Genna Jerrard
A 2010 graduate of Bucknell University, Genna Jerrard majored in comparative humanities and international relations while also completing pre-medical studies course work. At Bucknell, her interest in global health flourished outside of the classroom. Jerrard served as a member of the Bucknell GlobeMed chapter, which enabled her to collaborate with physicians in Kabali, Uganda, and work on the first nutrition and rehabilitation center in the region. Following graduation, Jerrard served as a Global Impact Fellow for Unite For Sight, raising thousands for donation to a partner eye care clinic in Accra, Ghana. She traveled abroad to volunteer with the clinic for two months, an experience which she credits with cementing her devotion to global health and infectious disease control as a career path.
After her time in Ghana, Jerrard worked at the Johns Hopkins University Department of Pathology. She is now beginning her second year at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.
Project: "Molecular Markers for Artemisinin-Resistant Falciparum Malaria"
June 14, 2013 - July 24, 2013
Yangon, Myanmar
What does the Kean Fellowship mean to you?
The Kean Fellowship represents a wonderful opportunity to expand my knowledge of clinical translational research in the field of tropical medicine. It allows me to be an active participant in the fight against a devastating infectious disease, and contribute useful knowledge to help eradicate one of the world's leading causes of fatalities in the developing world. It will give me the tools and education I need to turn my interest in tropical medicine research into a meaningful life pursuit.
What do you anticipate learning?
I have learned a great deal about the governmental, scientific and clinical medicine systems behind international health projects. I have also developed a greater understanding of the cultural awareness needed for sustainable clinical management and treatment, as well as the creative skills needed for work in low resource settings.
What interests you about tropical medicine and what problems are you interested in solving?
My interest in tropical medicine came after I was treated for malaria while working abroad in Accra, Ghana. I have a new appreciation for the hardships faced by those who become ill and the lack of resources available to them in developing regions. The chance to contribute useful knowledge to the eradication of malaria in an endemic country is unparalleled, and I am so grateful to the Kean fellowship for allowing me this opportunity.