EpiScientia Community
Meet the people behind the network — trainees, mentors, faculty and members across Europe and Africa who chose to share their profile with the community.
26 of 26 members sharing their profile

Abdulaziz Usman Hebo
ResearcherParadise Valley College
I'm Abdulaziz Usman I graduate from paradise Valley College in Medical Laboratory Technologist, now I'm working at Dodola General Hospital (Government hospital) I have 4 years experience in MLT
Bekan Gudata Gindaba
memberWollega University
I am Bekan Gudata Gindaba, a Lecturer and Senior Midwife at Wollega University Institute of Health Sciences, Ethiopia, and Head of the Department of Midwifery. I hold a BSc in Midwifery and an MSc in Maternity and Reproductive Health Nursing from Wollega University. My professional and research interests focus on maternal and reproductive health, midwifery care, pregnancy complications, menstrual health, and improving maternal and neonatal outcomes. I have experience in teaching, clinical practice, research, curriculum development, and internal quality assurance. I have contributed to several research projects and publications and am particularly interested in evidence-based practice, collaborative research, and translating research findings into improved maternal health services.
Biyansa Adugna Kabada
ResearcherEPHI
I am Dr. Biyansa Adugna Kabada, a veterinary public health and One Health researcher currently working as a Researcher in the Zoonotic Research Division of the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI), Ethiopia. I hold a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from Addis Ababa University and a Master of Public Health in Veterinary Public Health (One Health) from the University of Gondar. Through EpiScientia, I aim to further strengthen my advanced epidemiological, analytical, and scientific research skills and apply them to high-priority public health challenges in Ethiopia and beyond.

Charles Ruranga
facultyUniversity of Rwanda
Prof. Charles Ruranga is a Professor of Econometrics at the University of Rwanda and has served as the Director of the African Centre of Excellence in Data Science (ACE-DS) since 2017. He holds a PhD in Statistics (Econometrics) from Makerere University and an MSc in Economics from Université de Montréal. Prof. Charles has experience of over 20 years in academia, research, grant development and management, and consultancy. Prof. Ruranga has contributed significantly to data science and evidence-based policy research in Rwanda and beyond. He has led many research grants as Principal Investigator including World Bank-funded project for the establishment of ACE-DS, the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) funding for the LAISDAR project (Grant No. 109587-001) and the European Commission EpiScientia Network Project. He continues to lead multidisciplinary research projects and promote the use of data science and advanced analytical methods to address development challenges. Prof. Charles has extensive international collaboration experience through research partnerships, academic exchanges, conferences, training programmes, and joint projects with universities and international organizations. He has participated in international initiatives involving the World Bank, IDRC, European Commission, Mastercard Foundation, and other partners. His research interests include policy analysis, data analytics, econometrics, statistics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning applications. He has published more than 30 peer-reviewed papers covering areas such as economics, public health, education, financial risk, and data science. Prof. Charles has extensive experience in postgraduate supervision, having supervised five PhD students, 17 MSc students, and many BSc students.

Daniel Nsanzabandi
memberRTSL
I am a data scientist with expertise spanning healthcare, public sector, education, and business analytics combining machine learning, implementation research, and decision-support systems to drive evidence-based decisions at scale. I specialize in transforming complex, messy real-world data into actionable insights, whether for national health programs, academic institutions, or private-sector clients.

Dawit Sekata Duressa
facultyEthiopian Public Health Institute
Dawit Sekata Duressa is an Ethiopian biostatistician and public health researcher with over 15 years of experience in biostatistics, health data management, epidemiology, and health research. He serves as the Senior Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Surveillance Data Manager at the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI), where he contributes to strengthening laboratory-based AMR surveillance, data quality, statistical analysis, and evidence-informed public health decision-making. He holds a BSc in Statistics from Hawassa University and an MSc in Biostatistics from Jimma University, Ethiopia, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Biostatistics. His professional and research interests include antimicrobial resistance surveillance, epidemiology, statistical modeling, maternal and child health, infectious diseases, and health systems research. He has expertise in R, Python, SAS, Stata, SPSS, WHONET, and electronic data collection and management platforms. His professional interests focus on translating health data into actionable evidence, strengthening data-driven public health programs, building data management and analytical capacity, and contributing to improved health outcomes through research, collaboration, and professional service.

EpiScientia Registrar AI Agent (Automated Tasks Managment)
facultyAfrican Center Of Excellence in Data Sciences - University of Rwanda
Registrar at the African Centre of Excellence in Data Science, University of Rwanda, supporting effective academic administration and institutional coordination. Committed to strengthening student services and advancing excellence in data-science education and research.

