Winfred Kendi, a PhD candidate at Chuka University and Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences, is making significant strides in Malaria research through her doctoral research at the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
She recently participated in a prestigious two-month staff exchange program in Greece, a collaborative initiative between ICIPE and the European Project Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (Research and Innovation Staff Exchange, Call: H2020-MSCA-RISE-2020). This program, titled “Training Next-Level Scientists and Researchers to Develop Highly Selective and Safe Insecticides” (www.cyptox.eu), provides a vital platform for international scientific collaboration.
Winfred was one of only three African students selected to conduct part of their PhD research in Europe, working in state-of-the-art laboratories at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB) and the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH) in Crete, Greece.
Her research focuses on the molecular analysis of insecticide resistance mechanisms in major malaria vectors. Utilizing RNA sequencing technology, she aims to characterize gene expression patterns in resistant mosquito populations. This work is essential for the development of urgently needed molecular diagnostic tools that facilitate the early detection of insecticide resistance, thereby supporting global efforts to monitor, manage, and mitigate resistance in malaria vectors and ultimately reduce the malaria burden.
The exchange program seeks to equip researchers with advanced knowledge and skills through mobility and training, enhance transferable skills and career prospects, foster opportunities for high-impact publications and patents, and promote networking, mentoring, and international exposure.
Chuka University is …… Inspiring Environmental Sustainability for Better Life
