London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Educational/professional background

I have a BSc degree in Biochemistry and an MSc in Tropical and Infectious Diseases. I have for the past 6 years been working as an Infectious Diseases Research Scientist in various research institutions in Kenya.

Between 2016 and 2018, I worked as a Research Officer in Pneumococcal Epidemiology at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)-Wellcome Trust Research Programme. This experience sparked my interest in epidemiology and was my motivation to pursue an MSc in Epidemiology. I was fascinated by how laboratory and clinical data could be patched together to predict the course of infectious disease emergence, transmission and outbreak; and consequently be used to inform preventive and/or interventional measures.

I have more recently worked on COVID-19 surveillance and risk assessment. This role cemented my interest in epidemiology and exposed me to the endless applications of epidemiology in public health and policy/decision making.

Research interests or career goals

I aspire to pursue a career in policy and implementation science where I can translate science evidence into policies and practices that can be implemented to alleviate the burden of infectious diseases in sub-Saharan Africa. I also have a keen interest in science communication.

Why I chose LSHTM/my programme

LSHTM is a highly reputable institution. Apart from being taught by well-seasoned lecturers, I believe that LSHTM qualifications will improve my competitiveness in the job market. I also enjoy the flexibility of distance learning. I can raise my family, have a job and still pursue a master's from a globally reputable institution.