I am MISSA Kouassi Firmin. I hold a PhD in molecular microbiology from Félix Houphouët-Boigny University, and I am currently an associate researcher at Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques Côte d’Ivoire (CSRS).
My research focuses on the role of the respiratory microbiome in the development and modulation of respiratory tract infections, including those caused by SARS-CoV-2, rhinoviruses, influenza A and B, and respiratory syncytial virus. I am particularly interested in how host–microbiome interactions influence susceptibility to infection. In addition, my work explores immune biomarkers associated with respiratory infections. Specifically, I investigate the role of secretory IgA (sIgA) and cytokine profiles in mucosal immunity. I have been actively involved in genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in school-age children in Côte d’Ivoire, as well as dengue virus.
I am also a member of a consortium working on vaccines to control respiratory pathogens and antimicrobial resistance across Africa. My work ultimately aims to bridge microbiome research, viral genomics, and vaccine strategies to enhance respiratory health in resource-limited settings.
