From Malaria to Madonna: The Interconnected Nature of Global Health Research

To consider the interconnected nature of global health research, consider four seemingly unrelated Ms: Michigan State, Malawi, malaria, and Madonna. 

Michigan State University’s (MSU) long-standing research efforts in the African nation of Malawi have ranged from developing treatments for children with cerebral malaria—in facilities founded by pop singer Madonna—to understanding the changing behavior of the mosquitoes that carry the disease. 

Addressing global health issues requires these kinds of multifaceted partnerships and collaborations because of the complexity of the issues—and their global impact. 

“I can’t imagine any health issue being nationally or regionally focused,” says Kiki Caruson, PhD, interim vice president of USF World at the University of South Florida (USF). “Rarely will you find something that affects a community that doesn’t transcend a national boundary.”

Global health research collaborations follow many of the same steps as partnerships in other disciplines. However, the unique nature of medical research and the accompanying legal and ethical issues require additional consideration. Experts recommend keeping several strategies in mind to foster successful global health partnerships.

1. Leverage institutional commitment and infrastructure. 

Along with leadership buy-in and a commitment to global research in strategic plans, institutions must create structures to foster health research. At USF, international staff from both USF World and USF Health intentionally connect faculty and staff with partners abroad.

2. Identify opportunities for early career researchers. 

As part of MSU’s ongoing malaria research, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering worked with internal medicine professor Terrie E. Taylor, DO, and colleagues to develop a