Meet Mathews Mukatipa
Mathews Mukatipa is an HPTN 112 study team member and a study coordinator at the Malawi CRS in Lilongwe, Malawi. He is an experienced clinical research professional with more than 10 years of expertise in managing data for clinical trials and quality assurance. Mathews has supported several networks, including the HPTN, MTN, IMPAACT, and ACTG.
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Q: What attracted you to a career in HIV prevention research?
A: My passion for HIV prevention research comes from my commitment to improving maternal and child health in high-burden areas like Malawi. As an obstetrician-gynecologist working in Malawi, I have seen how HIV affects pregnant women and their babies, driving me to find practical solutions. My work connects research and policy to ensure innovative HIV prevention methods, like long-acting PrEP, reach those who need them most.
Q: What aspect of your role do you enjoy the most?
A: As a clinical researcher, I enjoy working with a dedicated team of clinicians, nurses, and staff committed to high-quality research and making a difference. Their dedication and passion make our work very enjoyable.
Q: What would you say most motivates you to do what you do?
A: The impact of improved maternal and child health motivates me the most. I have seen our research work translate into policies with significant impact.
Q: What has been one of your proudest moments as a member of the HPTN?
A: One of my proudest moments in the HPTN is working on the HPTN 084 Open Label Extension (OLE) study, which helps improve HIV prevention for women, including those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Seeing our research influence global policies and expand access to long-acting PrEP has been rewarding. Seeing our work provide women with better HIV prevention options and improve their health makes me proud.
Q: What has been the most unusual or interesting job you've ever had?
A: I once worked as a temporary high school teacher in South Africa for a term. I was young at the time and looked just like one of the students, so much so that one even wanted to fight me! It was an unforgettable experience.
Q: What is your guilty pleasure?
A: My guilty pleasure is supporting Manchester United Football Club, while pretending I've moved on, only to secretly celebrate (or suffer) with every match!