Name: Professor Takafira Mduluza
Position:Full Professor
Qualifications:
Research Interests:
My current research interests include parasitic infections, immunology and vaccine targets. I have been involved in research on parasitic infections particularly for schistosomiasis, soil transmitted helminths and malaria that involved community surveillance, field diagnosis and blood sample collection for later immunological profiles determination. We have been carrying out field trials on polyparasitism control using chemotherapy as the only alternative of current control option in the view of lack of vaccine candidates for schistosomiasis and soil transmitted helminths. As an immunologist the subject on polyparasitism has been a great challenge and more information is required to contribute towards vaccine development. Whereas, schistosomiasis has been neglected and the scourge has been rapidly increasing in resource poor settings. The neglect may have been compelled by the increasing demand for resources required for other infectious diseases like malaria, TB and HIV/AIDS. Further challenges have arisen where it has been reported by our group that schistosomiasis causes some pathology in the genital area that could predispose individuals to other infections like HIV and genital cancers. The search for possible methods that may prevent development of pathology has pointed to treatment as the only mainstay control of schistosomiasis. Through the activities on polyparasitism, I have utilized the opportunity for capacity building of junior researchers as main supervisor and co-supervisor for international students.
Contact Details:
+263 773633682
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Name: Professor Maud Muchuweti
Position: Full Professor
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Science Honours in Biochemistry, (University of Zimbabwe)
Doctor of Philosophy, Biochemistry, (University of Zimbabwe)
Research Interests:
- Analysis of polysaccharides in wild plants: Their use in industrial applications
- Traditional and indigenous foods: Medico-nutritional properties and utilisation
- Biological natural products
- Water and Sanitation
Contact Details:
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0772235495
Name: Prof Cathrine Chidewe
Position: Associate Professor
Qualifications:
- PhD Nutritional Biochemistry (University of Zimbabwe)
- BSc Honours in Biochemistry (University of Zimbabwe)
Research Interests:
- Analysis of mycotoxins in grains and in biological samples of exposed populations from some rural communities of Zimbabwe
- Characterisation of medicinal properties of nutaceutical plants and edible insects
- Characterisation of antinutrients and bioactive compounds in wild plant foods of Zimbabwe, wild vegetables, legumes and edible insects
- Analysis of polysaccharides isolated from plants and their functional properties
Contact Details:
263772116283
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Name: Dr. Farisai Chidzwondo nee Mukorah
Position: Senior Lecturer
Qualifications:
- BSc Honours in Biochemistry (University of Zimbabwe)
- MSc in Biotechnology (University of Zimbabwe)
- D. Phil in Science (University of Zimbabwe)
Research Interests:
Sustainable and Healthy Food Systems - Southern Africa (SHEFS-SA)
My focus is on using indigenous knowledge to make the most of under-utilized organisms that grow in diverse geo-climatic regions in Zimbabwe. As a molecular biologist on the SHEFS-SA project, I am interested in using molecular techniques to improve soil health, monitor water quality, detect foodborne diseases, and reduce zoonotic transmissions. The diverse gene pool from underutilized and neglected crops and animals will be maximized to improve the health and production of crops and livestock while taking measures to conserve and maintain the rich gene pool.
Development of Under-utilised Natural Resources
The increasing demand for food and feed requires the exploitation of alternative sources. Preliminary data shows that the legume Mucuna pruriens has the potential as a coffee substitute, feed and food. Together with colleagues in Crop Science and SHEFS-SA, we intend to explore ways in which the use of this legume can be maximized. In addition, we intend to investigate the potential of other under-utilized crops and the yellow mealworm beetle Tenebrio molitor as an alternative source of protein for livestock feed. The potential of reproductive technologies in smallholder livestock populations is also being investigated in collaboration with colleagues from Chinhoyi University of Technology
Development of Tools for the Detection of Co-Infections
My passion is to contribute to the long-term health security of the African continent by developing point-of-care immunodiagnostic tools and vaccines for human diseases that are endemic on the continent. Africa has lagged behind on the development of suitable diagnostic medical devices, vaccine research, deployment, development and innovation activities such as multiplex detection of infectious agents. Misdiagnosis or late diagnosis of neglected tropical diseases, often complicated by co-infections, has led to high mortalities and morbidities.
