I am applying for the Master of Molecular Biology (IPMB) Scholarship to strengthen and update my theoretical, research and practical

skills. I have obtained a Bsc. Medical Laboratory and am currently working as a xxxxxxx at Mbarara University of Science and Technology, here in Uganda. I am involved in doing this and that (just a small summary.say one or 2 sentences). Given such a background, I believe that it is vital that I further my knowledge in Molecular Biology as it would be an essential component in my professional career. I would like to study at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) which has a unique research policy that encourages creation of cross-disciplinary expert networks with all round expertise, guidance and framework which are essential in the Modern day international collaboration amongst countries. More than 80% of diseases in Developing countries are caused by infectious agents. Diagnosis of infectious diseases is increasingly going to molecular level. Infectious diseases have gained importance with increased incidence of chronic, often fatal cases in Immunosuppressed patients especially in developing countries such as Uganda. Patients particularly at risk are those with HIV/AIDS, Diabetes, among others. The challenges of diagnosis of infectious diseases include, but are not limited to; insufficient expertise, inadequate isolation, identification and characterization of pathogenic elements from specimens, absence of lesions. Hence the need for know how in recent technological advances to precisely Identify infectious disease agents and make specific diagnosis. This course will equip me with the necessary techniques for the diagnosis and control of these infectious diseases in addition to acquiring the ability to cope with a wide range of scientific problems and challenges; and the intellectual tools needed to develop a molecular biological approach to tackle the problems which we are facing in Uganda. The training will enable me to gain expertise in the above mentioned areas and contribute to infection control and proper management of the patients attending the Mbarara University Teaching Hospital. The knowledge gained during this Masters course will go a long way in improving my career as a better laboratory scientist and healthcare provider, empower me to be able to do meaningful research in the Medical field and therefore contribute to knowledge that will be used in the fight against infectious diseases on return to my home country, Uganda.

The skills attained will be shared with fellow staff in the laboratory, students training at the Mbarara University Teaching Hospital, and institutions in the neighboring community.