Sampling strategies for the evaluation and monitoring of vector control tools

Malaria infections and morbidity are heterogeneously distributed across both time and space. Malaria elimination, and indeed more cost effective control, requires a more detailed description of this variation and an understanding of its drivers. The student will use genomics, spatial statistics and an epidemiological sampling framework to understand what drives hotspots of malaria transmission in Malawi.

As malaria transmission falls heterogeneities in disease burden become more marked. This project will determine what drives these heterogeneities with an aim of developing targeted interventions which are central to disease eradication efforts. The student will work within a group who are leading the implementation and assessment of novel vector control tools in Africa. In addition project the will directly impact malaria control policy in Malawi though our participation in the Malaria in Pregnancy, Knowledge Translation and Vector control working groups which shape the National Malaria Strategy.