Research Assistant with Paul Drain, Top Scholar Award, Provost Award

PhD in Implementation Science program

Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a dedicated professional with a robust background in global health, and currently enrolled in the Global Health Metrics and Implementation Science PhD program since 2023. My academic journey began with an undergraduate degree from the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, followed by the completion of a Master of Public Health (MPH) with a specialization in Social Epidemiology at the prestigious Tata Institute of Social Sciences in India. My career has spanned over a decade, during which I have contributed significantly to healthcare initiatives across Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe. Notable positions include roles with PATH, Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders, and the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. In these capacities, I led diverse studies and supported projects aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery, particularly in the realms of tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). My tenure at PATH saw me as a pivotal member of the STAR III initiative, where I played a crucial role in providing evidence on HIV self-testing in India. This experience has greatly influenced my perspective on leveraging research for impactful interventions. I have 17 peer-reviewed publications with over 350 citations. Additionally, I serve as an academic editor for PLOS ONE. In terms of research, my interests lie in infectious diseases, with a focus on person- and community-centered care. Through my PhD program, I am honing my skills to champion quality improvement in healthcare delivery. My overarching goal is to integrate cutting-edge technologies, ensuring that healthcare is not only equitable and accessible but also genuinely person- and community-centric. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to continue making meaningful contributions to global health, and I look forward to the exciting challenges and discoveries that my PhD journey will unfold.

Why did you decide to attend the UW for graduate school?

I chose to pursue my graduate studies at the University of Washington (UW) for several compelling reasons, driven by the institution's unparalleled reputation in Global Health and the alignment of its program offerings with my professional and academic aspirations. The UW's commitment to excellence in Global Health education is renowned worldwide, making it a natural choice for someone deeply immersed in the field. The university's Global Health Metrics and Implementation Science PhD program, which I joined in 2023, stood out as a perfect fit for my research interests and career trajectory. I was particularly drawn to the program's multidisciplinary approach, offering a comprehensive understanding of health systems and implementation science, aligning seamlessly with my background and expertise. Given my extensive work experience, I sought an institution that would not only challenge me academically but also provide the resources and support to translate research into meaningful global health interventions. The University of Washington's global reach in health research presented an ideal platform for me.

What are your research interests?

I am deeply passionate about infectious diseases and have a specific focus on person- and community-centered care within the broader context of strengthening local health systems. Throughout my career, I have consistently worked towards enhancing healthcare delivery. I am keen on continuing to explore innovative approaches and evidence-based strategies to address global health challenges, with a strong emphasis on the intersection of infectious diseases, community engagement, and healthcare system strengthening. My research aims to bridge the gap between academic inquiry and practical, impactful interventions. I am particularly interested in leveraging my academic background and professional experience to contribute to quality improvement in healthcare delivery. Furthermore, I am dedicated to exploring the integration of cutting-edge technologies to ensure that healthcare is not only equitable and accessible but also genuinely person- and community-centric.

What are you enjoying most about your graduate program?

Firstly, the program's interdisciplinary nature integrates various facets of global health, metrics, and implementation science, offering a holistic perspective on healthcare challenges. This multidisciplinary approach allows me to explore diverse methodologies and frameworks, enriching my understanding of how new research methods can be effectively used to answer real-world questions.

The vibrant and global academic community at the University of Washington contributes to a stimulating and collaborative learning environment. Engaging with faculty members and fellow researchers who share a passion for global health has been inspiring. The rich exchange of ideas, perspectives, and experiences has been enriching.