Tell us about your current research focus and what brought you to LSHTM?

Andrea: I started my global health career as an intern with a  South Korean government development agency in Tunisia, where I worked on modelling a governance framework to ensure consistent pharmaceutical inventory.  I then worked at the International Vaccine Institute, where I assisted in licensing and technology transfer of the oral cholera vaccine to Africa. This experience has guided my studies at LSHTM, where I hope to conduct economic evaluations to support sustainable vaccine manufacturing in the global south.

Xinyue: My current research focuses on the development and validation of clinical prediction models to improve patient care. Specifically, I work on models that combine multiple variables to predict the probability of an individual experiencing a health outcome of interest.

How did you first become interested in vaccine research?

Andrea: Through my work in Tanzania, I saw the power of mass drug administration campaigns for population health. However, in the case of diseases like schistosomiasis, there are often uncertain demand forecasts and limited market incentives due to a lack of perceived importance and data availability. This realisation drove my interest in Pharmacoeconomics and the creation of evidence-based business models for vaccine development financing in low-income settings.

Xinyue: My interest in developing clinical prediction models was sparked during my undergraduate studies, particularly through the Multivariate Statistics and Machine Learning module. This course demonstrated the mechanisms behind various machine learning algorithms, as well as their real-world applications. This passion was further fuelled by my eight-month undergraduate research project on dose-response modelling using Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli data, where I encountered the ethical challenges of working with costly and limited medical data, particularly data obtained from animal and human testing. This experience ignited a strong desire to advance medical solutions that minimise harm while maximising benefits for patients.

What do you hope to achieve during your time on the VaC management committee?

Andrea: I hope to contribute meaningfully to advancing the Centre’s mission of promoting equitable access to vaccines through research, collaboration, and advocacy. My primary goal is to contribute to initiatives that bridge the gap between vaccine development and accessibility in underserved regions, particularly in the global south. I also hope to amplify the role of student-led research within the Vaccine Centre by creating opportunities for members to present their work, connect with global health organisations, and engage in policy-driven dialogues.

Xinyue: I have already had the opportunity to plan an introductory event for the Vaccine Centre, which sparked my interest in addressing vaccine hesitancy and raising awareness about gaps in vaccine data resources and the compensation scheme for vaccine-related injuries. I hope to collaborate with Vaccine Centre members to gather practical advice and strategies to effectively address these concerns, encourage more people to get vaccinated, and foster greater trust in vaccination programmes.

What do you find particularly interesting working as a member of the Vaccine Centre?

Andrea: What I find particularly exciting is the unique opportunity to engage with leading experts who are actively analysing and promoting the economic benefits of preventive health. The discussions and resources shared by the Centre have deepened my understanding of how vaccines go beyond individual health, serving as powerful tools for economic stability and societal resilience. One of the most fascinating aspects has been being introduced to groundbreaking research on emerging health challenges, such as the global response to Mpox. Learning about new vaccine developments in a currently spotlighted disease and participating in discussions with experts has been both inspiring and intellectually stimulating.

Xinyue: I think the welcoming and inclusive workplace atmosphere, where every opinion is valued has been a wonderful experience. As a Student Liaison Officer, I appreciate how my colleagues are supportive, kind, and willing to include us in meaningful ways.

Where do you think your research will take you?

Andrea: I envision my research paving the way for impactful contributions to vaccine accessibility and sustainable public health financing in low- and middle-income countries. As I am currently studying the MSc Public Health - Health Economics stream, I hope to leverage my learnings to quantify the economic benefits of prevention for accelerating vaccine production and globally equitable distribution through my research.

Xinyue: I believe that after completing my MSc in Medical Statistics this year, I will focus on tackling methodological challenges in predicting the time to healing of venous leg ulcers starting in 2026. The next logical step for me is pursuing a PhD.

What do you like doing in your spare time?

Andrea: I love traveling and connecting with friends (I've visited 28 countries). My passion for travel has been fuelled by my work and studies abroad, which have given me the incredible opportunity to meet people from all over the world. As a result, I’ve built a diverse network of friends across many countries (including London), and I truly enjoy spending time with them whenever I can.

Xinyue: I’m really into watching documentaries about social issues. My interest in them started with a documentary called “Tell Me Who I Am”. I also enjoy reading books and watching dog videos. Two of my favourite books so far are “The Family Upstairs” by Lisa Jewell and “The Neapolitan Novels” by Elena Ferrante.

What would you consider an interesting fact about yourself?

Andrea: I’ve had the unique opportunity to visit a refugee camp in Tanzania near the borders of Uganda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Contrary to the challenges I expected, the camp functioned like a well-organised town, with schools, playgrounds, restaurants, hair salons, and small farms all operating within its boundaries. This experience left a lasting impression, reminding me of the strength of the human spirit and the incredible impact of global cooperation. It’s a story I often share, as it’s a powerful example of resilience and hope even in the face of adversity.

Xinyue: My life goal is to buy a mountain or a large piece of land to build a rescue dog centre.

How can people get and stay in touch with you?

Andrea: Please feel free to follow me on Instagram @eloise.in.paris

Xinyue: You can contact me on LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/xinyue-zhan-julia.