April 8, 2026
We’re delighted to welcome Edwin Sutanto as ACREME’s newest PhD student from Menzies School of Health Research.
Edwin is currently in his second year of PhD training under the supervision of Professor Sarah Auburn. His research focuses on investigating drug resistance in Plasmodium falciparum in Papua, Indonesia using advanced molecular approaches.
His project applies genome-wide analyses to identify selective pressures shaping parasite populations over time, alongside innovative microhaplotype assays developed at Menzies to generate high-resolution data more efficiently. Edwin will also explore the genetic diversity and resistance profiles of infections from previously understudied regions, including the hidden splenic reservoir.
A key component of Edwin’s work will involve close collaboration with Professor Alyssa Barry at Deakin University, supporting cross-border malaria molecular surveillance between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. This work strengthens existing regional partnerships and contributes to a coordinated approach to tracking drug resistance across borders.
This project is made possible through strong collaborations with partners in Indonesia, including Rintis Noviyanti and EXEINS Health Initiative, and aligns with ongoing programs in Papua New Guinea led by ACREME investigators Professor Moses Laman and Professor Leanne Robinson.
We’re excited to have Edwin join the ACREME community and look forward to the impact of his work in advancing malaria molecular surveillance and drug resistance detection.