Ernest Manson, Ph.D.
Ernest Ziem Manson is a postdoctoral fellow at the Vanderbilt Center for Antibody Therapeutics in the Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, where he works under the mentorship of James E. Crowe Jr., MD. His research focuses on discovering neutralizing human antibodies against snake, spider, and other medically relevant toxins, with the goal of advancing therapeutic approaches to toxin exposure.
Ernest earned his Ph.D. in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from the Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology and Innovation in Kenya. His doctoral research pioneered the development of monoclonal antibodies targeting cytotoxic three-finger toxin proteins in cobra venom, contributing to efforts to advance snakebite therapeutics.
Following his Ph.D., Ernest joined the German Development Corporation (GIZ) PharmaVax Ghana Programme as a Technical Advisor. There, he worked at the intersection of vaccine research, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and workforce development, supporting Ghana鈥檚 efforts toward sustainable local vaccine production and research-driven policy development.
At Vanderbilt, Ernest is building on his doctoral research to expand his expertise in antibody discovery and therapeutics. By bringing together venom research, immunology, and biotechnology, he aims to address pressing health challenges affecting vulnerable and underserved populations. His long-term interests also include applying his scientific background to research and development policy programming and implementation.
Beyond the laboratory, Ernest is passionate about community building, leadership, and advocacy. He serves as Co-Chair of the Postdoc Advocacy Committee on the Vanderbilt Postdoctoral Association Executive Board and is a member of Vanderbilt University鈥檚 Postdoctoral Fellow Advisory Committee. Through his experiences in scientific research, international development, and public health, Ernest hopes to bridge laboratory discoveries with real-world health needs. Outside of research, he is an avid Chelsea FC fan and enjoys watching the English Premier League.