CALL FOR APPLICATIONS MSc/MPH & PhD STUDENTS
ADAPT — Accelerating onchocerciasis elimination in Cameroon through an integrated system-based approach
Introduction
As part of the implementation of a collaborative research project entitled “Accelerating onchocerciasis elimination in Cameroon through an integrated system-based approach (ADAPT)” supported by the Institut ExposUM of the University of Montpellier (France), the Translational Research and Development Foundation (TREND Foundation) is seeking two (02) students: one (01) Master (MSc/MPH) and one (01) PhD with an appreciable level in oral and written English.
ADAPT aims to identify the dominant drivers of persistent onchocerciasis transmission and their combined effects through an integrated systems-based approach. This project will be conducted over two years in the Bafia and Ndom health districts of Cameroon, both characterised by high onchocerciasis transmission rates. It combines social sciences with clinical, parasitological, and entomological investigations. Data collected through these complementary approaches will be integrated using systems modelling to identify dominant feedback mechanisms sustaining transmission. This will allow to prioritise high-impact interventions on leverage points.
Requirements and Eligibility
- For the PhD position: Applicants must hold a Master's degree or equivalent in Biology (Parasitology/Microbiology), Public Health, Epidemiology or a related field;
- For the MSc/MPH position: Applicants must have completed a Master 1 Degree in the field of Parasitology/Microbiology or Public Health;
- For both positions: Selected students will be fully involved in study design, field trips, data collection, data analysis, and any other task associated with the project. They must be able to integrate, collaborate, and interact with a multi-disciplinary research team, including national program managers, district medical officers, and community members. Ability to travel to field sites across Cameroon is required.
Application Process
Applications will include a Motivation Letter (clearly indicating which position the candidate is applying for: PhD or MSc/MPH), a detailed Curriculum Vitae, Academic Transcripts, and a support letter from previous supervisor/teacher. All documents should be submitted as a single PDF file to contact@trendfoundation.org on September 30th, 2026. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered. Shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview mid-October 2026.
Contacts
Dr. Hugues C. Nana Djeunga (MSc, PhD, HDR). Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O.), Translational Research and Development Foundation (TREND Foundation), Yaoundé, Cameroon.
Prof. Laurentine SUMO (MSc, PhD). Associate Professor of Parasitology & Ecology, Faculty of Science, University of Ebolowa, Ebolowa, Cameroon / Head of Research and Innovation Department, Translational Research and Development Foundation (TREND Foundation), Yaoundé, Cameroon.
Applications are no longer being accepted.
contact@trendfoundation.org
Deadline: September 30, 2026