UVRI

The Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) is a government health research institution under Uganda’s Ministry of Health and a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre. Established by the Rockefeller Foundation, it has a long history of viral research in Africa and works to advance scientific knowledge, public health practice, policy, and research capacity. Its mission includes investigating viral diseases and supporting efforts to prevent and control health threats.

UVRI’s research spans virology, arbovirology, immunology, entomology, and epidemiology. Its services include clinical and research diagnostic testing for pathogens such as HIV, Ebola, arboviruses, and respiratory viruses, using PCR, serology, antigen testing, and culture methods. The institute also provides genomic sequencing, pathogen analysis, confirmatory testing, and specialized BSL-2 and BSL-3 reference laboratory services. Beyond laboratory work, UVRI contributes to disease surveillance, outbreak investigations, risk assessment, and public health data analysis. It supports health professionals and researchers through training, workshops, internships, fellowships, mentorship, and research partnerships, while collaborating with government agencies and local and international institutions.