Please tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to pursue a PhD/MPH in the EMD Department (or your department) at the Yale School of Public Health?
I am a student in Yale’s 5-year BS/MPH program. I was drawn to the EMD Department because it bridges my background in biology with my passion for global health. As an undergraduate, I joined Dr. Amy Bei’s lab, where I still work on malaria vaccine candidates, and saw how infectious disease research could move beyond the lab to create real-world impact. What really stood out to me was the department’s strong global collaborations that so many of the EMD faculty have worked to build and sustain over the years.
What is the current focus of your field-based research?
My research explores how genetic variations in the malaria parasite may impact vaccine effectiveness. In the field, our team studies how well antibodies from malaria vaccines protect against different parasite strains. Our goal is to help inform the development of a next-generation malaria vaccine that will provide strong protection in endemic regions where many malaria strains circulate.
Please give a brief introduction to the field site you work on.
Our research occurs primarily in Kédougou, Senegal in collaboration with the Institut Pasteur de Dakar. Kédougou is a beautiful, lush green region situated along the Gambia River. Unfortunately, its warm and humid climate also creates the ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, making it the region of Senegal with the highest malaria burden.
What are some of the most significant findings or innovations from your field work?
One of the most significant findings from our fieldwork is the identification of potent vaccine-induced antibodies that protect across field strains of malaria. Given malaria's high genetic diversity, developing a broadly protective vaccine would be a major step forward for malaria elimination goals.
Which emerging trends or technologies in field work do you find most exciting?
One exciting advancement is our ability to conduct cutting-edge molecular and genetic research in remote locations. Using advanced tools like flow cytometry and a portable sequencer called the MinION, we can perform complex experiments without relying on constant internet access or high-tech lab facilities. Ultimately, we hope to complete every step of our research at these field sites, making scientific discoveries faster and more accessible.
Where do you see your field site heading in the next few years, and what role do you hope your work will play in this?
Our field site has expanded through a multi-year collaboration with the community, health workers, and researchers in Kédougou. With the next field mission planned for this summer, I expect the research to continue growing and eventually continue without external resources. I still work virtually with the team in Senegal and hope my research will help guide future experiments to bring us closer to designing the most effective next-generation malaria vaccine.
How has the EMD Department supported your research and academic goals?
The EMD department has provided consistent mentorship, community, and financial resources that have made my work possible. Fellowships like the Downs Fellowship prepared me for the challenges of fieldwork, while faculty mentorship has helped me develop skills across multiple disciplines. One of the best aspects of EMD is the opportunity to collaborate across fields, from basic biology to statistical modeling. This helps me advance our research goals while also expanding my own technical skills.
What advice would you give to prospective students considering applying to the EMD training programs at Yale?
My advice is to explore the department’s website and reach out to students or faculty whose work aligns with your passions. There are many student groups and fellowships that will enrich your experience outside your classes. The countless resources offered also provide lots of room and support to develop your own projects. So don’t be afraid to blaze your own trail.