{"id":52792,"date":"2025-09-15T10:32:27","date_gmt":"2025-09-15T03:32:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.oucru.org\/?p=52792"},"modified":"2025-09-15T10:51:33","modified_gmt":"2025-09-15T03:51:33","slug":"modra-cohort-2-begins-empowering-the-next-generation-of-leaders-in-global-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.oucru.org\/vi\/modra-cohort-2-begins-empowering-the-next-generation-of-leaders-in-global-health\/","title":{"rendered":"MODRA Cohort 2 begins: Empowering the next generation of leaders in global health"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

In September 2025, MORU\u2013OUCRU Discovery Research Academy (MODRA)<\/a> held the first workshop for its newly selected Cohort 2<\/a> in Bangkok, Thailand. This intensive training week launched their 18-month journey with MODRA \u2013 a programme that equips early-career postdoctoral researchers with the skills, networks, and confidence to transform research ideas into real-world impact. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

MODRA bridges that gap. It offers tailored training and mentorship to help early-career researchers not just\u202fdo science, but to\u202flead\u202fit. By building these skills now, they are better prepared to become future leaders in global health and infectious diseases research across the region. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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