Here at the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, we’re always excited to share news that fosters scientific advancement and improves health outcomes, particularly here in Kenya. Today, we’re highlighting a fantastic opportunity for early-to-mid career researchers and health practitioners in our community: CRDF Global has announced a call for applications for a program aimed at strengthening professional competencies in cancer research and policy.
This initiative is spearheaded by none other than Dr. Thomas Odeny, a distinguished Principal Investigator based at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI). His leadership ensures that the program is deeply rooted in the local context and attuned to the specific challenges and opportunities we face in tackling cancer in Kenya and beyond.
Addressing the Growing Cancer Burden in LMICs
The statistics are sobering. As highlighted by GLOBOCAN 2020, a staggering nearly 70% of cancer-related deaths are projected to occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) by the year 2040. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for robust and locally-driven cancer research within these regions, including our own Kenya.
Strong cancer research originating from LMICs is not just about addressing local needs; it’s about generating generalizable knowledge and developing innovative tools that can contribute to effective cancer control on a global scale. By empowering our own researchers, we are investing in solutions that are tailored to our unique circumstances and have the potential for wider impact.
What This Program Offers:
This CRDF Global program offers a unique platform for early-to-mid career professionals to:
- Enhance their professional competencies: The program is designed to equip participants with crucial skills in areas such as research methodologies, data analysis, scientific writing, grant proposal development, ethical considerations, and policy engagement.
- Advance their careers in cancer research and policy: By strengthening their skillsets and expanding their networks, participants will be better positioned to lead impactful research projects and contribute to evidence-based policy changes.
- Contribute to a global effort: The program’s vision extends beyond Kenya, aiming to foster research that can contribute to cancer control across Africa and the world.
- Benefit from local expertise: Under the guidance of Dr. Thomas Odeny at KEMRI, participants will receive mentorship and training that is deeply informed by the Kenyan research landscape.
- Become part of a collaborative network: The program will likely foster connections among researchers and practitioners, creating a valuable community for knowledge sharing and future collaborations.
A Call to Action for Kenyan Researchers:
This initiative represents a significant investment in the future of cancer research in Kenya. For early-to-mid career researchers and health practitioners who are passionate about making a tangible difference in the fight against cancer, this is an exceptional opportunity to:
- Develop your skills and expertise.
- Expand your professional network.
- Contribute to impactful research that can save lives.
- Become a leader in the field of cancer research and policy.
Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of a program that is poised to strengthen cancer research capacity in Kenya and contribute to a healthier future for all.
Ready to take the next step? You can find more details and application information at the following link: https://insights.crdfglobal.org/altor
Let’s spread the word and encourage our talented researchers to seize this incredible opportunity!
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