• Research Technician, MIB, University of Manchester, 2025-
  • PhD Molecular Microbiology, Rhodes University, 2020-2025 ‘Analysis of the role of polyphosphate kinases in the physiology of Mycobacterium smegmatis and Mycobacterium tuberculosis as a promising drug target for the treatment of Tuberculosis. PI (Dr. Garth L. Abrahams) and CO-I (Prof. Adrienne L. Edkins).
  • MSc Biomedical Engineering, University of Dundee, 2018-2019
  • BSc Medical Laboratory Science, Ebonyi State University, Nigeria, 2009-2014

Research Interests

Nnenna is interested in understanding the unique physiology of the different metabolic states of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) to tackle antimicrobial drug resistance through the validation of novel drug targets. Her PhD research, funded by DAAD, investigated the role of polyphosphate in mediating resistance of Msm and Mtb to diverse physical and chemical stresses encountered by Mtb during in vivo growth, uncovering mechanisms by which polyphosphate potentiates Mtb virulence, survival, and persistence.

In 2018, she earned a prestigious scholarship to pursue a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, where her research focused on the design, synthesis, and application of colloidal nanoparticles as an alternative strategy to address antibacterial resistance.

Nnenna is currently committed to supporting world-class and impactful research by ensuring laboratories operate smoothly, efficiently, and safely, thereby contributing to scientific discovery and advancement.