Previn Naicker
Proteomics Coordinator, Domain Expert & Senior Researcher
What is your role in the DIPLOMICS network?
Proteomics and Metabolomics working group coordinator.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
As a research scientist your work is dynamic. Having to solve new problems on a regular basis keeps me going.
Why is the Omics industry so important in South Africa?
OMICs research is essential for improving our understanding of biological systems and applicable in disease research that can help find novel drug targets and development of new diagnostic tools. With South Africa having a genetically diverse population, it is important that we establish that therapeutics and diagnostic assays are as effective in a South African context as they are elsewhere in the world. OMICs data is a powerful resource for establishing this. Futhermore, in order to improve the number of scientific innovations that emanate from the country, enabling research tools such as OMICs need to be more widely accessible.
Use an adjective that best describes yourself.
Boisterous
What are your favourite past times?
Traveling and hiking, going to food and craft markets, watching/playing sport.
Describe someone who is an inspiration in your life, and why.
Although I don't know him personally, I would say our current President, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa. During a time of crisis and after inheriting so many challenges, he has remained resolute and also shown compassion to try and solve the multitude of challenges that our country faces.
Tell us what your favorite quote or mantra is.
"The longest journey is the journey inward", Dag Hammarskjold.