MSc Vaccinology Students Explore Research at Wits RHI

On 19-20 November 2024, a group of MSc Vaccinology students visited the Wits RHI Research and Maternal and Child Health teams, bringing their enthusiasm and curiosity to this enriching experience. Over the two days, they gained valuable insights into the clinical research process and the pivotal role public health research plays in improving health outcomes.

The visit began on 19 November with an informative session led by the Wits RHI Research Team and Clinical Trials Operations Managers (CTOM), who provided a comprehensive overview of the Clinical Research Site (CRS). The students explored key studies, such as BIYELA, HOPE II, COVPN, PALISADE, MK, and NGG, diving deep into ongoing trials and their potential to transform public health.

On 20 November, the students attended a lecture by Professor Helen Rees, Wits RHI’s Executive Director, where they benefited from her extensive expertise in vaccinology. This was followed by sessions with the Maternal and Child Health Team on Quality Assurance (QA), Quality Control (QC), Investigators, Study Coordinators, Nurses, and Pharmacy. These engagements emphasized the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in advancing clinical trials.

Throughout the visit, the students’ insightful questions and keen interest highlighted their commitment to the field of vaccinology. Their enthusiasm underscores the importance of fostering the next generation of researchers to drive public health innovation.

Wits RHI is proud to offer opportunities for knowledge-sharing and collaboration with emerging researchers. We look forward to seeing how these experiences inspire their future contributions to public health and vaccinology.

In the images above : MSc Vaccinology students explore our cutting-edge research site, gaining insights into groundbreaking studies and the vital role of community engagement in advancing health outcomes.