Solomon Mwakasungula is a research scientist at the Ifakara Health Institute, with a passion for understanding the molecular epidemiology of infectious diseases. Armed with a Master's in Infection Biology from the University of Basel/Swiss TPH (2012-2014) and a Bachelor's in Biotechnology and Laboratory Sciences from Sokoine University of Agriculture (2005-2008), Solomon specializes in utilizing molecular, immunological, and diagnostic tools to comprehend disease dynamics and transmission pathways. His expertise extends to field disease surveillance, clinical trials, and comprehensive research spanning viral, bacterial, protozoan, and parasitic pathogens.

With a robust professional training portfolio, including Illumina Miseq and Oxford Nanopore sequencing technologies, Solomon is at the forefront of cutting-edge research methodologies. He has played pivotal roles in various impactful projects, ranging from tuberculosis epidemiology to vaccine trials for malaria and TB. Currently, Solomon leads multiple ongoing projects, such as COVID-19 serosurveillance in Zanzibar and evaluating zoonotic viral sharing in Tanzania's high-risk transmission interfaces. His dedication to multidisciplinary approaches and his commitment to public health underscore his invaluable contributions to infectious disease research and control.

In addition to his research endeavors, Solomon actively engages in training and mentoring junior staff, contributing to the advancement of laboratory practices and ensuring the sustainability of research initiatives. His work exemplifies a holistic approach to addressing complex public health challenges, making significant strides towards mitigating the burden of infectious diseases in Tanzania and beyond.