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1033- Uganda- From HIV to NCDs: Innovative Research with the Rakai Health Sciences Program in Uganda

Location: Kalisizo, Uganda

Location type: Urban, Rural

Placement type: Global Health Research Placement

Topic/Theme: Infectious/Communicable Diseases, Non-communicable Diseases, Environmental Health, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research, Population Based Research, Implementation Research

Minimum length of service: 8 weeks

Preferred service dates: 6/1/2024-4/30/2025

Language requirement: No language requirement

 

Project Description

The Rakai Health Sciences Program (RHSP) is a large and well-established program historically focused on population-based, HIV-related research in Uganda (www.rhsp.org). We have several potential projects to which students may contribute such as: (i) finding Hard-to-Reach individuals for HIV care and prevention service delivery; and (ii) exploring the HIV, non-communicable diseases, environmental exposures, and urbanization syndemic. We are looking for someone with either (or both) quantitative and qualitative technical skills to move any one or more of our numerous projects forward. There are opportunities to be engaged at multiple different phases in our studies which range from formative to cohorts to RCTs. Authorship opportunities are the norm for this placement. The person will need to be flexible, have strong interpersonal skills to work in a complex environment, and have the proper motivation and leadership to problem-solve in a mostly rural African setting. Excellent support will be available in the form of an experienced research team at the Rakai Health Sciences Program and support from myself and local mentors. We have outstanding infrastructure for students, including transport, housing, and meals. Students are a regular and valued part of the RHSP ecosystem. This placement would be a good fit for someone who is interested in engaging fully in a research project and taking it through to publication.

Scope of Work

Field visits, team meetings, data collection and cleaning, analyses

The professional environment is...

collegial, welcoming, and fulfilling.

This placement would be a good fit for someone who...

hard working, enthusiastic, and curious.

Required Skills
Some analytical skills preferred.
Site PI/Mentor Info

Name: Larry Chang, Department of Medicine, lchang8@jh.edu

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

active listener, encouraging, and consistent.

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

hard working, enthusiastic, and curious.

Costs of Living and Support

$250

Housing, food, and local transportation will be covered.