Institute of Basic and Biomedical Sciences
Advancing knowledge in basic and biomedical sciences through innovative research and education
Director
Dr. Freeman Chabala
Director – Institute of Basic & Biomedical Sciences
About the Director
Dr. Freeman Chabala
Director – Institute of Basic & Biomedical Sciences
BSc, MSc, PhD (Clinical Biochemistry / Biomedical Sciences)
BSc, MSc, PhD (Clinical Biochemistry / Biomedical Sciences)
Dr. Freeman Chabala is a biomedical scientist, clinical biochemist, and academic leader with over 15 years of experience in biomedical research, postgraduate training, and institutional research development. He serves as Director of the Institute of Basic and Biomedical Sciences (IBBS) at Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, where he leads research and academic strategy aimed at strengthening biomedical sciences, innovation, and postgraduate capacity development.
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He is an NIH-funded researcher and LAUNCH Subaward Principal Investigator under the INSIGHT D43 Global Health Postdoctoral Training Program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). He has received advanced training in clinical trials, translational biochemistry, implementation science, and biostatistics through collaborations with Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Boston University, UAB, and Massachusetts General Hospital.
Dr. Chabala's research focuses on the intersection of infectious and metabolic diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly chronic hepatitis B, HIV co-infection, steatotic liver disease, implementation science, and health systems strengthening. He has led and contributed to large multi-country collaborative studies across Africa and is committed to generating clinically actionable evidence that informs scalable, context-appropriate healthcare models.
Beyond research, he plays a significant leadership role in research governance and ethics in Zambia. He serves as Board Member of the National Health Research Ethics Board of Zambia and Vice President of the Biomedical Society of Zambia, contributing to national research oversight, ethics systems strengthening, mentorship, and biomedical workforce development.
9PubMed-Indexed Publications⌄
- 1.Mutengo M, Dashti A, Liptáková M, Mulunda NR, Chabala FW, Hayashida K, et al. High prevalence of Enterocytozoon bieneusi (microsporidia) in asymptomatic schoolchildren, Zambia. Med Mycol. 2025;63(7).
- 2.Shawa M, Chambaro H, Kamboyi HK, Sulwe C, Chizimu JY, Nasilele SJ, et al. In silico characterization of chromosomally integrated bla(CTX-M) genes among clinical Enterobacteriaceae in Africa: insights from whole-genome analysis. Front Microbiol. 2025;16:1655907.
- 3.Muchinta E, Chabala FW. Chronic kidney disease among HIV-positive Zambian adults with tenofovir-associated nephrotoxicity at University Teaching Hospital (UTH) in Lusaka. PLoS One. 2025;20(8):e0330356.
- 4.Liweleya S, Halubanza B, Muchaili L, Mweene BC, Siame L, Lwiindi PC, et al. Metabolic and inflammatory axes of insulin resistance in normoglycemic adults with high HIV burden. PLOS Glob Public Health. 2025;6(1):e0005589.
- 5.Mutengo M, Kaduková M, Mulunda NR, Chabala FW, Dashti A, Hayashida K, et al. Asymptomatic carriage of intestinal protists is common in children in Lusaka Province, Zambia. PLoS Negl Trop Dis. 2024;18(12):e0012717.
- 6.Chabala FW, Siew ED, Wester CW, Brennan AT, Phiri MM, Vinikoor MJ, et al. Urine kidney injury molecule-1 predicts subclinical kidney disease among persons living with HIV initiating tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-based ART in Zambia. Front Nephrol. 2024;4:1468409.
- 7.Mulenga C, Kaonga P, Hamoonga R, Mazaba ML, Chabala F, Musonda P. Predicting Mortality in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients in Zambia: An Application of Machine Learning. Glob Health Epidemiol Genom. 2023;2023:8921220.