Farid Olatounde ALLY
facultyIRSP-CAQ
I am a physician with a Master of Public Health and a PhD in applied epidemiology and health data science. Based in Benin and affiliated with the Institut Régional de Santé Publique Comlan Alfred Quenum (IRSP-CAQ), my work focuses on public-health research, health-data analysis, vaccination, infectious-disease surveillance and health-system strengthening in resource-limited settings. I use quantitative methods and digital tools to transform health data into actionable evidence for public-health decision-making. I have also contributed to short public-health training programmes and capacity-building activities for health professionals. Through the EpiScientia community, I hope to exchange practical experiences, collaborate on applied research and contribute to initiatives connecting epidemiology, data science and public-health action.

Getahun Tulu Amante
ResearcherADHC
Getahun Tulu Amante is a public health and anesthesia professional from Ethiopia with a Master of Public Health in Reproductive Health, a BSc in Anesthesia, and a BSc in Health Education and Promotion. He has extensive experience in anesthesia service delivery, clinical nursing, reproductive health, health education, and project management. He currently serves as a Chief Anesthesia Professional and has contributed to youth-friendly reproductive health initiatives, including establishing a Youth Friendly Reproductive Health Services Club at Shambu High School. His professional interests include public health, reproductive health, community health promotion, health systems, and research. He has also contributed to research on maternal delays and associated factors in institutional delivery and has a manuscript under review.

Habtamu Melaku Erena
memberkebena health center, addis ababa, Ethiopia
Over the past four years, I am actively involved in directing primary healthcare units in different part of Ethiopia. My Proven experience in track record in optimizing operational management, stabilizing pharmaceutical supply chains, maintaining strict budgetary controls, and leading pediatric nutrition interventions (IMNCI, OTP, and Stabilization Centers). Currently, I am highly experienced in HIV clinical coordination and mentoring comprehensive HIV/AIDS care and treatment and manage other infectious disease and non- infection control and treatment, complex ART regimen, AHD and routine viral load management and strategies for retention care with optimal adherence in health facility on clinical strict to standards and quality of care for patient. Incoming MSc Candidate in Healthcare Quality need for strong clinical expertise and health systems leadership to drive large-scale and high-impact public health programs.

Jean De Dieu Ruhingika
facultyHeritage Research and Development Labs Ltd
Am a seasoned finance professional and Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with extensive experience in auditing, financial management, accounting, budgeting, reporting, and fiduciary oversight of donor-funded development projects. I support the financial planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of strategic projects funded by international development partners, including the World Bank, Mastercard Foundation, KfW, ENABEL, and GIZ, Africa Development Bank, European Union, etc.…... With a strong background spanning both the public and higher education sectors, I have built expertise in financial analysis, project finance, risk management, internal controls, audit coordination, and compliance with international financial reporting standards and donor requirements. Am recognized for my ability to establish robust financial systems, enhance accountability, and provide insightful financial information that supports effective decision-making. Beyond my technical expertise, am passionate about project management, organizational performance improvement, and capacity building. I contributed to the development of financial management frameworks, performance scorecards, risk registers, and training materials aimed at strengthening institutional effectiveness and project delivery. I continuously invest in professional development through internationally recognized certifications and training programs in finance, risk management, project management, and governance. My career objective is to leverage my financial leadership, analytical skills, and strategic mindset to support sustainable development initiatives, strengthen organizational performance, and create lasting economic and social impact across Africa. Am committed to excellence, integrity, innovation, and lifelong learning in every professional endeavor.

Levine Barno
memberKEMRI-Wellcom Trust
An early career Biostatistician enthustiastic about epidemiological data analysis for informed decision making.

Lina Alemayehu Lulu
ResearcherSt. Paul's Millennium Medical College
I am Lina Alemayehu, an MPH candidate at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. My academic and practical work focuses on epidemiology, biostatistics, and infectious‑disease surveillance. I have experience in data collection, survey design, data entry, basic analysis with Excel/SPSS/Stata/R, and lab work. I am interested in strengthening my skills in health data science and biostatistics through the EpiScientia Network to contribute to evidence‑based public‑health decision‑making in Ethiopia.

MURERENTE Cecile
memberUniversity of Rwanda
I am a dedicated and hardworking Laboratory Technician working in a health center, where I contribute to the diagnosis, prevention, and management of diseases through accurate laboratory testing. My role involves collecting and processing patient specimens, performing laboratory investigations, recording and interpreting results, and ensuring that results are reported accurately and on time. I work in different areas of laboratory practice, including hematology, clinical chemistry, microbiology, parasitology, and other routine diagnostic services. I understand the importance of maintaining quality standards, following standard operating procedures, practicing infection prevention and control, and handling laboratory equipment and specimens safely. Working in a health center has helped me develop good communication, teamwork, attention to detail, and professional responsibility. I work closely with other healthcare professionals to support appropriate patient care and contribute to better health outcomes. I am passionate about laboratory medicine and continuously seek opportunities to improve my knowledge and practical skills. I am committed to providing reliable laboratory services, maintaining confidentiality, respecting patients, and upholding professional ethics. My goal is to continue developing as a laboratory professional while making a meaningful contribution to healthcare in my community.

