JOSEPH NDUNGURU has a PhD in Plant Pathology, a Masters in Agronomy Specialized in Plant Virology, and a BS in Crops Sciences. As a scientist his research interests focuses on understanding plants and plant pathogens at the molecular level, their genomics, gene expression and on developing resistance to plant pathogens such as viruses and other pathogens of economic importance in Africa. He also uses molecular techniques to identify plant phytocompounds that can be exploited for medicinal use in Africa. Joseph brings 13 years of research and development experience to drive ACIDC to a new era of medicine by using plants.

An innovative and experienced individual with expertise in project management and creative problem-solving. Skilled in project coordination and innovative solution development with extensive experience and record in resource mobilization from a wide range of donors such as government organizations, regional donors, foundations, international institutions and donors, private sector and non-government organizations.

Doctor of Philosophy in Plant Pathology, University of Pretoria, South Africa. Dissertation on ‘Molecular characterization of cassava mosaic geminiviruses in Tanzania, Research conducted at the International Laboratory for Tropical Agricultural Biotechnology (ILTAB), Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, USA.  Rresearch interests focus on understanding plants and plant pathogens at the molecular level, their genomics, gene expression and on developing resistance to plant pathogens such as viruses and other pathogens of economic importance in Africa.  I also use molecular techniques to identify plant phytocompounds that ca be exploited for medicinal use in Africa.  

Brings on Board to ACIDC over 13 years in leadership positions involving management of institutions, leading teams of researchers and administrators in Tanzania, as well as in sub–Saharan Africa and outside Africa.  He has inspired individual researchers to achieve their goals and to encourage teams to work together towards common goals.

 Professor Joseph served as Director of Research of the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute, Selian Centre, Arusha, Tanzania 09/2018-05/2021, Director of Research and Innovation of the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute, Dodoma, Tanzania  06/2022-01/2023 and is currently the Acting Director General, Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticide Authority, Arusha, Tanzania. He speaks English and Swahili.