The Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute (Gates MRI) has named Dr. Patrice Matchaba as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective June 10, 2024. Dr. Matchaba, a distinguished physician and pharmaceutical executive, will succeed Dr. Emilio Emini, who is set to retire on June 30, 2024.
Gates MRI, an affiliate of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is dedicated to the research and development of therapeutics and vaccines aimed at improving global health outcomes. Dr. Matchaba brings a vast array of experience from his career in global health and drug development. His journey began as a physician in South Africa, followed by over two decades at Novartis Global Pharmaceuticals in the US and Switzerland. At Novartis, he held significant roles, including President of the U.S. Foundation and Global Head of Health, where he honed his expertise in drug development, global product registration, and market access.
Dr. Matchaba's earlier career included positions as a Senior Research Scientist at the Cochrane Centre in Cape Town and as an obstetrician and gynaecologist in Durban. His experience as a medical doctor in Botswana's mines, where he witnessed the devastating impact of tuberculosis, deeply influenced his commitment to global health.
Trevor Mundel, Board Chair of the Gates MRI and President of Global Health at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, expressed confidence in Dr. Matchaba's leadership. "After an extensive global search, we are delighted to announce that Dr. Matchaba will lead the Gates MRI," said Mundel. "His extensive experience in global health drug development, particularly in building sustainable partnerships, will be invaluable as Gates MRI advances therapeutics, supplements, and vaccines through clinical development to manufacturing and distribution."
Dr. Matchaba is enthusiastic about his new role. “The Gates MRI was founded to address significant public health challenges such as tuberculosis, malaria, diarrheal diseases, and maternal and child health,” he stated. “I look forward to collaborating with new colleagues and research partners to tackle these critical issues and save lives.”
In March 2024, the Gates MRI launched a Phase 3 clinical trial for the M72/AS01E tuberculosis vaccine candidate and continues to evaluate other potential therapeutics and vaccines aimed at reducing the burden of illness in low- and middle-income countries.
Article by Jed Mwangi
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