My current research is directed towards the improvement of neonatal, child, and maternal health in low-income countries by enhancing the understanding of the major causes of neonatal, child, and maternal morbidity and mortality by designing and testing cost-effective public health interventions against them, and by conducting evaluation and implementation research in support of large programs. I decided to focus my research efforts primarily on neonatal health because this is a much neglected area. Globally, about 3.0 million neonates die each year and there are at least an additional 2.6 million still births. About 60% of all deaths in the first year of life and about 44% of
During the last sixteen years of my service with the IH department, I have successfully raised funds to develop large scale research projects and established partnerships and field sites. I currently have active projects in Bangladesh and Tanzania. These studies are evaluating integrated packages and single interventions to improve newborn and maternal health. The design and scope of these studies are diverse ranging from cluster randomized trials to large scale program evaluations to technical assistance to influence programs and policies.
My other interests are related to the use of evidence in policy and programs, including the development of research capacity and strengthening of public health training and education. I assist national governments, WHO and other international entities with the development of policies intended to improve public health, particularly health of neonates, children, and mothers.