- 8.Chabala FW, Siew ED, Mutale W, Mulenga L, Mweemba A, Goma F, et al. Prognostic model for nephrotoxicity among HIV-positive Zambian adults receiving tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-based antiretroviral therapy. PLoS One. 2021;16(7):e0252768.
- 9.Chabala F, Madubasi M, Mutengo MM, Banda N, Yamba K, Kaonga P. Escherichia coli Antimicrobial Susceptibility Reduction amongst HIV-Infected Individuals at the University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020;17(10).
3Research Grants & Funding⌄
- 1.Subrecipient Principal Investigator – INSIGHT Fellowship Program, Award 5D43TW012274 · $50,000
- 2.Subrecipient PhD Fellow – Fogarty International Center, Award D43 TW009744 · $15,000
- 3.Subrecipient MSc Fellow – NIH/MEPI Program, Award 1R24TW008873 · $5,000
About IBBS
Our Story
The Institute of Basic and Biomedical Sciences (IBBS) at Levy Mwanawasa Medical University is a center of excellence dedicated to advancing knowledge in basic and biomedical sciences through cutting-edge research and world-class education. Our programmes combine theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory experience, preparing students for successful careers in research, healthcare, and related industries. With state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty, we provide a stimulating environment for scientific discovery and innovation.
Our Mission
To provide high-quality education and conduct innovative research in basic and biomedical sciences that contributes to the advancement of knowledge, addresses local health challenges, and improves health outcomes in Zambia and beyond.
Our Vision
To be a leading institute for basic and biomedical sciences education and research in Africa, recognized globally for its contribution to scientific knowledge, innovation, and the development of solutions to pressing health challenges.
Fee Structure
Transparent and competitive fee structure designed to make quality education accessible. Our flexible payment options ensure your investment in education is manageable and worthwhile.
Program Tuition Fees
Full-Time • All amounts in ZMW
Program Name | Local (Regular) | Distance Learning | International |
|---|---|---|---|
Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences Full-Time Mode | K22,150.00 | K12,150.00 | K33,225.00 |
Diploma in Biomedical Sciences Full-Time Mode | K14,350.00 | NA | K21,525.00 |
Master of Science in Health Professions Education Full-Time Mode | K19,625.00 | K12,150.00 | K29, 438.00 |
Master of Science in Infectious Diseases Full-Time Mode | K16, 625.00 | K12,150.00 | K24, 937.00 |
Mandatory Fees
Required for all students
Index Fees
Professional body charges
Additional Fees
Optional & special charges
Important Information
Fees are subject to change based on university policy updates. For the most current fee information and payment plan options, please contact our Finance Department at finance@lmmu.ac.zm or visit the Finance Office.
Academic Programmes
Discover world-class academic programmes at IBBS. Our comprehensive curriculum is designed to prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals with cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills.
Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences
A comprehensive programme that provides a strong foundation in the basic sciences that underpin medicine and healthcare.
Diploma in Biomedical Sciences
Provides foundational knowledge and skills in the basic sciences that underpin medicine and healthcare.
Master of Science in Health Professions Education
A program focused on educational theory, curriculum development, and assessment in health professions.
Master of Science in Infectious Diseases
A program focused on the study of infectious diseases, their prevention, and management.
Our Facilities
IBBS features cutting-edge facilities designed to provide students with hands-on learning experiences in a modern, technology-enhanced environment.
Research Laboratories
State-of-the-art laboratories for research in biomedical sciences and related fields.
Teaching Laboratories
Well-equipped laboratories for teaching practical skills in biomedical sciences.
Resource Center
Comprehensive library with digital and print resources for biomedical sciences.
Computer Labs
Modern computer laboratories with specialized software for data analysis and research.
Ready to Begin Your Journey at LMMU?
Take the first step towards your future in healthcare. Join LMMU and become part of LMMU's legacy of excellence in medical education and training.
Quick Application
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Expert Faculty
Learn from experienced professionals and researchers
Accredited Programs
Internationally recognized qualifications and certifications