Marie Laurence Igihozo Ganza
facultyHeritage Alliance
International Business Management student with a growing interest in health, data science, and technology. Passionate about using data-driven insights to understand real-world health challenges and develop practical solutions. Curious, organized, and eager to learn through collaborative projects that connect business, data, and healthcare.

Mebrahtu Tareke Mengesha
ResearcherRwanda
BSc Nurse and Epidemiologist and I am Health System Strengthening Technical Advisor and Public Health Emergency Management Coordinator in Ministry of Health Ethiopia.
NKURUNZIZA Innocent
traineeGISENYI HOSPITAL
Am an ICT Officer at Gisenyi Hospital from 2011

Obsan Rorisa
ResearcherEthiopian Health Insurance Service (EHIS)
I am Quality Assurance Senior expert at Ethiopian Health Insurance Service Adama Branch

Roger Mallol Parera
memberIDIAP Jordi Gol · Universitat Rovira i Virgili
I consider myself a biomedical data scientist passionate about contributing to our understanding of health and disease states and teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels. More formally, I lead the Primary Care, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (ARCADIA) Research Group at IDIAP Jordi Gol and I am an Adjunct Professor at the Department of Computer Science and Mathematics at Rovira i Virgili University.
Sezirahiga Eugene
memberNyamata Level 2 Teaching Hospital
Information Technologist (IT) by professional. Working in the Health information System setting, I have knowledge in Leadership by training. I am pursuing some skills in data science in health environment

Sèna Yannick AYIHOU
memberUniversity of Abomey-Calavi (UAC)

Theogene TUYISHIME
memberUniversity of Rwanda · Mount Kenya University
I am a passionate healthcare professional possessing strong research skills and Data Manager Statistician with the all required qualities and many Certificates
WADOUM TUEN Yatric Varel
ResearcherAIMS Cameroon · University of Dschang
Applied mathematician translating complex equations into concrete solutions for public health and biology. Holder of two Master’s degrees in Applied Mathematics (Orthogonal Polynomials / Facial Recognition & Epi demiological Modelling), I leverage data analysis, optimal control, and AI to predict and contain the spread of infectious diseases such as avian influenza and malaria. Currently interning at Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, applying probabilistic classification methods to arbovirus serology. My goal is to become a biostatistician to help Public Health make decisions to combat epidemics and endemic diseases in Africa.
Zelalem Melese
memberDebre Markos University
In my current role as Data Quality Manager for Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital cooperation with Emory University SLL360 (Saving Little Lives 360) Project, I direct data integration, manage electronic health registries, and enforce rigorous quality assurance protocols across a hub-and-spoke clinical network. Prior to this, as Regional MEL Advisor for the ICAP/PMI-USAID project, I spearheaded regional Data Quality Assessments (DQAs), optimized DHIS2 data workflows, and performed routine disease surveillance analytics using Python, STATA, SPSS, and Power BI.

Zemene Worku Adugna
ResearcherEthiopian Public Health Institute
I am Zemene Worku, BSc in Health Informatics, MPH in Field Epidemiology, working in Surveillance and Disease Intelligence at the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI), within the Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) and Early Warning and Surveillance Directorate. My professional work focuses on strengthening public health surveillance, disease intelligence, data quality, outbreak preparedness, and evidence-based decision-making. I have experience working with DHIS2, Power BI, R, R Markdown, Python, Excel, ArcGIS/ArcMap, and other digital health and data analytics tools. I am particularly interested in transforming routine surveillance data into meaningful information that supports timely detection of public health threats, monitoring of surveillance performance, and effective response to outbreaks and emergencies. I am also passionate about health information systems, surveillance data management, data quality improvement, automation, epidemiological analysis, and knowledge translation. One of my key interests is automating routine surveillance reporting and developing practical dashboards and analytical tools that reduce manual work and improve the quality and timeliness of public health information. My goal is to contribute to stronger, data-driven public health systems in Ethiopia and to continuously develop my skills in epidemiology, digital health, data science, and health information management.

Zerea Dawit
ResearcherUniversity of Rwanda
I am a recent high school graduate from Ethiopia with a strong interest in technology, data, business, and digital innovation. I have experience in data analysis, digital content creation, video editing, and teamwork through academic, extracurricular, and community activities. I am passionate about learning how technology and data can be used to solve real-world problems and improve people’s lives. I am eager to develop my knowledge, connect with other young professionals and researchers, and explore opportunities in digital health and innovation.


