Inspiring Early Career Researchers: Moussa Diouf
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.
Sharing socio-cultural values and attitudes
Moussa Diouf
SENEGAL
Moussa Diouf is a sociologist and health anthropologist studying for his PhD at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, Senegal.
His role within the Shared Values workstream helps to build an understanding of people’s values and perceptions of issues relating directly or indirectly to child stunting.
His specific research focuses on identifying local socio-cultural factors that have led to a low take-up among men of antiretroviral treatment for AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
His increased knowledge and understanding of people’s values and perceptions of AIDS and other STDs has enabled the team to develop socially and culturally appropriate research methods. This has been essential to build participants' trust in the study.
Moussa has enjoyed training courses to develop his skills to analyse health data after sequencing. This has enabled him to share the hub’s work through academic papers with other health scientists.
"The project has been interesting because its investigations go beyond the places or aspects that we thought we would find malnutrition.."
"Once I have finalised my thesis, to find an integration to serve my community and participate in the development of my country is my goal."
The project has supported Moussa in developing administrative and management skills. It has improved his capability to work broadly in his professional environment, and provided extension opportunities to connect with regional industry.
His understanding of the sociology of Kaffrine society has deepened and he has gained experience in related disciplines such as biology and medicine. Developing good relationships with the Kaffrine community has introduced him to new learning around the the ethical issues of research.
Moussa’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.