1006- Mali- Support of NIH D43 Training Programs for Malian University: Emerging Infectious Diseases, Malaria, and Neglected Tropical Diseases

We have two ongoing NIH D43 Training grants that currently support two universities in West Africa: the University of Sciences, Techniques, and Technologies of Bamako (USTTB) and University of Conakry, Guinea. These programs support the masters and PhD programs at both universities in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Malaria, and Neglected Tropical Diseases. Overall, these projects aim to bolster student programming and strengthen research in these topic areas through the development of strong young African researchers.

The student will work with the local team to determine final activities based on interest, skills, and local needs, but these may include: offering English writing support to students and faculty who are in the process of scientific manuscript or grant application development, support of annual monitoring and evaluation activities (including interviews) of enrolled students supported through the grant, development of weekly journal club topics related to emerging infectious diseases, malaria, or neglected tropical diseases, and general support of programmatic activities and ongoing priorities, including the university mentorship program. The student may also support the development, organization and execution of research workshops that take place annually. The primary placement will be in Bamako, Mali, though travel to Conakry, Guinea is possible, depending on project funding and activities during travel.

The student will be working at a local university, with the professional environment typical of any university. The university itself is busy, with many ongoing activities and classes nearly always in session.

Interested in capacity building in LMICs, particularly as it relates to building up local educational and research systems. Interest in the topic areas of emerging infectious diseases, malaria, and neglected tropical diseases is also important, though we find students end up working on a variety of topics while in country. The student should be flexible and patient, as local teams often adjust their priorities upon arrival of the student in country and activities are emergent.

Name: Peter Winch, Department of International Health, pwinch@jhu.edu

I would describe my communication and mentorship styles as... 

Open and hands on. I am happy to discuss with students as often as they need it, and expect students to request meetings as they are needed, rather than have myself dictate a meeting schedule. I am also happy to serve as a mentor for the bigger picture, rather than just this singular GHEFP experience. My communication style is direct and I expect students to also be direct about their concerns and needs.

A complementary student would have a working style and mentorship expectations that are..

Open and flexible. The work in Mali is always evolving and the student needs to be flexible and patient. The student can expect involved mentorship if that is their desire, but I will adjust to the student's needs and expect them to communicate those needs.

Lodging - $900
Food - $200
Transportation - none needed for daily work; $25 for personal travel on weekends

We may be able to hire the student on a hourly basis if FWS eligible. We may also be able to provide some travel costs, such as vaccines or other travel necessities. This can be discussed with the student based on needs and available budget at the time of travel.