Inspiring Early Career Researchers: Ndeye Sokhna Diop
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.
Microbiome Research
Ndeye Sokhna Diop
SENEGAL
Ndeye Sokhna is a PhD student working on the SENGSYN study at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, Senegal.
Since joining the Action Against Stunting Hub in 2020, Ndeye has been an invaluable asset to the Gut Health and Microbiome workstream teams. Her background in molecular epidemiology gave her a strong foundation for her work on the project.
From the outset Ndeye looked forward to extending her scientific knowledge with the prospect of contributing towards research on children’s growth related to microbiome studies.
Throughout her work on the project, she has enjoyed furthering her scientific skills and knowledge.
She particularly found her training on Microbiome Data Analysis and Sample Storage from the University of Aberdeen equipped her with essential skills for her research, allowing her to effectively analyse data post-sequencing.
"I see with this training I have the ability to analyse the data after sequencing and explore the parameters creatively."
The project has significantly influenced Ndeye’s personal and professional growth. It provided her with opportunities to interact with esteemed professionals, improve her English, and publish her work. Professionally, the project has allowed her to gain in-depth knowledge of microbiome data analysis, essential for her thesis and future research.
Ndeye plans to continue her research, aiming to advance science and contribute to community health. She emphasises the importance of helping children as they represent the future. Her journey underscores the project's role in enhancing scientific knowledge and fostering a commitment to community wellbeing.
"Every day I am in search of knowledge,. The project has allowed me to rub shoulders with great people, to get by in English and to promote my work through papers."
"Health first, let's do our best to help children, because they are the future."
Ndeye'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.