Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 9/1/2026 12:00:00 AM
Tesfaye Hailemariam, PhD, Early Career Researcher, Addis Ababa University and Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
What is your favorite part of being part of the LMIC Accelerator Cohort?
My favorite aspect of the LMIC Accelerator Cohort is the opportunity to engage with a diverse and highly motivated group of scientists who are committed to advancing clinical pharmacology in resource-limited settings. The program fosters meaningful mentorship, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, while also empowering us to translate science into solutions that address real-world health challenges in our regions.
Why did you become a member of ASCPT?
I joined ASCPT to be part of a global community that is shaping the future of clinical pharmacology, particularly in areas such as pharmacogenomics, pharmacometrics, and precision medicine. The Society provides a unique platform where scientific innovation meets clinical application, which aligns closely with my career goals in translational research.
How does being a member of ASCPT help you connect with the global clinical pharmacology community?
ASCPT provides invaluable opportunities to connect with leading experts and peers through conferences, training programs, and collaborative initiatives. It allows me to stay engaged with cutting-edge developments while also contributing perspectives from low- and middle-income countries, fostering a more inclusive and globally relevant scientific dialogue.
What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my PhD research, where I applied genomics and transciptomics approaches to understand drug response variability in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This work contributed to identifying key molecular pathways associated with treatment outcomes and has potential implications for improving therapeutic strategies. Being selected as a member of the 2026 LMIC Accelerator Cohort is also a significant milestone in my career.
Who has inspired you in your career?
I have been inspired by mentors and colleagues who are committed to advancing science in challenging environments. Their resilience, curiosity, and dedication to improving patient outcomes – often with limited resources – have shaped my own approach to research and leadership.
What has been the greatest challenge in your career?
Conducting advanced genomics research in resource-limited settings has been one of my greatest challenges. Limited infrastructure and access to specialized training can slow progress, but these challenges have also driven me to seek international collaborations, continuously build my skills, and contribute to strengthening research capacity in my region.
Do you have a favorite tip or trick for clinical practice or research that you want to share with fellow members?
One key lesson I have learned is the importance of integrating different data types – genomics, transcriptomics, and clinical data – to gain a more comprehensive understanding of drug response. Even in resource-limited settings, thoughtful data integrations can yield powerful insights.
What is your favorite Society memory?
One of my favorite experiences has been engaging with the ASCPT community through the LMIC Accelerator program, particularly the interactive sessions and discussions that bring together diverse perspectives from across the globe.
When you are not working, how do you spend your free time?
Outside of work, I enjoy reading, particularly in areas related to science, innovation, and global health. I also value spending time with family and friends, which helps me maintain balance and perspective.
How do you keep focused and motivated?
I stay motivated by keeping my long-term goals in mind – particularly my aspiration to contribute to precision medicine and improve health outcomes in underserved populations. Breaking larger goals into smaller, achievable steps also helps me stay focused and consistent.
What was your childhood dream job?
As a child, I was always curious about the mysterious science behind small drugs that influence in a positive or negative way on the physiology of an individual and how things work, which naturally evolved into a passion for healthcare and research. I aspired to pursue a career where I could contribute to improving people's lives, which ultimately led me to pharmacology.
What's one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
People might be surprised to learn that despite my strong focus on data and analytical work, I am deeply interested in the broader societal impact of science. I enjoy exploring how research can be translated into practical, real-world health solutions. I strongly believe that meaningful collaborations and the integration of diverse data sources are essential to addressing complex health challenges and generating impactful, sustainable solutions.
Dr. Hailemariam has been a member of ASCPT since 2025.
