Violet Nyasha Chihota

Violet Nyasha Chihota's work experience includes holding the position of Chief Specialist Scientist at The Aurum Institute since June 2021. Previously, they worked as the Lead Senior Scientific Officer at The Aurum Institute from November 2018 to April 2022. In addition, they served as an Adjunct Associate Professor at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine starting in August 2020. Prior to that, they were a Senior Scientific Officer at FIND from November 2016 to October 2018. Violet Nyasha also held various roles at The Aurum Institute, including Director of Implementation Research Division from January 2016 to October 2016, Deputy Director of Epidemiology from an unknown start date to December 2015, and Research Manager from December 2005 to January 2011. Before joining The Aurum Institute, they were a Wellcome Trust Research Fellow at the University of Stellenbosch from June 2002 to November 2005. Violet Nyasha'searlier experience includes working as a Lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe, College of Health Sciences from July 1997 to May 2002, where they taught infectious diseases and conducted research on early detection and treatment of various diseases.

Violet Nyasha Chihota has an extensive education history. Violet Nyasha started their academic journey in 1987 at the University of Zimbabwe, where they pursued a Bachelor of Science with Honors (BSc(Hons)) in Biological Sciences, focusing on Microbiology and Genetics. After completing their undergraduate degree, they went on to further their studies at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, U. of London. In 1994-1995, they obtained a Master of Science (MSc) in Medical Microbiology with a specialization in Bacteriology.

Violet's passion for scientific research and epidemiology led their to pursue a doctoral degree. From 2005 to 2010, they enrolled at Stellenbosch University, where they obtained a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Medical Biochemistry, specializing in TB Molecular Epidemiology. This advanced degree showcased their expertise in the intersection of medical biochemistry and tuberculosis research.

In 2010, Violet expanded their knowledge base by attending The Johns Hopkins University for a certificate course in Epidemiology and Biostatistics. While the duration of this program was short, it provided their with valuable insights into the fields of epidemiology and biostatistics.

Violet Nyasha Chihota's educational journey demonstrates their dedication to acquiring expertise in the areas of microbiology, genetics, medical biochemistry, bacteriology, and TB molecular epidemiology.