The training organised in partnership with TREND, the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence and the University of The Gambia (UTG), brought together 25 scientists from MRCG at LSHTM and students from the UTG. This initiative aims to empower scientists and students alike in effectively communicating research and navigating the publishing process.

Covering topics such as poster design, writing, and presentation skills, the training was designed to develop essential skills that will amplify participants' work.

Ash Parker and Amalia Braun, postdoctoral fellows at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence and the lead trainers, emphasised the significance of the training.

“This training is crucial in ensuring exchange of ideas and scientific practices that help to maintain the high standard of science coming from both institutes. Science communication is as important as science and together we can improve the standards by which new research ideas are exchanged and discussed across continents. While we are here to teach, we are learning from the scientists here and feel privileged to have such an opportunity to work with inspiring researchers.”

“We believe that this training will significantly enhance our collaboration with the MRCG which was made possible by the TReND in Africa initiative, facilitating collaborations across Africa,” they added.

Jacinta Obiaduo, Scientific Officer at MRCG at LSHTM, highlighted how the training will significantly enhance her professional development.

“These skills will increase my visibility in research and offer me valuable networking opportunities at relevant meetings and conferences to capture the attention of fellow researchers and potential collaborators,” she said.

Nafy Aidara, a Mathematics Lecturer from the University of The Gambia, underscored the importance of participating in such training.

“As a mathematics instructor at the University of The Gambia, these newly acquired skills will enable me to better communicate research findings, apply for financing through well-written grant proposals, and present findings in a clear and fascinating way.”

The skills gained from this training will enhance my ability in scientific writing, poster design and presentation, which are essential for obtaining more research initiatives,” she added.

Dr Abdul Karim Sesay, Head of Genomics at MRCG at LSHTM and longtime collaborator with TReND in Africa’, highlighted that, partners such as the TReND in Africa volunteers play a crucial role in supporting young scientists in The Gambia both at the Unit and in public institutions to build their capacities and foster knowledge transfer.

This collaborative training is part of MRCG at LSHTM’s broader effort to strengthen the capacities of researchers in the subregion, underscoring our commitment to advancing public health through research and training. The team will also be engaging school students during their time in The Gambia.