MU-JHU was honored to participate in the 32nd Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) from March 9-12, 2025, at the Moscone Convention Center, San Francisco. This premier gathering of global experts provided a platform for MU-JHU researchers to share groundbreaking work in HIV prevention, treatment, and maternal-child health.
Dr. Flavia Matovu Kiweewa, MU-JHU’s Director of Research, contributed to the “Expanding the Prevention Toolbox” panel, discussing adherence to F/TAF in cisgender women and its role in HIV prevention. Her insights helped shape conversations on long-acting PrEP and optimized prevention regimens, reinforcing MU-JHU’s commitment to advancing HIV prevention strategies.
Brenda Kakayi took center stage with her poster presentation on Insulin-like Growth Factors and Stunting in African Infants Exposed to HIV and Uninfected, an IMPAACT-funded sub-study under the PROMISE P1084s study. Also as a part of the themed discussion session, “Growing Up With HIV Exposure,” she gave an oral presentation on the same study. Her research highlighted critical early childhood growth challenges among HIV-exposed but uninfected infants in Africa. The session, “Growing Up With HIV Exposure,” provided an engaging discussion on long-term health outcomes for this vulnerable population.
Beyond presentations, MU-JHU’s Early Career Investigators (ECIs)—Dr. Rita Nakalega, Dr. Grace Ahimbisibwe, and Dr. Denis Kimbugwe—actively participated in scholar programs, gaining mentorship and professional development opportunities. Dr. Ronnie Kasirye, passionate about HIV and aging, engaged with global experts and is now inspired to pursue major research in this growing field.
As Dr. Clemensia Nakabiito, MU-JHU’s CRS Leader, put it:
“CROI 2025 has been more than a conference—it was a launchpad for the next generation of scientific leaders. Witnessing our ECIs gain invaluable experience, connect with peers, and take bold steps in their research journeys was a defining moment for MU-JHU.”
From innovative research to dynamic networking, MU-JHU’s presence at CROI 2025 reinforced its leadership in HIV science. The knowledge gained and collaborations forged will continue to drive impactful research for years to come.
🔗 Learn more about CROI 2025: CROI Official Website
