Where are you from?
Spain
What is your role at LSHTM / MRC Unit The Gambia at LSHTM / MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, and what does it involve?
I work with large teams at the MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit and Zambart in Zambia in several field-based projects validating diagnostics closer to the user and optimising treatment for different forms of schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease in vulnerable populations - preschool children and adolescent girls.
How long have you worked here and what was your previous job?
I’ve worked at LSHTM since 2016. Previously I worked clinically at different NHS trusts across London and academically at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and St George’s University, London.
Tell us about a project you’re currently working on:
The Zipime Weka Schista! (Do self-testing sister!) study is an exciting longitudinal cohort in Zambia that aims to integrate screening of female genital schistosomiasis and HPV through genital self-sampling. We are also conducting a clinical trial, Praziquantel in Preschool Children (PIP trial), aiming to find the dose of praziquantel (drug to treat schistosomiasis) for preschool children in Uganda.
What is your favourite thing about working at LSHTM?
The multidisciplinary expertise and being around like-minded people.
“When I’m not working I am…”
Always starting little projects, sketching with pen and wash, hiking, listening to music in a club… I could go on!
What three words would you use to describe yourself?
I asked my daughter, she said: “tireless, constructive and positive” - I’ll endorse them!
What three words would you use to describe your role?
Enthusiastic Field Epidemiologist.
What would it surprise people to know about you?
I worked as a storyteller throughout university.
What is a typical day for you?
No such thing as a typical day for me! But preparing breakfast for my children is still important whatever else the day brings.
What is your proudest career achievement?
My early Wellcome Trust SEED award. It was a small starting grant with a bold out-of-the-box idea; to detect a parasite in the genital tract with a genital self-swab. It had never been attempted before and it paved the way to larger and exciting projects working in the wider sexual and reproductive health context with adolescent girls and also women of all ages.
What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Always choose what makes your heart race.
How does being a member of MARCH support your work?
MARCH covers all aspects of the life course and I work with both adolescents and children - two of the MARCH themes. It is very stimulating to encourage networking, linking people, showcasing member’s work both as co-lead of the Children’s theme with Marko Kerac, as well as a member. By far, my favourite part is working with students - the next generation.
If everything goes to plan with your work, what do you hope to have achieved in 10-years' time?
Blue sky thinking:
- See screening for sexual and reproductive health infections truly integrated in the health systems of (at least a few) Sub-Saharan countries
- See preschool children treated for schistosomiasis as part of their routine vaccination programmes
- Be part of further development of drugs and diagnostics for neglected tropical diseases
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