UKZN Alumnus Pioneers Parkinson’s Research at University of Oxford
Dr Kalina Naidoo, a postdoctoral researcher at the Wade-Martins Lab in Oxford’s Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics (DPAG), is making significant strides in Parkinson’s disease research.
Her work aims to improve early diagnosis and develop targeted therapies for the neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions worldwide.
Naidoo began her academic journey at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), where she completed a degree in Medical Science. She went on to complete a Master’s in Medical Science, during which she encountered an opportunity that would shape her future.
While waiting for an elevator at the UKZN Medical School, she noticed an advertisement for the prestigious Cecil Renaud Overseas Scholarship. Encouraged by its objective checklist format, she applied and secured the scholarship, enabling her to study at Oxford in 2015.
At Oxford, Naidoo specialised in neuroscience, focusing on dementia and neurodegenerative diseases.
Her current research explores Parkinson’s as a disease with distinct clinical subtypes. She is investigating whether these variations have a biological basis. By understanding these differences, Naidoo hopes to develop more precise treatments tailored to individual patients.
A previous project saw Naidoo optimise an innovative imaging technique to measure an enzyme linked to a genetic mutation (GBA N370S) associated with Parkinson’s. This breakthrough could become a valuable tool for researchers studying the disease’s genetic components.
Despite challenges, including the disruption of her PhD research due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Naidoo persevered.
She joined the Wade-Martins Lab as a postdoctoral research assistant and, within six months, was promoted to full postdoctoral researcher after proving her capabilities.
Beyond her research, Naidoo is passionate about mentorship. She tutors and lectures at Oxford, helping to shape the next generation of scientists. She also hopes to include a South African cohort in her studies, helping to ensure that diverse genetic data informs Parkinson’s research.
Reflecting on her journey from UKZN to Oxford, Naidoo credits her success to ‘resilience, community support, and an openness to unexpected opportunities.’ She encourages UKZN students to ‘seek personal development’ in various forms, emphasising the importance of perseverance and adaptability in scientific research.
Her work continues to push the boundaries of Parkinson’s research, with the potential to transform how the disease is diagnosed and treated globally.
Words: Melissa Mungroo
Photograph: Supplied
