Dr Derick Osakunor
My background is in global health, infection, and immunity with particular interest in schistosome morbidity and immuno-epidemiology. I have extensive collaborative experience in multicultural environments across Europe, USA, and Africa, leading to multiple impact-led research and policy. My research has significantly contributed to our understanding of schistosomiasis and have contributed to recommendations for national schistosomiasis control programs, and to WHO guidelines for verification of schistosomiasis control. Notably, my pioneering work on paediatric schistosomiasis has addressed critical evidence gaps, providing insights into incidence, pathology, treatment responses and potential mechanistic links to poor health in children aged 3 months to 5 years.
As part of a multidisciplinary team, I am currently exploring the factors shaping schistosome epidemiological patterns and disease, and to quantify the burden and impact of disease on overall health and quality of life. The project also aims to provide strong, locally-informed, behaviourally-consistent guidelines for the design and feasibility of complex schistosomiasis interventions to reduce transmission and provide a novel framework for future research across water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH)-associated diseases.
My long-term goal is to demonstrate how research findings can be integrated into existing health systems to improve health policy and planning, health systems delivery, and achieving universal health care.
Email: derick.osakunor@glasgow.ac.uk
Twitter: @GlobHealthDoc
Relevant Publications
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4853-5384
