Petrina is an Associate Professor in Biochemistry at the University of Namibia’s School of Science. She joined the University of Namibia (permanent appointment) in September 2013. In her current position, she is involved in teaching, supervision of postgraduate students as well as assist in administrative duties of the Universities such as review of policies. Her primary research focus is HIV Drug Discovery including identifying potential latent HIV-1 reactivators. She established a mammalian cell culture laboratory in 2017 to support her work. She works closely with Chemists at the University of Namibia as well as traditional medicine practitioners (locally and regionally); validating synthetic and natural agents for in vitro anti-HIV activity. Other research focus include screening for antioxidant, anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities. Petrina is serving as one of the local chairs in Namibia for the upcoming International Conference on HIV Treatment, Pathogenesis, and Prevention Research (INTEREST) scheduled for May 2025.
