A short summary of Shahida`s research:

My research focusses on combining medical genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, novel AI tools and qualitative work to improve the lives of millions of South Africans living with rare diseases, the majority of whom are still undiagnosed. I first became interested in genetics and rare diseases as a medical officer in Paediatrics, where I was most fulfilled by helping the most marginalised patients - eventually figuring out that they all had suspected genetic conditions, but that there were too few resources devoted to diagnosing, treating and caring for them.

Research for Impact is one of the core strategic themes in SU`s Vision 2040. Can you describe the (potential) impact of your research?

My research directly impacts real people living with rare diseases and their families. In the "Undiagnosed Disease Programme" I use the latest in cutting-edge genomics and AI next generation phenotyping techniques to provide families with undiagnosed rare diseases with a diagnosis. In parallel, I also conduct qualitative research to explore the families', caregivers' and siblings' experiences to better understand their challenges and uncover ways to improve their quality of life. The impact on the next generation of scientists and clinicians cannot be overstated: they are learning rare and scarce skills and benefitting patients and families while learning.

In the ever-changing environment of academia, what are some of the obstacles early career researchers are faced with?

Funding is always a problem. There is very little understanding for clinician-scientists and the many hats we have to wear. I have a triple burden: I am expected to commit 100% of my time to the clinical service on the one hand, while the University also expects me conduct research, train students and publish, and I have to lecture and teach undergrad and postgrad students.

What would you regard as the most important aspects to consider to effectively support early career researchers?

Mentoring: by someone who has more experience, has navigated the system and. who can provide support.
Funding: even a small amount of funding goes a long way to enable us to attend courses or buy software or support a research assistant

What excites you about your work? 

That I get to work with people, knowing I am unique with regards to my skills-set - to provide them with world class care, research and mentoring.

When you're not in the lab, library or in the field conducting research, what do you do to unwind?

I enjoy the outdoors, even a walk in the neighbourhood or around the campus can be very stress-relieving. My walks often last very long because I stop to smell the flowers and photograph the fauna and flora along the way.

How has the ECAD programme of SU contributed to your research career? 

Peer support, mentoring support and funding. Without which I would not have been able to secure my first grant or find moments of sanity in this very hectic and demanding clinical and academic life.

What advice, if any, would you look to impart to future early career academics?

Find support as early as possible. Be brave and approach the senior academic for mentorship. Be brave and reach out to peers for support - even a coffee break together to chat is really helpful. 

Connect with Shahida and her work!

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/profshahidamoosa/
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=GZfHZT8AAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Shahida-Moosa/research