Inspiring Early Career Researchers: Mifa Nurfadilah
More than fifty Early Career Researchers have made significant contributions towards the Action Against Stunting Hub workstreams in India, Indonesia, Senegal and the UK.
In this series, researchers reflect on their personal and professional growth through contribution to Hub research.
Behind the Scenes of Research
Mifa Nurfadilah
INDONESIA
Mifa Nurfadilah is one of a number of early career researchers based at the Centre for Excellence in Food and Nutrition For Quality Human Resources, SEAMEO RECFON, Her work with the AASH sits within Epigenetics, Gut Health, and Nutrition workstreams.
Since completing her Master’s degree in DNA vaccine for tuberculosis, Mifa has enjoyed her work at the Hub using her invaluable laboratory skills.
Two years into her role, Mifa reflects on her journey with the project where she has gained many new skills.
"The project has given me the opportunity to join the training, discuss, work together, learn values and ethics from the team in-country and researchers from AASH country partners.
Throughout the project, I made many friends who shared the same vision, despite our different backgrounds. While there were many struggles working in unfamiliar areas, the team's support helped us grow together."
During her early days she valued the insight into the ‘behind-the-scenes work,’ including how the team of dedicated researchers established trust with families, mothers, children, and babies participating.
"It's been an experience I never imagined I'd have."
In her first year with the Hub, she embarked on two training courses - on DNA extraction from saliva and a course on Microbiome analysis.
As the project evolved with more participants, as did the need for the ECRs to gain skills in analysing data from samples. Mifa took part in two further courses on Data Analysis on Parasite detection and Microbiome Data Processing. This has been invaluable to inform her contribution to publications.
Overall, Mifa reflects that the project has not just given her opportunities for professional development on research projects but has contributed towards her personal growth.
As this phase of the Action Against Stunting Hub research concludes, Mifa wants to continue exploring the comprehensive data and samples that have been collected.
"The training has allowed me to apply and enhance my skills in laboratory analysis and research methodologies. Being involved in the project, including the publication process, has expanded my understanding of research.
Working in this project not only taught me a lot but also helped me see things in new and valuable ways. This experience has been enriching me, both professionally and personally.’
Mifa's story demonstrates the significant impact of the Action Against Stunting Hub in equipping young researchers with essential skills and experiences, paving the way for their future contributions to clinical nutrition and public health.