Edith Siyanbade
Edith Siyanbade
Edith “Tomi” Siyanbade is dedicated to global health at all levels– from biotechnology and vaccine design to education and health infrastructure. She graduated from Harvard University in May 2024 with Highest Honors in Molecular and Cellular Biology, along with a secondary in Global Health and Health Policy and a language citation in French. Her academic work spans diagnostic assay design, virology, and science communication, most notably through her award-winning thesis research developing point-of-care Lassa fever diagnostics and her co-authorship of the Outbreak Science textbook.
Professionally, Tomi works as a life sciences analyst advising biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies on molecular diagnostics and commercialization strategies. Beyond her scientific work, she is the co-founder of IvyLEAD, an educational initiative providing career workshops and leadership development to students both domestically and abroad. She has also mentored students through the Harvard Global Health Institute and the Summer Science Program International, and has worked with the PBS documentary team Roadtrip Nation to help inspire how young people can shape healthier, more resilient futures.
A lifelong musician, Tomi has performed with a number of ensembles including The Harvard Undergraduate Drummers, Pops Orchestra, and Kuumba Singers. She is a passionate pianist, cellist, bassist, singer, and percussionist, and she constantly seeks to add more “-ists” to the list through her other creative pursuits in music composition, ceramics, and photography. Across her research, mentorship, and art, she is dedicated to empowering individuals and communities alike, and she believes that our most powerful tool for innovation is our own agency.