By: Joshua Eliud Omondi – Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases Unit
When I came across the call for applications for the internship at the Center, I immediately knew that was where I wanted to work. It represented the perfect next step for my career – a chance to apply anthropological perspectives to real-world public health challenges and contribute to research that truly serves communities. In hindsight, I feel fortunate that my career choices led me to this remarkable organization.
As I first stepped into my undergraduate Anthropology program, I had no clear vision of where it would lead. Like many students, I questioned the field’s relevance and career prospects. Some people confused it with entomology, while others wondered what I could possibly do with such a degree. I’ll admit—I was also figuring it out as I went along. However, as I immersed myself into my studies, I discovered that anthropology wasn’t just about studying cultures in isolation; it was a powerful lens for understanding health behaviors, community dynamics, and the social factors that drive disease transmission. This revelation hit me particularly hard when I began exploring how cultural practices and social structures influence the spread of infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS. Suddenly, I saw how anthropological insights could transform public health interventions from generic programs into culturally responsive, community-driven solutions.
This intersection of culture and health became my passion. I threw myself into community work, volunteering with street children, supporting elderly populations, and assisting internally displaced communities. Through health education blogging and grassroots initiatives, I witnessed firsthand how understanding people’s lived experiences could make health programs more effective and sustainable.
My undergraduate journey in Anthropology ultimately led me to pursue a Master of Public Health, where I could formally bridge these two fields. As such, when I came across the internship at APHRC, I saw a chance to apply anthropological perspectives to real-world public health challenges and contribute to research that truly serves communities.
How I found out about the internship position.
I first learned about the APHRC internship through a WhatsApp job group post about a mass recruitment for interns. Despite previously sending multiple unsuccessful job applications to the Center, I decided to apply one more time, with the conviction that I would be lucky this time. To my surprise, I was shortlisted, interviewed, and selected for the internship under the Post-COVID-19 Handwashing Project.
Expectations about the internship.
Initially, I expected the internship to involve limited tasks and minimal interaction, and I was mentally prepared for this. But it turned out to be the complete opposite. On my first day, I met colleagues who I initially thought were regular staff members, only to learn that they were fellow interns. I quickly realized that it would be a challenge distinguishing interns from regular staff members at APHRC, as all are accorded equal treatment. Needless to say, it was—and still is—a great working environment. Staff are easily approachable, regardless of position, allowing for an inclusive and supportive work environment where one can easily connect with professionals from diverse backgrounds. I could say APHRC is a textbook example of what a healthy work environment should look like.
Valuable experiences during the internship
Before my internship, I had no hands-on experience in research, despite having theoretical knowledge. With guidance from the Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases (ERID) unit team, I supported five projects at different stages, from inception to the end of the project. I supported protocol and tool development for the Post-COVID-19 Handwashing project, conducted coding and analysis for the Blantyre Prevention Strategy, contributed to manuscript development for the Kenya Multimorbidity Integrated Surveillance project, and attended various seminars and training sessions. These experiences equipped me with essential research skills and boosted my professional profile.
My background in blogging and health communication also proved valuable. I contributed to writing blogs for the ERID unit. One was on Boosting retention in longitudinal studies based on the DREAMS project and another titled “Mastering Grant Writing and Management: Strategic Insights for African Research Institutions. I also wrote an article in the APHRC 2025 Newsletter Issue 1 reflecting on the Post-COVID-19 Handwashing project. These experiences have enhanced my ability to communicate and write effectively.
Additionally, I had the opportunity to explore the area of neglected tropical diseases. I did this by developing a concept to assess caregivers’ health knowledge and risk factors associated with intestinal worm infections in children under five years old in Viwandani informal settlement, Nairobi. With the support of my supervisor and fellow interns, I refined and expanded the idea further by researching on the topic from various publications, as well as using my practical experience from the Post-COVID-19 Handwashing project. This experience provided an early glimpse of what it takes to be a researcher, from developing a research topic from the ideation stage to translating it into practical components. It also highlighted the essential details and processes to consider when drafting a proposal.
Although I preferred qualitative research, my interaction with other researchers helped me grow in quantitative methods as well. I learned to use statistical software like Stata and worked closely with statisticians on the team, enabling me to build a well-rounded research skillset.
Advice to future interns at APHRC.
APHRC offers significant learning and growth opportunities. I recommend that anyone seeking to advance their career and to make a difference in society consider joining the Center. To make the most of the experience, interns should be proactive, meet deadlines, engage with others, and seek guidance when needed.
Future expectations.
Looking ahead, I’m optimistic that my internship at APHRC will serve as a launchpad for a fulfilling career in global health research. I aspire to empower communities to take charge of their health and create avenues for them to thrive in every aspect. The skills, exposure, and connections I have gained have prepared me to pursue my goals and to contribute meaningfully to public health initiatives both locally and internationally. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to intern at APHRC and look forward to continuing my journey in advancing health across African communities.