DrFlorence Fouque

My professional experience and personal involvement are on the broad knowledge of insects vector of diseases and on the development and implementation of new vector control strategies in particular against the vectors of arboviruses, malaria and leishmaniasis, as well as the development of capacity in those fields. My first position was as an assistant at the Polytechnic School of Zurich to work on the biological control of insects vectors and pests. Then, I joined the International Network of the Pasteur Institutes for more than 20 years to work in/for different countries affected by Tropical Diseases and Poverty. I had the opportunity to participate and lead several research projects on different vectors acquiring experience and knowledge on both the vector biology and the project management in different ecological, socio-economics and political environments. The research programs I was involved in were also contributing actively to regional and country efforts to develop sustainable local research capacity, develop successful partnerships and collaborations. In 2014, I joined the WHO Special Programme for research and training on Tropical Diseases (TDR) as Unit Lead for the Vector Environment and Society Unit. Our activities were looking at the broader issues that affect the transmission of pathogens through vectors, through interdisciplinary approach with communities. Since 2019, I am working as a Scientist in the TDR Implementation Research Unit, supporting research and capacity building projects through multi-sectorial approaches for prevention and control of vector-borne diseases in partnership with other sectors than health such as water and sanitation, agriculture, education, housing, and others. Our activities are strongly focusing on improving the health of the most vulnerable and hard to reach populations, most affected by the diseases of poverty.