Prof Collen Masimirembwa

Collen Masimirembwa is a Zimbabwean pharmacogenomics researcher and founder of the African Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology. His work advances precision medicine in African populations, with a strong focus on translating genomic science into clinical and public health practice. He has played a leading role in initiatives promoting equitable inclusion of African genomic diversity in global research.

His publications highlight expertise in pharmacogenetics of key drug-metabolizing enzymes, including CYP2D6 and CYP3A5, and their impact on therapies such as tacrolimus, antidepressants, and oncology treatments. Studies on doxorubicin cardiotoxicity and pre-emptive pharmacogenetic screening underscore a commitment to safer, genotype-guided prescribing tailored to African populations.

Beyond pharmacology, his research spans cancer genomics, microbiome studies, forensic genetics, and population health trends in Zimbabwe. Contributions to single-cell genomics capacity building and continental collaborations such as SickleInAfrica reflect leadership in strengthening biomedical research ecosystems across low- and middle-income countries.