MODRA Cohort 2 begins: Empowering the next generation of leaders in global health

In September 2025, MORU–OUCRU Discovery Research Academy (MODRA) held the first workshop for its newly selected Cohort 2 in Bangkok, Thailand. This intensive training week launched their 18-month journey with MODRA – a programme that equips early-career postdoctoral researchers with the skills, networks, and confidence to transform research ideas into real-world impact. 

For many early-career scientists, completing a PhD is only the beginning. A doctorate equips them with deep knowledge in a specific field, but often leaves gaps in areas such as leadership, financial planning, collaboration, and the ability to connect science with real-world needs. Yet these are the skills required to secure funding, lead teams, and translate research ideas into benefits for society.  

MODRA bridges that gap. It offers tailored training and mentorship to help early-career researchers not just do science, but to lead it. By building these skills now, they are better prepared to become future leaders in global health and infectious diseases research across the region. 

The first workshop of the programme began with self-reflection. Participants used SWOT analysis to understand their own strengths and challenges, and design thinking to imagine new ways of approaching problems. This helped them step beyond the boundaries of their PhD projects and start shaping bold, creative ideas that address pressing health needs in their communities. 

The second half of the week focused on the practical skills every research leader needs. Through interactive sessions, scientists learned how to: 

• Define a clear research vision and achievable outcomes 
• Build realistic budgets and financial plans 
• Write strong, competitive proposals for funding 

By the end of the week, each of the 15 researchers had drafted a seed award proposal, ready to refine and pitch in the next stage. They will have the chance to gain up to USD 30,000 in funding to kick-start their preliminary research. Building on the seed awards, Cohort 1 researchers have taken their projects further, with many going on to secure competitive international grants.  

I think the SWOT analysis was very helpful as it helped me explore more possibilities of what I can do with my career. I also realized that one of my strengths is that I have a good network of people that can help facilitate better research ideas for me and with me. – Dr Natcha Dankittipong, NUS

These skills are very beneficial. I especially appreciated learning about budgeting as every donor might have different requirements. The design thinking and outcomes framework were also very helpful as putting them together in a structured and consolidated way helps us frame our research in a bigger context. – Dr I Nyoman Sutarsa, Udayana University

MODRA is not only about skills, but also about people. Participants met and learned from leading experts in the field of infectious diseases and global health, including Dr Jetsumon Prachumsri, Dr Joel Tarning, Dr Wang Nguitragool, Dr Wirichada Pan-ngum. They also gained professional training from seasoned trainers Mr David Gandy, Dr Leigh Jones, Ms Nantamon Netikul and the Mahidol-Oxford Translational Innovation Partnership team. 

For these junior scientists, the workshop was a launchpad. They left Bangkok with more than just knowledge: they gained the confidence to think big, the tools to make their ideas real, and a network of peers and mentors to support them over the next 18 months, and well into their careers.