Dr Aho aspires to lead scientific research

National
Dr Celestine Aho was recently awarded a PhD in microbiology at the Menzies School of Health Research, affiliated with Charles Darwin University. – Picture supplied

DR CELESTINE Aho has always aspired to lead scientific research that translates into practical results for Papua New Guinea.
It was that ambition that led her into an early career as a scientific officer in Goroka – and prompted her to continue to develop her skills.
“Before going for further studies, I came to a point where I knew I wanted to do more than just laboratory work,” Dr Aho said.
“I realised I wasn’t in a position to lead research and to be able to do that I needed to get a PhD and be equipped with the skills required to be an independent researcher in order to compete for research grants and lead research in PNG.”
Dr Aho decided to apply for a doctorate through the Australia Awards Scholarships programme in 2015.
Her efforts paid off and she was recently awarded a PhD in microbiology at the Menzies School of Health Research, affiliated with Charles Darwin University in the Northern Territory, Australia.
Dr Aho has wasted no time in applying her new qualifications and knowledge to support healthy communities back in PNG.
As a research fellow at the Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research in Goroka, Dr Aho is part of a team conducting Covid-19 diagnostic tests for communities across PNG, under the supervision of fellow Australia awards alumna Dr Janet Gare.
Dr Aho believes her doctoral study has helped her to support an effective response to the pandemic.
“I have a better understanding of disease transmission and techniques in pathogen detection which has benefited my current role,” she said.
“I am confident in my scientific, writing and analytical skills and I am a better researcher.”
In addition to her work on the Covid-19 response, Dr Aho is undertaking research on otitis media (middle ear infection) among children in PNG, building on her PhD thesis which looked at understanding pathogens with relevance to otitis media management in PNG.
Dr Aho’s doctoral research was partly supported by the Allison Sudradjat Prize she was awarded in 2015.
The prize is given annually to outstanding Australia Awards scholars.