I have always been interested in immunology which made me determined to pursue a career that keeps me continuously updated and involved with advances in this field. That is why I joined the department of Microbiology, University of Khartoum, as a teaching assistant with a special interest in immunology. In Sudan, there is no established clinical immunology service and undergraduate immunology courses are still being taught as part of the Microbiology modules in an abridged manner. A separate postgraduate programme has started only 2 years ago. These reasons increased my determination and enthusiasm to pursue the best training I could possibly get so that I can contribute to making the necessary reforms.

To acquire the appropriate training and experience, I have been seconded, by the University of Khartoum, to the Department of Immunology, RVI, Newcastle upon Tyne (2002-2006). This appointment has certainly broadened my perception on the range of diseases caused by primary immune deficiencies (PID), autoimmune diseases and allergic diseases. During this period I qualified and obtained the Diploma of the Royal College of Pathologists in Immunology. I have also spent a period of 8 (Feb-Sep 2007) months attached to Paediatric and adult immunology units in Adelaide, South Australia.

From a personal perspective my short term goal is to attain FRCPATH Immunology (currently holding DipRCPATH).

An ultimate long term goal is to promote training for both postgraduates and undergraduates and to set up a clinical immunology service. By so doing I hope to improve the perception of clinical immunology as a speciality and recruit more individuals to the field. I am also hoping to establish links with regional and international centres such that better care is provided to patients with immunological diseases.