Plenary Session 5
Thursday, June 29 15:30

Debra Meyer is a Professor of Biochemistry and the Executive Dean of Science at the University of Johannesburg. She was formerly Head of the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Pretoria. Prof Meyer holds a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of California, Davis in the United States, and a Master’s degree from the Rand Afrikaans University (South Africa) and also completed Executive Leadership training at Harvard University and the University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science. She is currently a director or trustee of 4 national/multi-national organisations/trusts.

Her research approach involves applying analytical methodologies for an improved understanding of HIV/AIDS and associated opportunistic diseases. In this regard she works on metabolomics-profiling of HIV/AIDS biofluids and novel treatment options using synthetic (metallodrugs) and natural sources (plants, soft coral).

Prof Meyer is actively involved in social issues, focusing on HIV/AIDS and multilingualism in South Africa and has been the recipient of various awards for science expertise and community service.