Franziska Bächler is the Scientific Director at the Centre for Life Sciences Law at the University of Basel in Switzerland. She is also a Postdoctoral Researcher pursuing her independent research in technology law from a private law perspective, as well as a lecturer in legal courses. She is also involved in several scientific committees and interdisciplinary projects. Before pursuing an academic career, she worked for many years as Senior Legal Counsel in the transaction department of a major pharmaceutical company, leading international projects and negotiations.
Amelie Wamba Ndongmo Regine is a biochemist and public health leader based in Yaoundé, Cameroon, holding a PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Yaoundé I. She explores molecular mechanisms of pyrethroid resistance in malaria vectors such as Anopheles funestus. A former coordinator of the African Gene Drive for Vector Control network, Amelie champions genetic biocontrol technologies and advocates for malaria prevention through the Global Fund Advocates Network. She is a Mandela Washington Fellow, fluent in English and French, and committed to ethical research and African public health advancement.
Thelma is a young scientist specializing in biotechnology and bioinformatics, with a keen interest in combining biological sciences with computational innovation. She is also an active science communicator, known for her blog articles on topics like machine learning in bioinformatics and orphan drugs for rare diseases. Thelma is passionate about using data-driven approaches to solve real-world challenges and is committed to making complex scientific ideas accessible to a broader audience.
Francesco merges a background in biotechnology and biomedicine with a focus on business strategy. Having pursued cutting-edge research at institutions such as University College London and the Center for Genomic Regulation, Fracesco advises organizations on sustainable biotech, healthcare, and bioeconomy projects. Driven by a passion for bridging science and business, he fosters collaborations that yield transformative solutions, addressing scientific, economic, and social priorities.
Thomas is an Assistant Professor of Biology with a strong background in teaching and capacity-building through TReND in Africa. By combining a passion for science with education for development, Tom furthers global health initiatives at Gene4All. Leveraging academic research expertise, international collaboration, and hands-on experience organizing genome editing courses in Africa, Thomas is dedicated to democratizing genetic research and ensuring communities worldwide benefit from innovative breakthroughs.
Ereck is the Network Manager of the AUDA-NEPAD Southern Africa Network for Biosciences (SANBio), a collaborative platform for research in health and nutrition across 13 African countries. He provides strategic leadership to advance the network’s vision and scale up successful bioscience initiatives. A scientist by training, Dr. Chakauya has been involved with SANBio since 2006. He holds a PhD in Plant Science from the University of Cambridge and additional qualifications in crop science, project management, and PRINCE2™ certification.
