Dr. Haruna Muwonge
Lecturer Department of Physiology, Research Scientist at Makerere University Lung Institute
School: Biomedical Sciences
Department: Physiology
Dr. Haruna Muwonge is a lecturer in the Department of Physiology at Makerere University College of Health Sciences. He offers his students and colleagues extensive knowledge in biomedical research spanning over ten years. Dr. Muwonge graduated from Makerere University in 2008 with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery. Motivated by an ardent interest in physiology, he pursued and successfully completed a Master of Science program in Physiology at the same university in 2012. In 2017, he received his PhD in Physiology & Molecular Biology from the University of Bergen, Norway, marking the pinnacle of his academic career.
Dr. Muwonge's research interests are both diverse and impactful, encompassing significant contributions to the study of infectious diseases, particularly Ebola and COVID-19. His doctoral research focused on novel cAMP binding proteins and their roles in liver regeneration and stress responses, providing a strong foundation for his subsequent work in infectious diseases. As a recipient of the prestigious Nurture/NIH post-doctoral fellowship, Dr. Muwonge explored the potential applications of microRNAs in the early detection and monitoring of Epidemic Kaposi's Sarcoma, broadening his expertise in microRNA-based diagnostics and therapeutics. In his current role, Dr. Muwonge serves as a principal investigator and co-investigator on numerous research projects funded by the NIH, Africa CDC, and Makerere Research and Innovation Fund.
His notable projects include investigations into Ebola virus transmission and humoral immune responses, the safety and efficacy of malaria treatments in COVID-19 patients, and the development of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. These studies not only advance our understanding of disease mechanisms but also contribute to the development of innovative therapeutic and preventive strategies. Dr. Muwonge's commitment to research is paralleled by his dedication to teaching and mentorship.
As a lecturer, Dr. Muwonge instructs both undergraduate and postgraduate students in basic and advanced physiological topics. His courses cover a wide range of subjects, from cardiovascular and respiratory physiology to neurophysiology and reproductive system physiology. Dr. Muwonge has also played a pivotal role in mentoring the next generation of scientists in research. He has successfully supervised and guided several graduate students through their academic journeys. To date, he has supervised 7 Master's students' research to completion and is currently mentoring 9 PhD students and 5 Master’s students.
In addition to his academic responsibilities, Dr. Muwonge is a Research Scientist at the Makerere University Lung Institute, where he continues to contribute significantly to research on respiratory diseases as well as emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. Beyond his academic and research endeavors, Dr. Muwonge actively participates in various professional and community service roles. He is a member of several committees at the School of Biomedical Sciences, including the Research Ethics Committee and the Higher Degrees Doctoral Committee. Additionally, he has played a key role in developing curricula for new academic programs and has served as an external examiner for multiple universities. Dr. Muwonge's contributions to science are well-documented in his numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Contact Information:
- Email: harunamuwonge@gmail.com
- Alternate email: haruna.muwonge@mak.ac.ug
Research and Publications
Social Media
- Facebook: Haruna Muwonge