Evelyn Gitau
Dr. Evelyn Gitau serves as the Chief Scientific Officer for the Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation), where she provides strategic leadership for the organization’s science initiatives. With over 20 years of experience in biomedical research, she excels in program and grants management, fundraising, policy, and monitoring and evaluation. Dr. Gitau applies her interdisciplinary expertise in impact evaluation, implementation research, cellular immunology, molecular biology, and infectious diseases to lead a skilled team at SFA Foundation. Together, they design and manage science and innovation programs across Africa, collaborating with both local and global partners.
Under her leadership, the SFA Foundation aims to efficiently deliver programs that inform Africa’s development agenda, establishing the foundation as a global thought leader. She also focuses on building high-level relationships and advocacy with partner organizations to enhance the charity’s presence. Previously, Dr. Gitau was the Director of Programs at the African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC) and has received accolades, including being named a Next Einstein Forum Fellow.
Holding a PhD in Life Sciences from the Open University/Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, she is dedicated to mentoring and supervising emerging researchers. Dr. Gitau believes that the next generation of research leaders in Africa should play a crucial role in shaping decision-making and policy with evidence, ensuring the continent’s progress and development.