What is your role at MRCG?
As a Scientific Officer, I am responsible for maintaining a large mosquito colony for various research purposes, conducting direct membrane-feeding assays for transmission-blocking experiments, and performing morphological identification and processing of field-collected mosquitoes. My molecular work includes DNA extraction and PCR for molecular identification of mosquito species. Additionally, I dissect mosquito midguts, salivary glands, spermathecae, and ovaries, and conduct insecticide resistance testing to guide IRS and LLIN usage in The Gambia. I also replenish and monitor stock consumables and relevant laboratory supplies, ensure proper handling and disposal of potentially hazardous chemical and biological agents, collaborate on planning experiments and evaluating test results, and monitor equipment performance and maintenance schedules.
Tell us a bit about your current project.
I am currently involved in a study on the mosquitocidal effect of ivermectin-treated nettings and sprayed walls on Anopheles gambiae s.s., led by Dr. Majidah Hamid-Adiamoh. Conducted at our insectary facility in Wali Kunda and Basse, I served as the entomology technician, rearing mosquitoes, exposing them to insecticides on sprayed walls and impregnated nettings, and documenting mortality from various assays. This proof-of-concept study explores the potential of ivermectin as a topical insecticide for bed nets and walls, similar to existing insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor residual spraying. We observed complete mortality in all mosquitoes exposed to ivermectin compared to current insecticides, indicating promising opportunities for further research. Our article is available at: https://lnkd.in/grG_4yAH](https://lnkd.in/grG_4yAH
What were your childhood aspirations?
As a child, I aspired to become a medical doctor. This ambition persisted until I finished senior secondary school, but my parents could not afford to sponsor my medical education. Consequently, I shifted my focus to studying public and environmental health and now apply this knowledge in the fight against vector-borne diseases.
What three words describe you?
Industrious, hardworking, and trustworthy.
Which words or phrases do you overuse?
Dissection of midguts, microscopy, what’s the egg count, and the colony is healthy.
Who do you idolize and why?
I look up to Dr. Harouna Dit Soumare for his passion for entomological research and extensive experience in transmission-blocking experiments. He has set a high standard for me in conducting transmission-blocking experiments and detecting oocysts in mosquito midguts.
Beyond work, what are your hobbies and interests?
My hobbies include watching documentaries and movies and reading research articles. I am also interested in sports such as cycling and long-distance running.