Joshua Uzochukwu graduated with a first-class BSc in Biochemistry, Molecular, and Cell Biology and gained two years of research experience at the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens. There, he studied the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, focusing on its molecular mechanisms and pathogenesis, which deepened his passion for translational research.

Josh's PhD research investigates the host-microbiome interactions in Noma disease, a neglected condition affecting malnourished children in low-resource settings. Noma begins as gingival inflammation and rapidly progresses to severe tissue destruction, with a 90% mortality rate if untreated. Collaborating with international partners at the Noma Children’s Hospital in Nigeria, he uses metagenomics, metabolomics, proteomics, and immunoprofiling to uncover microbial, immune, and environmental factors driving Noma. This research also explores risk factors such as nutrition and hygiene, aiming to identify biomarkers for early diagnosis and prevention.

Under the supervision of Professor Gordon Proctor, Professor Mark Ide, and Dr David Moyes, and as a member of the Moyes Lab Group, his work integrates molecular biology, bioinformatics, and immunology to better understand host-pathogen interactions. Through this research, he aims to improve early detection, prevention, and intervention strategies for Noma, contributing to global efforts to alleviate the burden of this devastating disease.