ISNTD Kamran Rafiq
Science Communication Internship
Application for the next intake opens in June 2024
The International Society for Neglected Tropical Diseases is delighted to launch its first ever ISNTD Kamran Rafiq Science Communication Internship! Aimed at those aged 18-30, this online internship aims to engage the global youth in the dynamic, multi-faceted and fascinating fields of tropical and infectious diseases, whilst providing an opportunity to discover and develop science communication tools and skills.
What is the ISNTD Kamran Rafiq internship?
Named after Kamran Rafiq, the co-founder of the ISNTD and a passionate science communicator, the ISNTD Kamran Rafiq Science Communication Internship (IKRA-Sci) is a twelve-week online programme to support eight exceptional candidates from around the world discover important aspects and tools in science communication in the fields of tropical and infectious diseases. Through weekly online meetings with the ISNTD, communications professionals and fellow interns, the internship will provide the opportunity for candidates to learn about a variety of media and tools which are used to share information about tropical diseases and those working in this field. Interns will also gain direct hands-on experience and exposure through a series of projects within the ISNTD's many activities, and benefit from ongoing mentoring throughout the partnership.
In addition to supporting the global youth's engagement with science communication in tropical diseases, this internship aims to commemorate the work and legacy of Kamran Rafiq, gone too soon at the age of 51 in June 2023. After co-founding the ISNTD in 2012, Kamran served as the ISNTD's Communications Director for over a decade, and is remembered fondly worldwide for his boundless enthusiasm for learning and sharing knowledge about all things scientific, while always ensuring, with the warmest empathy, that all were made to feel welcome, heard and valued - a true science communicator and connector. Find out more about Kamran, his values and unique approach here.
Who can apply?
The ISNTD Kamran Rafiq Science Communication Internship is aimed at those aged 18-30 years old who are either scientists or students looking to develop their communication skills toolkit, or any candidate passionate about applying their creative flair to disseminating issues in tropical and infectious diseases. We are prioritising qualities over qualifications and so there are no specific academic requirements to apply to the programme; the ISNTD is looking for candidates who are hard-working, creative and curious. A background in global health is preferred but not compulsory, as long as candidates are motivated to learn quickly about this field.
Participants should be fluent in English or French (with some English preferable). They will need access to a reliable internet connection and be available to connect online for about one hour weekly with the group. In addition, the time commitment for this internship is expected to be an additional one-to-two hours per week in your own time, on top of the one-hour weekly group session, or more if you would like further involvement. Please note that the internship is an unpaid voluntary position.
How to apply?
We are very grateful for your consideration for this program: the first round of applications to this programme is now closed, but will reopen for the second intake later in the year 2024.
As applications will be reviewed continually, we would encourage applying as soon as possible once the applications are re-opened. You can keep updated of news at ISNTD including about this internship by signing up to the ISNTD newsletter here.
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For any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Marianne Comparet, ISNTD Director, directly at comparetm@isntd.org. We look forward to hearing from you.
More about Kamran Rafiq
ISNTD Co-Founder
Kamran Rafiq trained with an academic background in Pharmacology & Toxicology as well as Neuroscience. He worked as a research scientist at Schering-Plough Research Center in Milan, Italy, researching neuropeptides and novel mechanisms of pain transmission and Parkinson’s Disease modelling. Upon returning to the UK he worked for Reuters Business Insights setting up their drug discovery intelligence unit, and then assumed leadership roles in further companies, overseeing both Pharma / Biotech and Medical Device Diagnostics market teams. Kamran went on to be Co-founder and Communications Director at the International Society for Neglected Tropical Diseases, where he applied his experience and knowledge of the health sector with creative approaches to tackle some of the most challenging issues in public health and patient engagement. Deceased in June 2023 at the age of 51, he remains much missed by those who enjoyed working with him and exchanging ideas. The following obituaries and memorial pieces highlight some of Kamran's best qualities.
The Lancet, Obituary, Vol 402, Issue 10405, p 844, September 09, 2023
In Memoriam: Kamran Rafiq – A Visionary Leader in Neglected Tropical Diseases (PLOS Blogs)
In Memoriam: Kamran Rafiq, A Beacon of Hope in the Fight Against Neglected Tropical Diseases (Asia Dengue Voice & Action ADVA)
MMV deeply saddened by the loss of Kamran Rafiq (Medicines for Malaria Venture)
In memoriam: Kamran Rafiq (DNDi)
In Memoriam: Kamran Rafiq - A champion in the fight against neglected tropical diseases (LCNTDR)
The International Society for Neglected Tropical Diseases
