The Usher Institute would like to congratulate Francisca Mutapi, Deputy Director of TIBA, on her recent appointment. Image Professor Francisca Mutapi recently joined the Strategic Advisory Group that advises on the development and delivery of the Global Challenge Research Fund (GCRF), a £1.5 billion UK Government research fund. The fund was announced in 2015 to support cutting-edge research that addresses challenges faced by developing countries. The initiative is led by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. Health research Professor Mutapi holds a personal chair in Global Health Infection and Immunity at the University of Edinburgh and is Co-Director of the Global Health Academy alongside Professor Liz Grant. In her role on the advisory committee, Professor Mutapi will draw on her research background and experience of working with policy makers, development partners and other international stakeholders and funders. She will also use her experience as Deputy Director of the Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa (TIBA) partnership, a NIHR-funded initiative that is using research to strengthen health systems in Africa. Other committee members include experts from leading universities, research institutes and charities. Membership of this advisory group gives me the opportunity to use my knowledge and expertise to help the Global Challenge Research Fund deliver significant impact and progress towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Professor Francisca Mutapi Image Professors Mark Woolhouse and Francisca Mutapi at TIBA MD projects launch Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa (TIBA) As part of the Africa in 2019: Prospects and Forecasts Professor Francisca Mutapi, Deputy Director of TIBA, recently launched 4 Making a Difference (MD) projects. These are flagship collaborations, harnessing African science to contribute to reducing the burden of infectious diseases on the continent, thus making a significant impact on the health of affected population. Speaking of the launch Professor Mark Woolhouse the NIHR Global Health Research Unit Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa at the University of Edinburgh (TIBA) Director said “We are proud to be working with some of Africa’s best scientists to find African solutions to African health problems.” Professor James Smith, Vice Principal International, the University of Edinburgh said “TIBA demonstrates the power of working through partnerships in seeking novel solutions to the problems of infectious diseases and emerging epidemics in Africa. Together, the University of Edinburgh and its African partners can contribute to improving the lives of millions of people.” For more details on the projects please visit the TIBA website Publication date 19 Mar, 2019
