Journey Through Epidemiology: A Student's Internship Experience at NIH's Division of International Epidemiology and Population Sciences

Ozair Naqvi, a third-year PhD student in Epidemiology at the University of Oklahoma Hudson College of Public Health, completed an internship this summer at the Division of International Epidemiology and Population Studies (DIEPS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland. DIEPS is housed in the Fogarty International Center (FIC) and conducts original research in epidemiology and mathematical modeling of diseases, genomic evolution of pathogens, implementation sciences and population studies while seeking to enhance the scientific underpinnings of policies related to international health. DIEPS works to build research capacity in low- and middle-income countries through training and collaborative research in mathematical modeling, genomic epidemiology, biorisk management, implementation sciences and studies in childhood health and development.

Ozair’s primary work during the internship involved an ongoing research project on the global epidemiology of influenza. He specifically focused on understanding the relationship between the timing and intensity of influenza seasons in Australia and the United States. The aim of this ongoing work is to improve predictive models for influenza transmission and to enhance vaccine distribution strategies. In addition to his main project, Ozair had the opportunity to attend seminars that covered a broad range of topics in infectious disease and global health. These seminars provided invaluable insights into current challenges and innovative solutions in the field. He also had the chance to engage with multiple researchers across the FIC, interacting with experts who are conducting cutting-edge research in diverse regions around the world.

The experience has been more than just a research endeavor for Ozair; it has been a significant step in his professional development. Not only did he gain practical skills related to his field of study, but he also expanded his network, learning from experts who are at the forefront of global health research. The summer at DIEPS has thus enriched his academic journey and provided him with tools and perspectives that he will carry forward in his future research and career.

To learn more about DIEPS and their exceptional research, visit their website: https://www.fic.nih.gov/About/Staff/epidemiology-population-studies/Pages/default.asp