Felista Tarimo is a dedicated Research Scientist in the Environmental Health and Ecological Sciences (EHES) department. She co-leads stakeholder engagement activities at the Ifakara Health Institute, where she supports Transmission Zero’s cutting-edge research into genetic tools for malaria control. Felista’s academic and professional work has centered on understanding community perceptions of novel malaria control methods, such as autodissemination of pyriproxyfen, and on ensuring that community concerns are integrated into scientific interventions. She has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications on malaria control and gender-based violence and health system challenges in Tanzania. 

In her current role, she applies advanced qualitative methods – including in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and ethnographic techniques – to engage stakeholders and communities in rural Tanzania, helping to align cutting-edge research with their lived experiences. 

Felista has received specialized training in research ethics, social innovation and community engagement in research, science communication, and public and media speaking. She is fluent in both English and Swahili. She is also a member of the Tanzania Entomological Society and is passionate about bridging the gap between science and society – believing that community-driven approaches are key to sustainable health solutions in Africa. 

She holds a Master of Science in Public Health Research from the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Dodoma.