Centre of Excellence

Tamara Hammond

Level of Study

Masters

Site

DDMRI (Lab)

Hometown

Shelly Beach, South Africa

Current Research Area

My current research focuses on HIV prevention, female genital tract immunology, and mucosal inflammation. As a Master's student at CAPRISA, I investigate the relationship between genital inflammation, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), immunoglobulin isotypes and subclasses, and broadly neutralising antibodies (bNAbs) in women participating in the CAP012A and CAP012B clinical trials. My broader research interests include HIV prevention strategies, women's reproductive health, mucosal immunity, immunology, and biomarker discovery.

Future Career Aspirations

My long-term career goal is to become an independent clinical and translational researcher specialising in HIV prevention, immunology, and women's health. I aspire to pursue doctoral studies and contribute to the development of innovative HIV prevention strategies, including broadly neutralising antibodies and other long-acting interventions. I am passionate about translating scientific discoveries into interventions that improve the health outcomes of women and adolescent girls in South Africa and globally, while also mentoring future scientists and contributing to capacity building in health research.