1090-Zambia-Epidemiology and Ecology of Cholera in Africa, Zambia

The overall goal of the Epidemiology and Ecology of Cholera, Zambia is to investigate cross-border transmission of cholera through enhanced clinical surveillance in the border regions of Zambia. The rising global incidence of cholera infections poses a growing public health threat, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate change, population movement, and lacking robust sanitation infrastructure. This project is funded by the NIH and is being executed in partnership with the Centers for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ). Using cholera rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for increased patient screening and additional specimen and metadata collection methods, we hope to gain insight into the molecular, genomic, and epidemiological patterns of cholera transmission in these areas to inform prevention activities. 

The student would be responsible for managing day to day activities in Lusaka and ensuring the study is carried out according to the study protocol and milestones. The student would be responsible for troubleshooting issues that arise related to field activities, conducting visits to health facilities, and assisting the data manager with data quality checks and data cleaning.
Tasks may include but are not limited to the following:
•        Supporting the collection of biospecimens and accompanying metadata from participating health facilities  
•        Assisting in the management and analysis of cholera surveillance data from participating health facilities
•        Accompanying local partners on site visits to support and oversee data collection 
•        Assisting field staff in administering questionnaires and/or interviews 
•        Participate in weekly meetings with local and JHU team
•        Compile updates for weekly reports on visits and activities completed 
•        Conduct preliminary statistical analyses using surveillance and questionnaire data 
•        Collaborate in planning cholera refresher trainings for field workers at participating health facilities

The local PI fosters an environment that encourages teamwork and contribution of new ideas and experiences. The student will be welcomed into their team and supported by their well-established, robust research infrastructure. The student will be able to form a community with other researchers at this institution and other students who will be in Lusaka working on different projects. The student will also be working closely with the team at JHU, including the project PI Dr. Amanda Debes, who will be readily available to provide additional guidance and mentorship. 

This position is an ideal fit for someone with particular interest in implementation science and infectious disease surveillance, with a desire to gain on-the-ground experience carrying out research in an LMIC context. This project offers the unique chance to participate in the establishment of novel surveillance methods for cholera and to contribute to a multi-country initiative to stop cross-border transmission. 

•        Strong written and verbal communication skills
•        Ability to collaborate with team members
•        Ability to identify and solve problems independently
•        Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and environments
•         Experience with a data collection platform such as REDCap or ODK (desired, but not required)
•        Experience with data analysis platforms such as ArcGIS, R, or Stata (desired, but not required)
•        Knowledge of quantitative data collection
•        Attentive to detail 
•        Strong time management 

Name: Erin Baumgartner, ebaumga2@jhu.edu 

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

I aim to be supportive and accessible, to provide students with guidance and an environment that allows them to continuously learn through hands-on experience. I strive to foster opportunities for students to explore their unique interests and create networks with other researchers in this field. I deeply value collaboration and inclusivity, ensuring that decision-making and planning processes reflect the diverse input and perspectives of everyone on the team. My goal is to create an environment where all individuals feel heard, respected, and empowered.

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

The ideal student would be someone that thrives when working with a team, and takes initiative to complete tasks proactively and independently when necessary. In addition, the ideal student would be flexible when faced with challenges and actively participate in the troubleshooting process. 

Estimated Costs:

Food:        $100/month
Housing:        $500/month
Local Transportation:         $50/month
Internet/Phone:        $30/month. 

Additional support for PI:

Some support towards flight and housing is available.