Julius Mulindwa | Genomic Data Analytics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Julius Mulindwa | Genomic Data Analytics | Best Researcher Award

Makerere University | Uganda

Dr. Julius Mulindwa is a distinguished molecular biologist and senior lecturer at Makerere University, Uganda, with extensive expertise in biochemistry, molecular biology, and bioinformatics. His career spans research, teaching, and mentoring, contributing significantly to advancements in vaccine research, neglected tropical diseases, and microbiome studies. With a strong background in human and animal genetics, he has pioneered initiatives in molecular diagnostics, vaccine development, and genetic determinants of infectious diseases. Dr. Mulindwa has been instrumental in capacity building for bioinformatics and molecular biology in Africa, guiding multiple postgraduate research projects and leading innovative programs to combat infectious diseases and improve public health outcomes.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Dr. Mulindwa holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology and a Master’s degree in Cell Biology from Heidelberg University, Germany, and an MSc in Molecular Biology and a BSc in Biochemistry and Chemistry from Makerere University, Uganda. His academic journey laid a solid foundation for his expertise in functional genomics, transcriptomics, and recombinant protein expression, equipping him with a multidisciplinary skill set to bridge molecular research and applied biomedical sciences.

Experience

With over a decade of professional experience, Dr. Mulindwa has served as a Senior Lecturer, Lecturer, and Assistant Lecturer at Makerere University, where he teaches biochemistry, molecular biology, bioinformatics, and parasitology across multiple colleges, including Natural Sciences, Veterinary Medicine, and Health Sciences. He has designed and supervised laboratory experiments, developed curricula, and mentored numerous undergraduate, MSc, and Ph.D. students. As a researcher, he has led and contributed to several national and international projects focusing on infectious diseases, genetic determinants of trypanosomiasis, vaccine development for COVID-19, and microbiome research in endemic regions. His work also extends to training and facilitating bioinformatics programs across East Africa.

Research Interests

Dr. Mulindwa’s research focuses on molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neglected tropical diseases, host-pathogen interactions, and genetic resistance to infectious diseases. He has conducted extensive studies on trypanosomiasis, schistosomiasis, and other parasitic infections, employing techniques such as genome-wide association studies, transcriptomics, and microbiome analysis. Additionally, his research explores the role of gut microbiome in nutritional and disease status, the development of subunit vaccines, and the use of recombinant protein expression in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems. His expertise bridges laboratory research and translational science, contributing to improved diagnostics, therapeutic targets, and preventive strategies.

Awards and Recognitions

Throughout his career, Dr. Mulindwa has received numerous prestigious awards and fellowships recognizing his contributions to science and research. These include the Microbiome Travel Award from the Sanger Institute (Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation), Developing Country Award by the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG), multiple post-doctoral fellowships under TrypanoGEN and TrypanoGEN+ (Wellcome Trust-H3Africa), ASTMH annual meeting travel award, and competitive fellowships from the German Research Foundation (DFG) and HBIGS, Germany. These honors reflect his sustained impact in advancing molecular parasitology, bioinformatics, and public health research.

Publications

Nambala, P., Satoskar, A.R., Noyes, H., Namulondo, J., Nyangiri, O., Alibu, V.P., Nerima, B., MacLeod, A., Matovu, E., Musaya, J., et al. (2024). Transcriptome profiles of Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense in Malawi reveal focus specific gene expression profiles associated with pathology. PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases.

Nambala, P., Noyes, H., Namulondo, J., Nyangiri, O., Matovu, E., Alibu, V.P., Nerima, B., MacLeod, A., Musaya, J., Mulindwa, J., et al. (2023). Transcriptome profiles of T.b. rhodesiense in Malawi reveal focus specific gene expression profiles associated with pathology. Preprint.

Mulindwa, J., Webster, J.P., Namulondo, J., Kitibwa, A., Nassuuna, J., Nyangiri, O.A., Kimuda, M.P., Boobo, A., Nerima, B., Busingye, F., et al. (2022). High prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni infection and stunting among school age children in communities along the Albert-Nile, Northern Uganda: A cross-sectional study. PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases.

Nyangiri, O.A., Edwige, S.A., Koffi, M., Mewamba, E., Simo, G., Namulondo, J., Mulindwa, J., Nassuuna, J., Elliott, A., Karume, K., et al. (2021). Candidate gene family-based and case-control studies of susceptibility to high Schistosoma mansoni worm burden in African children: a protocol [version 2; peer review: 2 approved]. AAS Open Research.

Namulondo, J., Mulindwa, J., Nyangiri, O.A., Egesa, M., Noyes, H., Matovu, E., TrypanoGEN+ research group of the H3Africa consortium. (2021). Gene expression changes in mammalian hosts during schistosomiasis: a review [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]. AAS Open Research.

Conclusion

Dr. Julius Mulindwa is a leading scientist dedicated to bridging molecular research and applied biomedical solutions for neglected tropical diseases and emerging health challenges. His academic leadership, innovative research, and mentorship have strengthened molecular biology and bioinformatics capacity in Uganda and across Africa. By integrating advanced genomics, bioinformatics, and functional studies, his work continues to contribute to global scientific advancements in infectious disease control, vaccine development, and genetic epidemiology.

Rami Al-Rifai | Social Impact | Excellence in Research

Assoc Prof Dr. Rami Al-Rifai | Social Impact | Excellence in Research

 United Arab Emirates University | United Arab Emirates

Publication Profile

Scopus
Orcid
Google Scholar

INTRODUCTION 🏥

DR. RAMI AL-RIFAI is an Associate Professor of Epidemiology at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), where he has contributed significantly to public health research and education. A leader in the field of epidemiology, he has been recognized globally as one of the Top 2% most highly cited scientists from Stanford University for four consecutive years (2021-2024). Dr. Rami’s remarkable achievements span multiple facets of epidemiology, including infectious disease research, public health, and healthcare policy.

