting in prolonged illnesses, higher medical costs, and increased mortality rates. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics are key contributors to the rapid rise of AMR.
As AMR escalates, the search for innovative solutions becomes increasingly urgent. Phage therapy presents a groundbreaking alternative by offering precise bacterial targeting, thus addressing infections that are no longer responsive to conventional antibiotics. Our work focuses on advancing phage research to tackle this global health challenge.
Team Leads
Alice Owiti
Co-Founder & Program Coordintor
Ely Aboka
Founder & Program Director
Nelson Gichuki
Co-Founder, Scientific Writer & Outreach and Engagement Manager (Outreach Docket)
Samuel Ndegwa
Program Coordinator (Journal Club docket)
Linet Lusimba
Program Coordinator (Journal Club docket)
Meshack Tweya
Program Coordinator(Training docket)
Collins Kigen
Program Coordinator
(Training docket)
Ivy Mutai
Phage Kenya Consortium Affiliate & PHTRP Strategic Advisor
Martin Georges
Phage Kenya Consortium Affiliate & PHRTP Strategic Advisor
Dr. Israel Munyao
C.E.O and Strategic Advisor
PHTRP Writers and Journal Club Facilitators
Cateline Ouma
Roberto Monllor Guerra
Elkana Mudi
Gloria Maleche
Festus Nyamweya