Press release statement
Submitted by: The Department of Marketing & Communications
Via email: Hlophe@mut.ac.za
13 April 2023
MUT to honour globally renowned scientist and SAMRC president at graduation
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) is set to honour one of South Africa’s globally renowned scientists, and the Chief Executive Officer and President of the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC).
The Faculty of Natural Sciences will dedicate its graduation ceremony in honour of Professor Glenda Gray, for her stellar contribution to science through her research which has her among the best scientists globally.
Professor Gray, who is a National Research Foundation A1-rated scientist, will be honoured on Monday, 17 April 2023. A qualified paediatrician, Professor Gray gained global admiration for her research in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV. This work earned her South Africa’s highest honour, the Order of Mapungubwe in Silver in 2013.
“Professor Gray is one of the world’s renowned scientists and a leader in mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Her contribution in this field has saved many generations from HIV and positioned Professor Gray as an advocate for children’s health and wellbeing. MUT is honoured to recognise this African giant,” said Professor Marcus Ramogale, Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal of MUT.
In the global science arena, Professor Gray is also known for being the co-principal investigator of the HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN), an international collaboration for the development of HIV/AIDS prevention vaccines.
“Professor Gray is an excellent example of using academic qualifications and training to serve humanity. Hers has been a life dedicated to eradicating HIV from the face of the earth. Her work and that of her colleagues continue to shape new understanding HIV and its efficient prevention methods,” said Professor Ramogale.
Professor Gray has received numerous accolades in recognition of her research work. She received the Nelson Mandela Health and Human Rights Award for her significant contributions to the field of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. She was selected as one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People in the World, and Forbes’ Top 50 Women in Africa.
Professor Gray was honoured with a Doctor of Science (honoris causa) from Simon Fraser University, a Doctor of Science (honoris causa) from Stellenbosch University), and a Doctor of Laws (honoris causa) from Rhodes University.
A fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology, Professor Gray is a member of the National Academy of Medicine, the Academy of Science of South Africa, the African Academy of Science, and the World Academy of Science. She is a member of the board of Global Antibiotic Research & Development Partnership, Access to Advanced Health Institute, and a member of the World Health Organisation’s Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on Tuberculosis.
Professor Gray is the co-founder of the internationally recognised Perinatal HIV Research Unit in Soweto, South Africa. Prior to her appointment at the SAMRC, she was the Executive Director of the Perinatal HIV Research Unit, an affiliate of Wits University.
Professor Gray holds a t Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBCh) from the University of the Witwatersrand Medical School. She also completed a Fellowship in Paediatrics and Child Health at the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa.
Contact Bheki Hlophe at Hlophe@mut.ac.za for interviews.
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