Francis Mwimanzi

I am physician researcher who is an expert in virology and immunology. I have been involved in a diverse range of studies investigating host–virus interactions that modulate HIV pathogenesis and, more recently, the immune response to COVID-19 vaccines. Originally from Tanzania, I previously worked as a physician at Muhimbili National Hospital, where I was exposed to the devastating effects of HIV and AIDS on his community. Since then, I have been committed to improving the lives of people living with HIV, with an overall goal of helping to develop an HIV vaccine. My PhD focused on understanding the immune pathology of HIV, employing molecular and cellular methods, to study host and viral proteins in order to define their contribution to clinical outcome. Over the past couple of years, my research has pivoted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. My current research uses molecular, cellular, genetic, bioinformatics methods to study immune responses against SARS-CoV-2. I have authored 14 papers and 25 abstracts. I am also a recipient CIHR HIV Canadian Trials Network and Michael Smith Health Research BC postdoctoral fellowships.