1. Home ›
  2. News ›
  3. UND EIGH representative visits Mpala Research Center

UND EIGH representative visits Mpala Research Center

Author: Fustec, Benedicte

Two people walk along a low earthen dam holding water in a dry grassland area under a partly cloudy sky. One person bends down near the edge of the water. Sparse, dry vegetation and scattered rocks are visible in the foreground.
Bernard Nahlen and Rachid Lebunge walking next to a REDI-NET sampling site

In late July 2024, Bernard Nahlen, Director of the Eck Institute for Global Health at the University of Notre Dame visited the Mpala Research Centre (MRC), in Laikipia County, Kenya. Interviews with REDI-NET Consortium members were conducted, guided tours of the major sites were provided during routine REDI-NET activities, and Dr. Nina Wambiji, Chief Research Officer, provided an overview of the history of MRC. REDI-NET laboratory activities, including tick identification and total nucleic acid extraction, were also demonstrated.

Three scientists in white lab coats with the MPALA logo work at a table in a laboratory. One scientist holds a small, clear, rectangular object near a microscope. Another scientist sits at the table using a laptop. A third scientist is at the table next to laboratory equipment and supplies.
Maureen, Janerose and Rachid from Mpala conducting tick imaging

 

 

 

Bernard Nahlen "The ecological setting and research infrastructure of the Mpala Research Centre are truly unique and impressive. During our short visit, we felt privileged to interact with such a talented and dedicated group of scientists and staff. I have no doubt that REDINET's sustained collaboration with the Mpala Research Centre will be crucial to improving surveillance and response for both known and emerging pathogens."

This work is supported by the US Army Medical Research and Development Command under Contract No.W81XWH-21-C-0001, W81XWH-22-C-0093, HT9425-23-C-0059 and HT9425-24-C-0072. The views, opinions and/or findings contained in this report are those of the author(s) and should not be construed as an official Department of the Army or Navy position, policy or decision unless so designated by other documentation.