The first cohort of the MORU–OUCRU Discovery Research Academy, MODRA, has officially graduated following a final four-day workshop held in December 2025 in Sanur, Bali. The workshop marked the conclusion of the programme’s inaugural 18-month cycle and brought together 15 early to mid-career researchers from across South and Southeast Asia to present their research, reflect on their progress, and plan their next steps as independent research leaders.
The third and the final workshop focused on showcasing the results of fellows’ seed grant projects and preparing them for post-MODRA funding and leadership pathways. Each fellow presented findings from their MODRA funded research, followed by discussions on future grant applications, leadership, and research communication. The programme concluded with a graduation ceremony recognising the completion of the first MODRA cohort.
“Many talented researchers reach a stage where strong science alone is not enough to move their work forward,” said Dr Leigh Jones, Director of MODRA and Academic Training Leader at OUCRU and MORU. “MODRA was designed to support researchers at this transition point, by giving them the skills, confidence, and networks needed to lead their own research and compete for international funding.”
Held from 8 to 11 December 2025 at the Mercure Resort Sanur, the workshop brought together fellows, senior researchers and support teams from OUCRU and MORU and representatives from funders (Wellcome and SEA-DREAM). Sessions included candid discussions with funders and reviewers, reflections from successful grant holders, leadership training, and practical guidance on communicating research to broader audiences.
The final workshop built on earlier stages of the programme. Over the course of 18 months, fellows participated in a structured combination of online sessions and in person workshops in Thailand and Vietnam, covering idea development, proposal writing, budgeting, pitching, and project management. Each fellow received seed funding of up to 30,000 US dollars to lead a research project from concept to implementation.
By the end of the programme, fellows had moved beyond proposal development to delivering concrete research outputs. Several participants have already progressed to leading hospital based studies, developing new research platforms, or using MODRA seed funding as a springboard to secure larger international grants. These outcomes reflect MODRA’s emphasis on practical skills, leadership, and locally driven research.
Reflecting on his experience, Dr Phu Pham Tran Vinh, a member of the first MODRA cohort, said, “MODRA provided me with an 18-month seed award that combined high-quality training sessions with a research project. Through this programme, I expanded my professional network, opening doors to collaboration with scientists from different countries. I also strengthened my research capacity and skills, which are essential for my career development. Thanks to MODRA, I feel very fortunate, more confident, and more passionate about my research in infectious diseases. I hope that, building on the support from MODRA, I can contribute more to the scientific community in the future.”
Following graduation, MODRA will continue to engage with its alumni. The programme will provide ongoing consultation and support as graduates prepare and submit international grant proposals and take part in funding interviews, ensuring continued momentum beyond the formal training period.
MODRA is a Wellcome funded initiative jointly led by OUCRU and the MORU With the graduation of its first cohort, the programme moves from pilot phase to proof of concept. A second cohort is already underway, continuing MODRA’s long term goal of strengthening research capacity and regional collaboration across Asia.
