ISM: 20 Years Of Scientific Excellence, Innovation And Scientific Impact
For two decades, the Higher Institute for Scientific and Medical Research (ISM) has been at the forefront of scientific research addressing major public health challenges in Cameroon and beyond.
Since its creation in 2005 by Prof. Joseph KAMGNO, ISM has established itself as a key player in both fundamental and applied research, actively contributing to the fight against infectious, tropical, and non-communicable diseases.
For two decades, the Higher Institute for Scientific and Medical Research (ISM) has been at the forefront of scientific research addressing major public health challenges in Cameroon and beyond.
Since its creation in 2005 by Prof. Joseph KAMGNO, ISM has established itself as a key player in both fundamental and applied research, actively contributing to the fight against infectious, tropical, and non-communicable diseases.
ISM has an impressive track record of:
- More than 300 international scientific publications
- Worldwide collaborations of significant scale
- Prestigious national and international awards and distinctions
From 2005 to 2025, ISM has stood out as a center of excellence and has received several national and international recognitions, including:
- Christophe and Rodolphe Mérieux Award, 2022
- AUF Prize, 2018
- Islamic Development Bank Prize, 2015
ISM has built strong national and international partnerships, supporting major public health programs.
ISM is deeply committed to strengthening the capacities of scientific teams through training, field expertise, and scientific mentoring.
The Institute is also recognized for its mastery of community-based interventions aimed at improving the health and well-being of vulnerable populations.
Throughout this month of December, we want to end the year on a positive note with a full month of celebration. We invite you to join us in giving full brilliance to this 20th anniversary.
Join us as we enter a new phase of growth and service to the scientific and medical community.
Let us celebrate together 20 years of scientific commitment.
20 Years of Excellence: Introducing MEPG at ISM
Launch of the Department of Molecular Epidemiology and Pathogen Genomics (MEPG)
As we mark the 20th anniversary of the Higher Institute for Scientific and Medical Research (ISM), we are proud to announce the launch of the Department of Molecular Epidemiology and Pathogen Genomics (MEPG).
This new department represents a strategic response to the urgent challenges posed by tropical infectious diseases, emerging pathogens, and antimicrobial resistance across Africa.
MEPG is designed to position ISM as a national and regional leader in:
- Genomic epidemiology
- One Health research
- Advanced molecular surveillance
Through cutting-edge research and integrated approaches, the department aims to strengthen public health preparedness and response across Cameroon and the wider region.
Department Structure
MEPG is built on three specialized and complementary units:
Molecular Diagnostics & Genomics
Focused on pathogen detection, genomic sequencing, and molecular surveillance to support disease monitoring and control.
Computational Biology
Dedicated to bioinformatics, genomic data analysis, and the interpretation of molecular and epidemiological data for evidence-based decision-making.
Field Epidemiology & One Health
Integrating human, animal, and environmental health approaches through field investigations and applied epidemiological research.
Research, Surveillance, and Capacity Building
The department is committed to:
Generating high-quality scientific evidence
Enhancing genomic surveillance systems
Supporting disease elimination strategies
Training the next generation of African scientists
Looking Ahead
As ISM celebrates two decades of scientific excellence, we renew our commitment to a future driven by innovation, impactful partnerships, and transformative research a future that strengthens health security and fortifies public health systems in Cameroon and across the region.
ISM – Immunology and Biochemistry Platform: Two Decades of Scientific Service and Excellence
Dr. Linda Djune Yemeli
Ph.D. in Biochemistry, University of Yaoundé I (UY1)
Head of the immunology and biochemistry platform at ISM
Our mission is to harness biochemistry and immunology as tools in the fight against infectious diseases, with a particular focus on neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). The platform conducts:
- Biochemical and hematological assays
- Serological analyses for the diagnosis of filariasis
- Development and validation of immunological diagnostic tests
We are proud to serve as a reference laboratory supporting onchocerciasis elimination in Africa. In collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), we process samples and train technicians from other African countries within the framework of the Onchocerciasis Elimination Mapping (OEM) initiative.
Equipment and Capabilities
Our platform is equipped with a range of instruments that ensure high‑quality diagnostics and research outputs:
- Microplate Reader (Absorbance): Flexible and sensitive for ELISA, microbial growth assays, and protein quantification. Extensively used in onchocerciasis elimination mapping. Connected to a computer for easy data storage and transfer.
- Microplate Washer: Ensures precise washing during ELISA, maximizing signal‑to‑noise ratio. Uses PBS and other buffers depending on the analyte.
- Refrigerated Bench Centrifuge: High‑capacity, versatile centrifuge for plasma and serum preparation, with adjustable speed and temperature.
- Agitators (Electric and Mechanical): Used to homogenize reactions and samples during experiments.
- Biochemistry Analyzer (Counter): Measures bilirubin, transaminases, gamma‑GT, creatinine, and other biochemical parameters.
- Afinion Analyzer: Performs lipid profiles, C‑reactive protein, and HbA1c testing.
- Hemocue: Provides white blood cell differentiation and quantification of blood elements.
- Flow Cytometer (planned acquisition): Essential for advanced immunological evaluations; not yet part of our equipment but a priority for future expansion.
The Immunology and Biochemistry Platform combines cutting‑edge equipment, skilled personnel, and a clear mission to strengthen Africa’s fight against NTDs. By supporting WHO programs, training regional technicians, and advancing diagnostic innovation, we contribute directly to the global effort to eliminate onchocerciasis and other infectious diseases.
Celebrating 20 Years of Impact
Our mission
Two decades ago, in 2005, the Higher Institute for Scientific and Medical Research (ISM) was founded with the clear and courageous mission to put high-quality biomedical research at the service of the fight against tropical diseases in Cameroon and beyond.
From its inception, ISM has worked as a Cameroonian non-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing health through applied scientific research. Its foundational missions include:
- Developing systems for monitoring, preventing, and managing serious side effects (SSEs) linked to mass ivermectin (Mectizan®) treatment campaigns for onchocerciasis.
- Training health personnel on surveillance, prevention, and management of serious adverse events, and on monitoring and evaluating NTD control programs.
- Conducting impactful research on tropical infections particularly neglected tropical diseases.
Over the years, ISM has broadened its spheres of action in response to pressing public health challenges in Cameroon. The organization has expanded its research portfolio to include:
- Clinical trials on new treatments for onchocerciasis
- Studies for a range of priority diseases such as malaria, COVID-19, HIV, hepatitis, tuberculosis, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Today, as we celebrate 20 years of existence, we honor this visionary beginning and the unwavering commitment that has strengthened ISM’s role as a leading research institution in Cameroon.
Stay tuned as we continue our anniversary series, showcasing our milestones, scientific breakthroughs, and the extraordinary researchers who drive our mission forward.
Our Location
- 285, Street 1.411, Fouda Quarter, Yaounde 5, Cameroon P.O. Box 5797 Yaounde
- +237 6 75 06 91 58
- stephanie.jouego@ismcm.org
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