Makerere University, the oldest academic institution in Uganda, serves as the primary professional base for mathematician Joseph Mugisha. Specializing in the field of biomathematics, he has advanced through the university ranks since joining as a teaching assistant in 1987. His career encompasses both extensive research output and significant administrative leadership within the Ugandan higher education system.
Academic Background
Born in 1960 in the Bushenyi District of Western Uganda, Mugisha completed his foundational schooling at Masheruka Primary School and secondary education at Mbarara High School. He pursued his higher education entirely at Makerere University. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Education, followed by a Master of Science in Biomathematics in 1992. His formal academic training concluded in 2000 with a PhD in the same specialty.
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Mugisha has held numerous management positions at Makerere University. Between 2003 and 2005, he served as deputy director of the Institute of Computer Science, also acting as director for a period in 2003. He later served as dean of the Faculty of Science from 2009 to 2010, managing the transition of that faculty into the College of Natural Sciences. Appointed as the principal of the College of Natural Sciences in 2012 after an interim period, he has also fulfilled duties as the acting deputy vice chancellor for academic affairs. He maintains membership in the university senate.
Research and Professional Engagement
His research focuses on applying mathematical models to biology and biomedical processes, particularly regarding ecological and epidemiological issues. He has published over 50 articles in international journals and acts as a reviewer for various publications, including Mathematical Biosciences and Ecological Modelling. Beyond Makerere University, he holds memberships in the American Mathematical Society, the Ugandan Mathematical Society, and the Ugandan Biometric Society. He is a founder and current president of the African Society for Bio-mathematics, a role he has held since 2009. Additionally, he serves on the board of the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology and the Kyambogo University Council.
Fast facts
- Born: 1960, Bushenyi District, Uganda
- PhD: Biomathematics, Makerere University, 2000
- Current Position: Principal, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University
- Professional Fellowship: Uganda National Academy of Sciences
- Research Interest: Epidemiological and ecological modeling
- Career Start: Teaching assistant, 1987
Questions readers ask
What is Joseph Mugisha's primary field of study?
He specializes in biomathematics, focusing on the application of mathematics to biology, biomedical processes, epidemiology, and ecology.
What leadership roles has he held at Makerere University?
He has served as a dean of the Faculty of Science, principal of the College of Natural Sciences, and acting deputy vice chancellor for academic affairs.
Achievements
- Fellow of the Uganda National Academy of Sciences
