Mandishora, Racheal

Dr Racheal S. Dube Mandishora is a trained Molecular Virologist and Cancer Epidemiologist. She has developed a strong research profile focused on the biology of oncoviruses, such as Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and their synergistic cooperation with other microorganisms in contributing to human diseases and cancers. Racheal has led and co-investigated studies on the molecular characterization and prevalence of HPV across various anatomical sites—including cervico-vaginal, anal, vulval, and ocular regions—in the Zimbabwean population, with an emphasis on infection rates in people living with HIV (PLWH). She is currently analyzing data from the HPV in Men (HIM) study cohort to explore oral HPV acquisition patterns and the associated risk factors among men from the USA and Latin America. With a background in wet laboratory Medical Science, Racheal combines her Basic Science and Epidemiology expertise to investigate the role of HPV variants at both lineage and sublineage levels. Her research also examines HPV whole genome diversity in women living with HIV, particularly in the context of multi-anatomical site cancers. Racheal’s long-term goal is to translate these findings into clinical practice, contributing to more effective HPV related cancer preventative and diagnostic tools.

Dr Racheal S. Dube Mandishora, a native Zimbabwean based in the USA, has actively mobilized researchers from Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) to become members of the International Papillomavirus Society (IPVS), through the ambassador program. She maintains a strong presence in cancer awareness, in her home country, and has organized HPV workshops and laboratory trainings, fostering collaboration between senior IPVS researchers and early-career scientists from the Southern African region. This work demonstrates her commitment to capacity building and research visibility in the global fight against HPV-related cancers.