Let's spotlight our science talents: Dr. Vivi Maketa
Bayer Foundation awarded Dr. Vivi Maketa with the prestigious Early Excellence in Science Award 2023 in Medical Science, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the design and implementation of research projects on infectious and neglected tropical diseases.
Maketa is a professor at the Department of Tropical Medicine at the University of Kinshasa, DR Congo, where she is dedicated to demonstrating the safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of novel drugs and vaccines.
Interview by Sophie Fessl
What is the goal of your research?
Maketa: My goal is to generate knowledge and create interventions that can truly improve the health and well-being of the communities I work with, particularly in the areas of tropical and neglected diseases. I aim to ensure that the studies I’m involved in have a tangible, positive impact on people’s lives. I make sure the studies are easy to grasp and that the communities are actively engaged.
What has been your biggest success so far?
Maketa: I am most proud of being able to serve as a bridge between international research consortia and the communities where the studies take place. I’ve worked on Ebola, malaria, COVID-19, and other critical health issues, always with a community-focused approach. At the same time, I place a strong emphasis on ensuring the research benefits the communities in hands-on ways. This includes providing ancillary care to trial participants, donating medical supplies, and working to strengthen local healthcare systems.
Bayer Foundation Early Excellence in Science Award Winners 2023
What does receiving the Bayer Early Excellence in Science Award mean to you?
Maketa: As someone who comes from a country that is not always at the forefront of global scientific recognition, this award has been a powerful confirmation of the hard work and impact of my research. It’s a testament to the fact that if you maintain rigorous standards, work tirelessly, and stay focused on making a real difference, your achievements can be recognized on the global stage, regardless of where you’re from.
What opportunities have arisen for you as a result of the award?
Maketa: The award has helped expand my professional network and brought invitations to speak at prestigious conferences. I have been invited to not only be part of a panel at the American Society of Tropical Medicine & Hygiene Annual Meeting 2024, but also to give a presentation at the meeting. The award and the online presentation I delivered have raised my profile in so many ways.
Boundary Breaking Science Lecture with Dr. Vivi Maketa on Tropical Medicine
Early Excellence in Science Awards
Bayer Foundation’s Early Excellence in Science Awards honor talented early career scientists (up to seven years after completion of their PhD or MD) from all over the world for pioneering research achievements. The award has four categories: Biology, Chemistry, Medical Science, and Data Science. The winners in each category receive prize money of EUR 10,000.
