Samba Lamine CISSE is a Project Manager currently working as Program Associate at the University Clinical Research Center (UCRC) of the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTTB). He has over seven years of experience in clinical research management and financial administration, with proven expertise in overseeing projects funded by leading international partners such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH/NIAID), the World Health Organization (WHO), the European & Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP), the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) etc.

Samba holds a Master’s degree in Financial, Accounting, and Tax Management from TechnoLAB ISTA, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences in Bamako. His solid academic foundation in economics and finance has enabled him to excel in the complex financial oversight of international research programs.

At UCRC, he has overseen clinical trials and observational studies, ensuring compliance with donor requirements, rigorous budget control, and transparent financial reporting. His expertise lies in budget planning, fund management, cost tracking, and donor accountability, which have been critical in sustaining the confidence of funding partners. His work ensures that scientific teams have the resources and support they need to deliver high-quality research outputs.

Beyond financial management, Mr. CISSE is deeply engaged in research project coordination, capacity building, and leadership development. He is also engaged in the broader development community through his involvement with WARIMA, a network of west African project managers fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration. He actively contributes to knowledge dissemination through conferences and professional networks, highlighting the importance of compliance, sustainability, and accountability in strengthening African research institutions.

Known for his rigor, autonomy, analytical skills, and clear communication, he is committed to advancing UCRC’s mission of generating knowledge, training the next generation of scientists, and promoting the use of research findings to improve health outcomes. He views compliance not as a constraint, but as a strategic investment in quality research and institutional credibility.