Contact Details:
263 771519265
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Name: Dr Rumbidzai Mangoyi
Position: Senior Lecture
Qualifications:
- B.Sc. (Hons) Biochemistry
- M. Phil/ D. Phil. Biochemistry
Research Interests:
Isolation and identification of enzymes from microorganisms for use in different industries in Zimbabwe
An example of industries being targeted is the leather industry. The leather industry in Zimbabwe is making use of chemicals during the pre-tanning processes such as dehairing and bating whilst the textile, detergent and starch processing industries are making use for thermostable and high salt concentration-tolerating amylases which are being imported. The chemicals being used in the leather industry are causing pollution to the environment and are also toxic to individuals when inhaled. On the other hand, importing the enzymes such as amylases for industrial use is very expensive. Thus, there is need to look for an alternative. Amylases and other enzymes such as phosphatases are generally produced by many microorganisms hence isolating them would reduce the importation costs and pollution.
Enzymes may also be useful in polystyrene degradation. Polystyrene is the major waste plastic contributing to environmental pollution and human health challenges, hence, urgent innovative and eco-friendly solutions for plastic degradation is required. Use of enzymes from microorganisms has great potential in reducing plastic waste disposal challenges in Zimbabwe and, hence, reduction of environmental pollution.
Contact Details:
+263773650560
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Name: Dr. Theresa Netsai Chimponda
Qualifications:
- Master of Philosophy Biochemistry
- BSc Honours, Biochemistry
Research Interests:
Microbiology and Immunology. I am mainly interested in research in markers of inflammation. My other interest are natural product research as well as research in Schistosomiasis, malaria, Tuberculosis and cancer research.
Contact Details:
0772685825
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Name: Ms. R. Makurira
Position: Temporary Full-time Lecturer
Qualifications:
- MSc in Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology- NUST, Zimbabwe
- BSc Hons in Biochemistry- University of Zimbabwe
Research Interests:
- Biochemical pharmacology
- Scientific evaluation of medicinal plants
- Bioactive compounds
- Drugs
Contact Details:
0772389871
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Name: Mr Beta. Regis. R
Qualifications:
- MSc in Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology (National University of Science and Technology)
- BSc (Hons) Biochemistry (University of Zimbabwe)
Research Interests:
Nutritional Biochemistry
- Biological Natural Products Including Phytochemical
- Bioactive Compounds and Neutraceticals
- Epidemiology of Neglected Tropical Diseases, Schistosomiasis
- Environmental biochemistry
Contact Details:
0788899839
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Name: Mrs. Ruvimbo Mautsa
Qualifications:
- MPhil Biochemistry - University of Zimbabwe
- BSc Hons – Biochemistry- University of Zimbabwe
Research Interests:
- Biochemical pharmacology
- Natural product science
- Development of natural product-derived pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals to benefit human health and agricultural productivity
Contact Details:
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+263773422932
Name: Mr Thomas Marangwana
Qualifications:
- MSc Biotechnology
- BSc Honours Biochemistry
Research Interests:
- Sustainable production of mushrooms in Zimbabwe.
- Drug development from underutilized plants.
- Biology of diseases associated with aging.
Contact Details:
+263777612181
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Name: Ms. Tryphine V. Tinago
Position: Teaching Assistant
Qualifications:
- MSc in Biotechnology- Tomsk Polytechnic University, Russia
- BSc in Applied Biology and Biochemistry- NUST, Zimbabwe
Research Interests:
- Immunology
- Molecular biology
Contact Details:
0776436897
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Name: Ms Gillian Gumindoga
Qualifications:
- MSc degree in Biotechnology-University of Zimbabwe
- BSc Honours degree in Biochemistry- University of Zimbabwe
Research Interests:
- Drug development from natural products, with a special focus of poultry disease treatment
Contact Details:
263774 284 654
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Name: Mr Ezekiel Majoma
Position: Temporary Full-Time Junior Lecturer
Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Applied Biochemistry - University of Mostaganem (Algeria)
- Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry - University of Mostaganem (Algeria)
Research Interests:
My research interests focus on biochemical approaches to understanding disease mechanisms and developing therapeutics. I am particularly interested in studying nutrient metabolism pathways and their impact on health, exploring how these pathways influence disease development and progression. By integrating these areas, I aim to identify novel therapeutic targets for improving health outcomes.
