REFOTDE’s research agenda is strategically aligned with global priorities for infectious diseases, health systems strengthening, and equity-driven innovation in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)
Focus on onchocerciasis, lymphatic filariasis, schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminthiases, and other poverty-related diseases through clinical trials, operational research, and implementation science.
Malaria and Vector-Borne Diseases
Clinical and epidemiological research on malaria, arboviral infections, and emerging vector-borne threats, integrating entomology, environmental science, and digital surveillance.
Co-infections and Syndemics
Research on co-endemic infections (e.g., helminths–malaria, TB–HIV–NTDs) with implications for treatment safety, effectiveness, and programmatic integration.
Environmental and Climate-Linked Health Risks
One Health and planetary health research addressing environmental change, climate variability, and ecosystem disruption as drivers of disease transmission.
Ethics, Community Engagement, and ELSI
Embedded social science research on ethics, trust, informed consent, governance, and community participation in clinical trials.
