Meet the young scientists of Target Malaria: Koulmaga Dao

What do you do with Target Malaria and what do you enjoy about your work? 

I am a Molecular Biology technician for Target Malaria Burkina Faso. I oversee the molecular identification of Anopheles species that are responsible for malaria transmission. I appreciate the accuracy of PCR analyses as they allow us to have an overview of the evolution of mosquito populations in the study areas. 

What motivated you to go into this field? 

The burden of malaria is well known. When I was a child, I was confronted with the disease and all its sufferings. Vector control is an essential part of malaria control. Unfortunately, existing tools are proving insufficient due to the continued evolution and adaptation of the malaria vector.  Genetic technologies could potentially serve as an important asset in the fight against malaria.  I got involved with Target Malaria to support and contribute to the development of this new genetic technology.  For me, it is inconceivable that Africans be the observers of this adventure in which they are primarily implicated.  

Who inspires you? 

As a young person, I am inspired by other great scientists such as Professor Abdoulaye Diabaté; Professor Frédéric Tripet; Professor Austin Burt and Dr. Karen Logan who are models of commitment to research. I could name others with whom I work on a daily basis and who inspire me. 

Do you have any advice for other young scientists? 

I advise young people to get involved in the fight against malaria. Progress in all fields of science and especially in the fight against malaria requires personal commitment and scientific rigor. That is why passion and perseverance are essential qualities for young scientists.