Contact Details:
0786099481
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Name: Ms Tonderai F. Harirari
Position: Temporary Full-time Lecturer
Qualifications:
- MSc, Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology (NUST)
- BSc (Hons), Applied Biology and Biochemistry (NUST)
Research Interests:
My main research interest lies in the One Health approach of understanding and addressing the growing issue of Antimicrobial Resistance in the clinical, veterinary and environmental settings. I am particularly interested in investigating the mechanism of resistance and the transmission of resistance to improve healthcare outcomes to both humans and animals. My other interests are Infectious Diseases and, Ethnobotany.
Contact Details:
+263717689706
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Name:Ms Annah Mashonganyika
Qualifications:
- Bsc Hons Biochemistry
- Msc Biotechnology and Genomics
Research Interests:
My current research interests in molecular biology include the isolation of bacteriophages and potential use inphage therapy and the production of DNA ladders from bacteriophages using enzymes. I am also keen on plant sciences including studying the potential use of bioactive compounds.
Contact Details:
0774408923
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Name: Ms Prisca Nonceba Ncube
Position: Temporary Full-time Lecturer
Qualifications:
- MSc Genomics and Biotechnology (University of Zimbabwe)
- BSc Biochemistry (University of Zimbabwe)
Research Interests:
Research interests span both microbiology, with a focus on antimicrobial resistance, as well as pharmacology and metabolism, exploring the potential therapeutic applications of natural plant compounds, identifying natural remedies that could help manage metabolic disorders like diabetes.
Contact Details:
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+263783568157
Name: Ms T. P. Maranjisi
Position: Temporary Full-Time Lecturer
Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in Applied Biology and Biochemistry from the National University of Science and Technology
- Postgraduate certificate in Biomedical Laboratory Technologies from Chinhoyi University of Technology
- Master of Science degree in Immunology and Vaccinology from the University of Zimbabwe
Research Interests:
Exploring the complexities of the human immune system and its interactions with infectious diseases. Which involve studying the mechanisms and pathways involved in the body's immune response to various pathogens, as well as investigating how diseases can modulate or evade the immune system.Vaccine development, focusing on designing, testing, and evaluating new vaccine candidates. Research on vaccine formulations, delivery methods, and the immunological responses generated by different vaccine approaches.Immunogenomics, the study of how genetic factors influence the immune system and its functions. Investigating the genetic basis of immune-related disorders, identifying genetic markers associated with immune responses, and exploring the potential of personalized or precision immunotherapies.
Contact Details:
+263775653387
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Name: Ms Melisa Nomalanga Sithole
Qualifications:
- Undergraduate degree in Biochemistry (UZ)
- Master's in Biotechnology (UZ)
Research Interests:
My research interests primarily revolve around molecular biology, vaccine development and biomanufacturing of biologics. I am particularly intrigued by the molecular mechanisms governing the immune response and how we can utilise this knowledge this knowledge to develop more effective and safe recombinant biotechnology vaccines.My expertise in recombinant DNA technology, gene expression and protein engineering has been instrumental in my molecular research. I am deeply invested in biomanufacturing of biologics such as therapeutic proteins and monoclonal antibodies. I am interested in the development of scalable, cost effective and GMP compliant production platforms. My work in this area leverages my knowledge in upstream production, protein folding and downstream purification techniques of biologics.
