NAM at KAVI-ICR
Dr. Marianne Mureithi, Chair of the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Nairobi (UoN), recently hosted a delegation from the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) at KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research (KAVI-ICR). This visit was part of NAM's Listening Sessions initiative, aimed at understanding challenges faced by mid-career researchers transitioning into Principal Investigator (PI) roles, particularly in women’s health research.
NAM Delegation and Focus Areas
The NAM delegation included Dr. Gregg Margolis, Director of Health Policy Fellowships and Leadership Programs; Kelly Robbins, Senior Program Officer; Alison Boland-Reeves, Senior Program Officer; Caroline Moses, Senior Program Assistant. They were also joined by Erica Coppel, Senior Officer for Strategy, Planning & Management in the Gender Equality Division at the Gates Foundation. Their visit centered on engaging with UoN researchers to explore barriers and opportunities in advancing women’s health research.
The team highlighted their Scholars in Global Women’s Health Research Program, which aims to empower emerging women’s health researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa. The program provides professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities to support mid-career researchers in becoming independent leaders. Dr. Mureithi serves as a member of the advisory committee for this initiative.
Program Highlights and Listening Session
During the event, the NAM team presented an overview of their program's curriculum, mentorship framework, and networking opportunities. They emphasized the importance of skills such as grant writing, leadership development, and international conference participation for career advancement. Following their presentation, a listening session was held with an audience comprising established researchers, mid-career scientists, and postgraduate students from UoN.
The discussion provided valuable insights into the career paths and research interests of attendees. Key topics included professional development goals, challenges in securing funding, and potential program enhancements such as seed grants and expanded mentorship opportunities.
Dr. Marianne Mureithi's Leadership
Dr. Mureithi, a prominent figure in global health research with extensive experience in HIV prevention and women’s health initiatives, expressed her enthusiasm for the event. She remarked: “Hosting NAM at KAVI-ICR was a unique opportunity to bridge global perspectives with local realities. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, we can better equip our researchers to lead transformative work in women’s health.”
Dr. Mureithi’s leadership extends beyond this event. She has been instrumental in mentoring young scientists through initiatives such as UoN's postgraduate mentorship program and her involvement in international collaborations like the ADVANCE Leadership Development Programme.
Advancing Women’s Health Research
The NAM visit underscored the critical need to support mid-career researchers as they transition into leadership roles. By addressing systemic challenges and creating targeted opportunities for professional growth, programs like Scholars in Global Women’s Health Research aim to close gender gaps in global health leadership.
This event not only strengthened ties between UoN and global institutions but also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to advancing women’s health research through innovation, mentorship, and collaboration.
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