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 🎓

Dr. Rami’s academic journey began with his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Veterinary Medicine and Surgery from Jordan University of Science & Technology, completed in 2004 and 2007, respectively. His early training in medicine laid the foundation for his career in public health. He pursued a PhD in Public Health and Epidemiology from Tokyo Medical and Dental University, where he specialized in global health promotion. Upon completing his doctoral studies in 2014, Dr. Rami embarked on an illustrious career dedicated to advancing epidemiological research and teaching.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 🧑‍⚕️

Since joining UAE University in 2017, Dr. Rami has been instrumental in shaping the institution’s research environment. His roles include Associate Professor of Epidemiology, Director of the PhD Program in Public Health, and Deputy Director of the MPH program. Dr. Rami has not only been a dedicated educator but has also held leadership roles in national health initiatives, including contributing to critical COVID-19 epidemiology efforts in the UAE.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS  ON Social Impact🧬

Dr. Rami’s research spans both infectious and non-infectious diseases, with a particular emphasis on zoonotic diseases and their public health implications. His extensive portfolio includes 102 Scopus-indexed publications, with 89 of these published since joining UAEU. He also founded the Infectious Diseases Research Epidemiology Advancement Unit (IDERA) to further enhance research in infectious disease epidemiology across the UAE and beyond.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌍

Dr. Rami’s research and leadership have not only had a substantial impact in the UAE but have also gained global recognition. With over 3,500 citations on Google Scholar and an i10-index of 45, his work continues to shape the discourse on epidemiology worldwide. Dr. Rami has played pivotal roles in national health initiatives, guiding policy decisions and providing evidence-based recommendations to healthcare authorities in the UAE. His involvement in the Mutaba’ah Study, the UAE’s largest longitudinal birth cohort study, is a testament to his commitment to public health.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS 📚

Dr. Rami has consistently been one of the top Scopus-indexed publishers at UAEU’s College of Medicine and Health Sciences, ranking in the top five throughout various years. His research productivity has been exceptional, with his articles published in high-impact journals like Lancet and BMJ Open. His overall publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on producing high-quality, impactful research that contributes to global health advancements.

HONORS & AWARDS 🏅

  • Top 2% Highly Cited Scientist by Stanford University (2021–2024)
  • Excellence-Award-Winning Scholar from UAEU College of Medicine and Health Sciences (2020)
  • Google Scholar h-index: 25, i10-index: 49, with over 3,500 citations.
  • Ranked among the top Scopus-indexed publishers at UAEU from 2017-2024.

These accolades reflect the significant global impact of Dr. Rami’s contributions to epidemiology and public health.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🏆

Dr. Rami’s legacy will be defined by his continued research excellence, innovative contributions to epidemiological studies, and his role in shaping future leaders in public health. With ongoing projects focused on infectious diseases and public health policy, Dr. Rami is poised to leave a lasting mark on the field and inspire future generations to advance global health.

FINAL NOTE 🔍

Dr. Rami Al-Rifai’s career has been marked by an unwavering dedication to advancing the field of public health and epidemiology. His global recognition and commitment to training future public health leaders further solidify his status as a key figure in healthcare research. As a consultant, educator, and researcher, Dr. Rami continues to influence public health policies and initiatives not only in the UAE but across the world.

TOP NOTES PUBLICATIONS 📚

Gestational diabetes mellitus in Europe: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence studies

Authors: MS Paulo, NM Abdo, R Bettencourt-Silva, RH Al-Rifai
Journal: Frontiers in Endocrinology 🧑‍⚕️🔬
Volume: 12
Issue: 691033
Pages: 146
Year: 2021 📅

The global burden of cancer attributable to risk factors, 2010–19: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

Authors: KB Tran, JJ Lang, K Compton, R Xu, AR Acheson, HJ Henrikson, …
Journal: The Lancet 🌍📚
Volume: 400
Issue: 10352
Pages: 563-591
Year: 2022 📅

Global burden and strength of evidence for 88 risk factors in 204 countries and 811 subnational locations, 1990–2021: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease …

Authors: M Brauer, GA Roth, AY Aravkin, P Zheng, KH Abate, YH Abate, C Abbafati, …
Journal: The Lancet 🌍📚
Volume: 403
Issue: 10440
Pages: 2162-2203
Year: 2024 📅

Association between diabetes mellitus and active tuberculosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Authors: RH Al-Rifai, F Pearson, JA Critchley, LJ Abu-Raddad
Journal: PLoS One 🧑‍⚕️💡
Volume: 12
Issue: 11
Pages: e0187967
Year: 2017 📅

Prevalence, years lived with disability, and trends in anaemia burden by severity and cause, 1990–2021: findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

Authors: WM Gardner, C Razo, TA McHugh, H Hagins, VM Vilchis-Tella, …
Journal: The Lancet Haematology 🩸💉
Volume: 10
Issue: 9
Pages: e713-e734
Year: 2023 📅

Age–sex differences in the global burden of lower respiratory infections and risk factors, 1990–2019: results from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

Authors: HH Kyu, A Vongpradith, SB Sirota, A Novotney, CE Troeger, MC Doxey, …
Journal: The Lancet Infectious Diseases 🦠📚
Volume: 22
Issue: 11
Pages: 1626-1647
Year: 2022 📅