1089-Zambia-Surveillance for respiratory infections in rural Zambia

This project is being conducted in Macha, Zambia, a rural community approximately 500 km south of Lusaka. A research institute, Macha Research Trust, was established to conduct clinical and epidemiologic research at the local hospital and in the community. In December 2018, we established a respiratory disease (flu, RSV, and now SARS-CoV-2) surveillance study at the hospital among outpatients and inpatients. The goals of the study are to: 1) Characterize the burden of respiratory infections in rural southern Zambia; 2) Describe the seasonal variation in disease burden; 3) assess risk factors for infection and severe disease. After enrollment into the study, each participant is administered a questionnaire and samples are collected for immediate testing for influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 in the research lab and then stored for further testing. Participants are followed up 3-5 weeks later to determine the clinical course of their infection and to collect additional samples. 

The primary duties of the student will be to assist with study activities, including study coordination, data management, and data analysis. Students can also assist in the lab with sample processing and storage. 

welcoming! Macha Research Trust (MRT) has a long history of working with students and conducting research in this community. Both the staff at MRT and people in the community are very welcoming and friendly. The student will be integrated into the study team, which will include the local PI, project coordinator and study assistants. They will have the opportunity to get engaged with all aspects of the study. 

is interested in conducting global health research and eager to learn about how to conduct and manage studies. 

Candidates should have completed the 750 series in Epidemiology and either the 620 or 650 series in Biostatistics. Clinical or laboratory experience and proficiency in Stata are desirable but not required. Candidates should have a strong academic record and good oral and written communication skills.

Name: Catherine Sutcliffe, csutcli1@jhu.edu 

I would describe my communication and mentorship styles as... 

hands-on, open, and supportive. I will have regular email and phone communication with the study team, including the student. We will work together to determine the student's interests and make a plan for the primary activities in which they will be involved. This plan can evolve over time as the student becomes more familiar with the study and the environment.

A complementary student would have a working style and mentorship expectations that are..

open and flexible. The student should expect to be in regular communication about their activities and any issues that arise. The student should be flexible about what activities they work on - this will vary day to day and may change as the need arises. The student should be able to take direction and work with a team, but also work independently on tasks and problem-solve.

Estimated costs:

Housing: $250/month; Food: $200/month; Internet: $20/month data sim card; Local transportation: $50/trip in or out of Macha (arriving/departing and personal travel); Temporary employment permit: $300 (one-time fee). Total for 2 months: $1340.

Additional support from PI:

There may be opportunities for hourly pay with the project.