VALID8

Millicent is a research assistant at the Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine (KCCR), working with Professor Richard O. Phillips’ research group. In this special VALID8 interview celebrating the 1,000th VALIDATE member milestone, Millicent reflects on her work and experiences within the network.

1 – What do you do / what do you research?

I am a research assistant with the Infection Immunology Research Group at KCCR. Our team focuses on mycobacterial diseases, particularly host–pathogen interactions in tuberculosis.

2 – What drew you to studying vaccines?

Vaccines save lives, and my long-term goal is to help stop TB by turning research into effective vaccines. It’s about time those bugs were stopped!💪

3 – How has VALIDATE shaped your work or career and research so far?

VALIDATE has given me access to resources and a global TB network, and continues to shape my work through valuable feedback at every Annual Meeting since 2023.

4 – What’s your favourite memory or moment from your time with VALIDATE?

My favourite moment was my first international travel experience. The team’s support made it stress-free, memorable, and only occasionally had me wondering if I packed everything 😅.

5 – What do you value most about being connected to 1,000 researchers across 80+ countries?

The potential for collaborations to fight the TB pandemic through shared knowledge and expertise.

6 – What advice would you give to the 1,000th VALIDATE member joining today?

Welcome — you’re in the right place. Make the most of it!

7 – What excites you most about the future of VALIDATE?

I’m excited by how VALIDATE will continue to grow and connect scientists worldwide, helping drive the development of effective vaccines against VALIDATE pathogens.

8 – Describe VALIDATE in one word.

Impactful.