Ambumulire N. Phiri is a lecturer in Education and Teaching Studies at Mzuzu University in Malawi. She is completing her PhD in Education with a focus in Special Education from University of Missouri-St. Louis. Her Doctoral dissertation examines factors that impact development of self-determination of young adults with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders and co-morbid conditions. She has worked in teacher education and special education research in Malawi since 2003. Her research interest includes:

- Transition of young adults with developmental disabilities;

- Special needs education teacher training;

- Community based early intervention for children with special needs; and,

- Support for siblings of children with special needs.