What do you do with Target Malaria, and what do you enjoy about your work?
I work as Research Technician with the innovation team based at Imperial College London. My role within the team includes molecular checks for all Target Malaria’s important strains for regulatory purpose. In the insectary lab, I take care of transgenic mosquito strains, mosquito dissection, and take part in other insectary-based experiments. Seeing experimental results in real time in the lab, is what I enjoy the most about my work.
What motivated you to enter this line of work?
My motivation comes from my passion for medical entomology and commitment to the fight against malaria. My background as a public and environmental health officer and have seen first-hand the devastating effect of malaria on my people. I want to use my knowledge and skills in entomology to contribute to the fight against malaria.
Who are you inspired by?
My inspiration started in 2017, when I worked with a post-doctoral researcher called Dr. Sessinou Benoit Assogba on a project in the Gambia. We explored the use of mass mosquito swarm trapping as a complementary tool in the fight against malaria. This project has set the bar high for me and set the path to be where I am today.
Do you have any advice to other Young Scientists?
My advice to the young scientists is to be persistent, committed, and consistent in following their career path. Never underestimate the little you are doing for the project today. You are contributing to safety of future generations.
