On February 2, 2024, our Director, Dr. Thomas Nyirenda delivered a talk to a group of 14 early career researchers via zoom. In this talk the director stressed the importance of a winning mindset, staying disciplined, and making informed choices in research. He emphasized the need for new drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics to combat diseases and the importance of research capacity building. Thom also highlighted the importance of defining a clear vision for a successful career in research, setting realistic plans, and establishing key milestones. He stressed the importance of safe assessment in both planning and research, continuous monitoring and evaluation, self-evaluation and reflection in career development, and the importance of stages in mentorship. Towards the end, he discussed the importance of mentorship, choosing appropriate mentors, and choosing a career that aligns with personal passions and interests.
