The MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit is deeply committed to capacity building, strengthening the next generation of researchers to ably contribute to concerted efforts in shaping the future of public health for Uganda, Africa, and beyond. By providing opportunities for training, mentorship, and innovation, we ensure that up-coming researchers are equipped to tackle the world’s most complex health challenges.

 

Developing Research Leaders

Research Platforms 
Our advanced research platforms, spanning immunology, sequencing, clinical diagnostics, biobanking, and clinical trials, serve as essential environments for hands-on training, mentorship, and skill development. Early-career scientists, laboratory technologists, and data analysts gain practical experience with cutting-edge tools and methodologies, fostering a pipeline of talent ready to lead future research.

Weekly Seminar Series
Held year-round, our internal weekly seminar series offers early and mid-career researchers a structured forum to present ongoing work, receive constructive peer feedback, and refine their science communication skills. Beyond highlighting new and on-going work at the Unit, these sessions enable critical thinking, improve presentation techniques, and promote a culture of learning and collaboration across disciplines.

Dragon’s Den Competition
Our Dragon’s Den competition encourages innovation in research, providing emerging researchers with the opportunity to present their ideas to a panel of experts. This not only drives creative problem-solving but also supports the career development of early-career scientists, fostering an environment where innovation thrives.

Postdoctoral Fellowships 
Through postdoctoral fellowships, we are training the next wave of experts in critical research areas spanning various infectious and non-communicable diseases, as well as the social aspects of research. These fellowships are empowering researchers to explore complex scientific questions, while contributing to the development of effective public health strategies tailored to the African context.

Building Expertise in Epidemic Preparedness
Our Peter Piot Fellows are contributing vital research on how we can better prepare for and respond to emerging epidemics, building capacity not only in Uganda but across the continent.

Training and Mentorship in Genomics Research
The Unit’s human genomics research, recognized with the prestigious MRC Impact Award, serves as a training ground for the next generation of genomic researchers. Students and Fellows are gaining hands-on experience in this under-researched, high-impact field, positioning them as leaders in global health research and innovation.

Empowering Collaborators in Health
Capacity building at the Unit extends beyond training researchers, it also involves empowering the broader workforce of collaborators in health delivery in Uganda. Our research studies prioritise skills development of community health workers, community advisory boards, technical staff in the ministry of health as well as the media, positioning their research for translation into impact, improving health and strengthening health systems.

Impact Achieved

Beatrice’s Journey from Intern to PhD Researcher
Beatrice began her career as an intern at the Unit, progressed to a staff position, and is pursuing a PhD focusing on TB vaccine immunogenicity. Her research is nested within a clinical trial at the Unit, exemplifying our support for career progression in scientific research. muii.org.u