Leila Mansoor

Dr Leila E. Mansoor is a Senior Scientist and Head of Quality Assurance at the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA). With over 20 years of experience in HIV prevention clinical research, she has led and contributed to a broad portfolio of studies spanning first-in-human (Phase I), proof-of-concept (Phase II), and large-scale efficacy (Phase III) trials, as well as post-trial access studies and implementation science projects.

Dr. Mansoor has played a pivotal role in the evaluation of HIV prevention biotechnologies for young women, with a particular focus on microbicides, oral prevention strategies, on-demand products, and long-acting formulations. Her work includes the development and implementation of innovative adherence support strategies, especially tailored for low-literacy and research-naïve populations, ensuring both scientific rigor and participant-centred approaches.

Her research interests encompass HIV prevention clinical trials, product development, adherence measurement and support within clinical research settings, and social science research exploring patients’ knowledge of, attitudes toward, and perceptions of their medications and disease states. Through her leadership in both scientific and quality domains, she contributes to strengthening research excellence and advancing equitable access to HIV prevention technologies.