Mirko Ancillotti is a researcher in bioethics and public health, with a strong focus on the societal and ethical dimensions of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Based at Uppsala University and the Centre for Antibiotic Resistance Research (CARe) at the University of Gothenburg, his work explores how values, behaviors, and norms shape responses to AMR across different populations. Drawing on qualitative and quantitative methods, he investigates moral responsibility, public engagement, and policy-relevant strategies to support responsible antibiotic use. Currently, Mirko leads a three-year interdisciplinary project funded by the Swedish Research Council, promoting socially just and context-sensitive approaches to AMR within the One Health framework. He also contributes as Ethics Advisor to EU-funded biomedical research initiatives and frequently collaborates on educational and youth-led AMR programs. With a background in philosophy and a PhD in medical science, he bridges ethical theory and global health practice.
Dr. Vivian Chemweno is a Veterinarian and One Health Specialist with extensive expertise in infectious disease surveillance, epidemic and pandemic preparedness, outbreak response, and global health security. She holds a Master of Science in Applied Microbiology (Virology) and a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Nairobi.
Dr. Chemweno has provided technical expertise and strategic guidance in the prevention, detection, and control of zoonotic and infectious diseases. Her work spans surveillance system strengthening, outbreak investigation and response, joint risk assessment, risk communication, and community engagement. She has collaborated with government institutions, communities, humanitarian organizations, and non-governmental agencies, playing a key role in developing epidemic preparedness and response strategies, capacity building of the One Health workforce, and fostering multi-sectoral collaboration to enhance health security at national and international levels.
Dr. Chemweno is committed to shaping health security policies, strengthening surveillance systems, and guiding outbreak preparedness and response efforts. She leverages her expertise to drive initiatives that enhance resilience against emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, ensuring a more coordinated, evidence-based, and sustainable approach to health security.
Lisa Nkatha Micheni is an accomplished Medical Microbiologist and educator with over 15 years of experience in higher education, research, and academic leadership. She holds a PhD in Medical Microbiology and currently serves as a Senior Lecturer at Pwani University. Her expertise lies in infectious disease transmission, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and community health. Her research contributions—published in numerous peer-reviewed journals—have significantly advanced understanding of drug-resistant pathogens and their implications for treatment and public health. Beyond academia, she works closely with health authorities and local organizations to translate research into community-based initiatives that promote responsible antibiotic use and raise awareness of AMR.
Through her impactful teaching and mentorship of young researchers across East Africa, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence and the development of the next generation of scientists. As a member of the Scientific Advisory Board at the Zihi Institute, she plays a key role in shaping research priorities and community engagement strategies. Her visionary leadership and scientific acumen make her an invaluable contributor to the Institute’s mission of advancing health and well-being across the region.
