How did you first become involved with ACTG? What drew you to the network? I first became aware of the ACTG through reading its publications. I was impressed by the breadth and quality of the research, and the network’s commitment to addressing important questions in HIV care through international collaboration. I knew it was a community I wanted to be part of. I later became involved through the MU-JHU Research Collaboration, an ACTG clinical research site.
What area(s) of research are you focused on in your work with ACTG? What has been most meaningful? My work with ACTG focuses on aging among people with HIV. As part of the IHIMP award, we examined the incidence and risk factors for hospitalization among people with HIV using the ACTG HAILO study data. Seeing the progress from an initial research idea to a published manuscript has been especially rewarding. It reinforced my passion for understanding the comorbidities associated with aging and highlighted the importance of generating evidence that can improve long-term care for people with HIV.
How has your work with ACTG influenced the work you do in other spaces? Working within ACTG has broadened my perspective as a researcher. Being part of a global network has shown me how the challenges of HIV and aging differ across settings while also highlighting opportunities for shared learning. It has encouraged me to approach my local research with a global perspective. The collaborations and scientific discussions have strengthened my research skills and inspired new research questions.
What were the highlights of your tenure in the IHIMP? There have been many memorable experiences. Presenting my work as an oral presentation at the International Workshop on HIV and Aging 2024, in Washington, DC, was certainly a highlight. I also benefited greatly from participating in the monthly Co-morbidities Transformative Science Group and Study Engagement Committee meetings; I learnt a lot from the scientific discussions with experienced investigators. Attending conferences such as CROI and ACTG’s Annual Meeting expanded my professional network and exposed me to cutting-edge research in HIV.
Can you describe your experience with your mentors and how has it impacted your work? I was fortunate to be mentored by Prof. Kristine Erlandson and Prof. Philippa Musoke, and I also worked closely with Prof. Aaron Tobian. Their mentorship has been invaluable. They provided guidance throughout every stage of the research process—from developing research questions and analyzing data to manuscript writing and grant development. Beyond the technical skills, they also introduced me to a broad network of collaborators and advised me to plan strategically as I work towards becoming an independent researcher. Their support continues to shape the way I approach research and career development.
How will your experience with the IHIMP impact your future work? The IHIMP has strengthened my commitment to research on aging with HIV. While people with HIV are living longer, there is still limited evidence on aging-related comorbidities in sub-Saharan Africa. I plan to continue working to help address these knowledge gaps through collaborative research. Participating in the Study Engagement Committee also helped me better appreciate the perspectives and priorities of people living with HIV, reinforcing to me the importance of patient-centered research.
Why is the IHIMP important? The IHIMP provides an exceptional environment for early-career investigators to grow. It offers access to experienced mentors, research-related training, resources, and opportunities to collaborate with leading scientists worldwide. This kind of support is rarely available, especially for researchers from resource-limited settings.
What comes next for you? I plan to continue working with my mentors and collaborators on addressing key questions in aging with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. Securing funding to support these studies is obviously key and is what keeps me awake at night.
What advice would you give a young researcher starting with ACTG now? Take advantage of every opportunity the network offers. Attend committee meetings regularly, engage with mentors, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or share your ideas. ACTG provides access to rich datasets, stored specimens, and an incredible community of researchers who are genuinely invested in supporting early-career investigators. The more you engage with the network, the more you will gain from it. The relationships you build are just as valuable as the science.
When you’re not working, what helps keep you grounded? Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and taking part in community activities. These moments help me recharge, maintain perspective, and remind me why improving health through research is so important.