Natasha R Mavengere

Dr. Natasha R. Mavengere is an Assistant Professor and Director of Undergraduate Research in the Department of Biological Science at Hampton University. Previously held senior academic roles at Harare Institute of Technology and University of Zimbabwe, along with industry experience as Chief Scientist at Quorus Biotech. She holds a Ph.D. in Microbial Biotechnology from the University of the Western Cape and dual Bachelor's degrees in Biology and Biochemistry from the University of Zimbabwe.

Her research focuses on antibiotic discovery through undergraduate-driven soil microbiology projects, microbial natural product screening, and fermentation optimization. Key areas include microbiology techniques, genomic analysis, and STEM education equity. She also contributes to UN science policy initiatives on synthetic biology regulation.

• Research Highlights: Engages students in antibiotic discovery from environmental samples, addressing antimicrobial resistance crises
• Awards: Fulbright Fellowship, TechWomen Fellowship, Women in Science Excellence Award
• Teaching: BIO 105, BIO 304, BIO 408 courses in microbiology and research methods

Her work bridges laboratory research with real-world applications, emphasizing hands-on training for students through project phases like soil sample collection, microbial culturing, antibiotic screening, and compound characterization.