Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 10/1/2026 12:00:00 AM
Sharon Sawe, MSc, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
What is your favorite part of being a member of the LMIC Accelerator?
Getting mentorship from experienced members of ASCPT has helped me think beyond my capabilities and dream even bigger. Shout out to Dr. Jackson Burton, Dr. Karen Rowland Yeo, Prof. Rob van Wijk, and the team! The opportunity to attend the Annual Meeting was a great experience, allowing me to network with colleagues at different stages of their careers and to meet fellow LMIC Accelerator participants. It was inspiring to see how each of them is conducting interesting research in their respective settings. I am very thankful to ASCPT for such an important initiative that gives us exposure to how the rest of the world is contributing to global health through clinical pharmacology and translational science.
How does being a member of ASCPT help to connect with the global clinical pharmacology community?
It gives me access to exclusive webinars on a variety of interesting topics in clinical pharmacology, as well as opportunities to join different communities and identity groups with shared goals of improving patients' lives through pharmacology research and scientific innovation. Through these platforms, I have met some of the most prominent figures in the field, particularly in quantitative pharmacology, which is my area of interest.
What was your childhood dream job?
I always wanted to be a medical doctor, but I did not get into medical school. Instead, I chose the route of biostatistics, as I was always interested in clinical research. I eventually pursued a PhD in pharmacometrics, and now I get to collaborate with medical doctors in clinical pharmacology and contribute to improving the lives of patients through research. It has all come full circle!
What has been the greatest challenge in your career?
Doing my PhD away from my family, especially my son, has been the greatest challenge. When I joined the pharmacometrics PhD program in Cape Town, South Africa, in 2022, my son was just 18 months old and remained home in Nairobi, Kenya. At the same time, the PhD learning curve was not easy. Now, I am in the final stretch, and I am so proud that I made it. It has not been easy, but I am very thankful for my husband, who has been a present father and my greatest supporter.
When you are not working, how do you spend your free time?
I enjoy running, hiking, and being in nature. It helps me recharge. When I am at home, spending time with my family and friends brings me joy.
Sharon has been a member of ASCPT since 2025.
