Q1. Where are you from?

From the Black Forest in Germany.

Q2. What is your role at LSHTM / MRC Unit The Gambia at LSHTM / MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, and who and what does it involve?

I am Associate Professor in Mental Health Systems in the Department of Health Services Research and Policy. My work focuses on common mental disorders and alcohol misuse, and I seek to improve health system responses for the mental health needs of vulnerable and conflict-affected populations. I am particularly interested in brief psychological interventions and the implementation thereof.

Q3. How long have you worked here (and what was your previous job)?

I have been at the School for 9 years, and worked previously at the WHO in Geneva.

Q4. What is a typical day for you?

Can hardly remember those typical days in the office anymore! 

I would say that my days are usually dominated by meetings to discuss current and future projects but I do block some time for reading and writing if possible. I like to go for a run in the evening, it helps me clear my mind. I have two small children. At the moment, the rascals make sure that none of my days are actually typical!

Q5. Tell us about a project you are currently working on?

I am leading a project called CHANGE which is funded by the NIHR–Wellcome Partnership for Global Health Research. CHANGE seeks to develop a new transdiagnostic intervention addressing alcohol misuse and associated mental health co-morbidities among conflict-affected populations in Uganda and Ukraine. We work with fantastic partners including HealthRights International, the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla, WordsHelp Ukraine and the University of Copenhagen.

Q6. What is your favourite thing about working here?

Definitely my fantastic and supportive colleagues.

Q7. What three words would you use to describe your role?

Collaborative, rewarding, fun

Q8. What is your proudest career achievement?

Getting a job at LSHTM!

Q9. “When I’m not working I am…”

… probably playing in the mud with my children.

Q10. Who is your biggest inspiration? 

I can’t really name one person. I find inspiration in a variety of people and things.

Q11. What did you want to be when you were growing up?

A stewardess! Very unlike me today – I am always glad when I am off a plane.

Q12. What is your favourite book?

 “To the back of beyond” or “On a day like this” from Peter Stamm. I love his novels and the way he  writes and contemplates about life. Its not only entertaining but also good food for thought.

Q13. what is your most treasured possession?

Some old black and white photographs of my grandparents. Well.. they are rather yellowish now!

Q14. What is your favourite food?

Dampfnudel. A sort of dumpling with a salty, golden-brown crust at the bottom. It is eaten as a main dish together with berry compote in southern Germany.

Q15. What is your favourite place?

The Lavaux Vineyard Terraces in the Vaud region of Switzerland. A rather magical place. Old villages tucked in vineyards surrounded by mountains and Lake Geneva at the bottom. Stunningly beautiful in autumn!

Q16. What would it surprise people to know about you?

I am a certified skiing instructor. My dad used to run the local ski school in the Black Forest when I was little. Unfortunately, I don’t ski much anymore – the downside of living in London.

You can lean more about Daniela's work here.