Contact Details:
0773574897
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Name: Mr Mathias Dururu
Qualifications:
- MSc Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology, University of Zimbabwe
- BSc Biological Sciences (Tropical Disease Biology), Chinhoyi University of Technology
Research Interests:
Microbiology, Cell Biology and Biotechnology
I am a dedicated researcher with a profound interest in exploring the intricate mechanisms governing microbial life at the cellular level, leveraging insights to advance biotechnological applications. My interdisciplinary approach integrates principles from Microbiology, Cell Biology, and Biotechnology to address fundamental questions and practical challenges in these fields.I am passionate about harnessing microbial diversity and cellular processes for biotechnological advancements. My work focuses on developing novel biocatalysts, biomaterials, and biopharmaceuticals through genetic engineering, synthetic biology, and metabolic engineering approaches.
I explore the roles of microorganisms in environmental sustainability and industrial processes. My research aims to optimize microbial bioremediation strategies, biofuel production, and waste valorization, contributing to both environmental stewardship and industrial efficiency.Looking ahead, I am keen to explore the potential of microbiomes in human health, agriculture, and ecological restoration. Integrating advanced computational and bioinformatic approaches will further enhance my ability to decipher complex microbial systems and their interactions.
My overarching goal is to contribute to the forefront of Microbiology, Cell Biology, and Biotechnology by generating knowledge that transcends disciplinary boundaries and addresses global challenges. I am committed to collaborative research efforts that foster innovation, sustainability, and societal impact.
Contact Details:
+263 779 532 221
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Name: Mr. T.W. Mumvuma
Qualifications:
- MSc in Biotechnology and Genomics (UZ)
- BSc in Applied Biosciences and Biotechnology (MSU)
Research Interests:
Contact Details:
0775 811 826
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Name:Mr Kudzai Ngonidzashe Fambisai
Qualifications:
- BSc Applied Biosciences and Biotechnology Midlands State University
- MSc Immunology and Vaccinology University of Zimbabwe
Research Interests:
As a graduate in Immunology and Vaccinology, I desire to pursue with my studies towards human vaccine development, natural products and oncology.
Contact Details:
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0782082448
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Name: Mr Davy Shito
Qualifications:
- BSc Honours Sociology
- Post-Graduate Diploma in Industrial Relations
Contact Details:
0778590581
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Name: Mrs Nancy Nyawiri
Qualifications:
Contact Details:
0773989353
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Name: Mrs Josephine Mapingire
Qualifications:
- BSc in Biochemistry & Biological Sciences,
- ICSA
- MBA
Research Interests:
Nutrition and Natural Products
Contact Details:
0774196644
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Name: Mr Stanley Rufaro Mushipe
Research Interests:
Contact Details:
0771664592
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Name: Mr Alfred Muzaka
Qualifications:
- BSc Honors in Chemical Technology
- HND in Applied Chemical Technology
Research Interests:
Be part of an established research group. i.e. Nutritional biochemistry and analysis of bioactive compounds in underutilized plants. Natural Products and Biochemical Pharmacology. Nutrition and Dietetics. Molecular Biology and Biotechnology.
Contact Details:
0773828356
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Name: Mr Z.Mugwira
Position: Senior Technician
Research Interests:
Immunology
Contact Details:
0773016005
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Name: Mr Hillary Zharo
Qualifications:
- BSc. Agric Honours in Animal Science,
- Dip in Applied Biological Technology,
- NC Laboratory Science and Technology,
- PC Maintenance and Servicing,
- Basic Electronics
Research Interests:
- Biotechnology and Molecular Biology
Contact Details:
+26377758444
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Name: Mr Aaron Katerere
Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Technology in Food Science and Technology
Research Interests:
Immunology
Contact Details:
0773024043
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Name: Ms Nomsa Chikuni
Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Technology in Food Science and Technology
Research Interests:
- Nutrition and Natural Products
Contact Details:
0775005013
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Name: Mr Gift Fellow
Research Interests:
Contact Details:
0774084924
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Name: Mr Godfrey Sithole
Research Interests:
Contact Details:
0773228741
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Name: Ms Moilar Muwomo
Contact Details:
0773783733
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Name: Mr Taitos Museza
Contact Details:
0712526722
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Name: Mr Taitos Museza
Contact Details:
0712526722
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