Sandra Matinyi
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Sandra Matinyi is a biosafety and biosecurity expert and laboratory systems specialist working to advance responsible life sciences governance and strengthen laboratory systems in Africa and globally. Her work focuses on bridging global policy frameworks with practical implementation to ensure that advances in the life sciences are developed and applied safely, responsibly, and for the benefit of society.
Areas of Expertise
- Biosafety and Biosecurity Governance
- Laboratory Biorisk Management
- Quality Management Systems for Laboratories
- Responsible Use of the Life Sciences
- Dual-Use Research of Concern (DURC)
- Emerging Technology and Biosecurity Governance
Professional Profile
She brings expertise in biosafety and biosecurity governance, laboratory biorisk management, and strengthening quality management systems for research and diagnostic laboratories. Her work supports institutions in aligning laboratory operations with international standards and best practices, contributing to safe, reliable, and accountable scientific environments.
Key Responsibilities
Biosafety & Biosecurity Governance
Supporting governments and institutions to strengthen governance systems for the safe and responsible conduct of life sciences activities.
Laboratory Systems Strengthening
Advancing laboratory quality management systems, biorisk management practices, and operational excellence.
Responsible Life Sciences Governance
Supporting implementation of frameworks that promote the responsible use of the life sciences and emerging technologies.
International Collaboration & Capacity Building
Working with governments, international organizations, and scientific institutions to strengthen biosafety and biosecurity capacity globally.
Professional Focus
Sandra is committed to strengthening biosafety and biosecurity systems, advancing responsible governance of the life sciences, and fostering collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and institutions to support global health security and sustainable scientific progress.
Recognition & Leadership
- Biosecurity Game Changers Fellow
- Youth for Biosecurity Fellow
- Recognized among 50 Women Advancing Biosecurity during the 50th Anniversary of the Biological Weapons Convention (Geneva, 2022)
- Led efforts to pilot the WHO Global Guidance Framework for the Responsible Use of Life Sciences in Uganda