The Malaria research line has been the main research pillar of the Department of Biochemistry since 2001. Given the availability in Suriname of proper malaria control and proper diagnosis and treatment, the focus of this theme is on basic research. We investigate mechanisms and determinants that lead to the development of resistance to malaria. Moreover, we aim to launch ‘kiemsurveillance’ in Suriname (the integration of molecular biological diagnostics, characterization and epidemiology with large databases of “fingerprints”, with a national health goal or a local/regional epidemiological purpose).

The Biochemistry department has contributed to the election of Suriname to PAHO’s Malaria Champion of the Americas in 2010.