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Epiverse

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Epiverse Epidemiological Data Science Training for Africa

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Overview

data.org is pleased to announce the launch of its inaugural Epidemiological Data Science training program, tailored specifically for the African context. This program offers a comprehensive and structured curriculum, beginning with foundational epidemiology, progressing through an introduction to programming with R, and culminating in practical modules on outbreak analytics. Designed to equip participants with critical analytical and computational skills, the training will run online from June to December 2025. For details on eligibility and application requirements, please refer to the sections below.

This training has been carefully designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of epidemiology while equipping them with foundational computational skills and key analytical procedures. Through hands-on engagement with Epiverse tools, participants will gain practical experience in applying these methods to real-world data. The program also serves as a platform for iterative refinement, ensuring that the tools developed continue to meet the evolving needs of epidemiologists and public health professionals on the ground.

About the Training

Learning Objectives

  • Establish a Strong Epidemiological Foundation – Equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of epidemiology, including its core principles, key methodologies, and real-world applications in public health.
  • Develop Proficiency in R for Epidemiological Analysis – Build participants’ competence in using the R programming language as a powerful tool for data manipulation, statistical analysis, and visualization in epidemiological research.
  • Enhance Data Handling Skills Across Diverse Formats – Provide hands-on experience in managing, cleaning, and integrating various types of epidemiological data, ensuring participants can work with real-world datasets effectively.
  • Master Fundamental Analytical Techniques – Enable participants to conduct essential epidemiological analyses, interpret results critically, and apply insights to inform public health decisions and research.

Cost

This training is offered at no cost to selected participants, ensuring accessibility to those committed to advancing their skills in epidemiological data science. While the structured training sessions are reserved for those admitted into the program, a selection of training materials will be made available to all applicants for self-guided learning. This ensures that applicants who are not selected can still benefit from key resources to build foundational knowledge in epidemiology and computational methods.

Schedule and Duration

The course will run online from the beginning of June to the end of December 2025, with weekly sessions of 3.5 hours each. Satisfactory participation throughout the training will enable participants to receive a certificate of completion endorsed by all training partners. This structured schedule ensures that trainees gain a deep, progressive understanding of epidemiology, computational skills, and analytical techniques over the course of the program.

Curriculum Overview

Foundational Modules (Led by Universidad Javeriana, Colombia)

  • Introduction to Epidemic Theory
  • General Epidemiology
  • Introduction to Statistics and Probability using the epiparameter R Package
  • Epidemiological Parameters Using the epiparameter R Package
  • Building a Deterministic Model

Introduction to R (Led by Applied Epi)

  • Pre-course Installation Support – Provide a smooth onboarding process byguiding participants through R setup.
  • Basic R Syntax
  • Data Cleaning – Part 1
  • Data Cleaning – Part 2
  • Summary Tables
  • Data Visualization
  • Troubleshooting Errors and Getting Help

Epidemiological Data Science (Led by LSHTM/MRCG)

  • Reading and Cleaning Data for Outbreak Analytics with R (3 Modules)
  • Real-time Analysis and Forecasting for Outbreak Analytics with R (7 Modules)
  • Scenario Modelling for Outbreak Analytics with R (4 Modules)

Delivery

The course will be delivered entirely online, ensuring accessibility to participants across different regions. The program will feature a mix of live, instructor-led sessions and self-guided learning modules, allowing participants to engage with the material at their own pace while benefiting from real-time interaction and mentorship. This blended approach ensures a structured yet flexible learning experience, combining theoretical foundations with hands-on practical application. Live sessions will be delivered by experts from Applied Epi, LSHTM, and MRCG.

The course will be delivered in both English and French. Applicants may opt to complete the application form in either language.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Educational Background – Applicants must hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as public health, statistics, computer science, epidemiology, or a related discipline.
  • Target Countries – Eligibility is limited to individuals residing in Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Tanzania, and Togo.
  • Current Employment & Experience – Priority will be given to individuals working within Ministries of Health, particularly those placed in national public health agencies with official endorsement. Additionally, individuals who have completed the Frontline or Intermediate Field Epidemiology Training and Laboratory Program (FELTP) are encouraged to apply.

Individuals who applied for the Epiverse Fellowship Program need not apply as they will be automatically considered alongside applicants for this training.

Deadline

All applications must be submitted by April 13, 2025 by midnight UTC. Late submissions will not be considered. Applicants are encouraged to apply early to ensure they have ample time to complete the process and secure a spot in the program.

How to Apply

  • All applications must be completed through the provided online form.
  • Please provide an up-to-date CV (preferably as a PDF file) as part of your application.
  • Successful applicants will be notified by April 30, 2025 to be onboarded in early May 2025. No interviews or assessments will be conducted as part of the selection process.
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Inquiries

Applicants are encouraged to consult the growing list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) below. If your question has not been answered please send an email to epiverse@data.org with the subject “Epiverse Training Question.”

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What software or tools do I need for the training?
    Participants will need access to a computer with a stable internet connection. The training will use R and RStudio, which will be covered in a pre-course installation support session. Additionally, participants will be required to install Zoom to attend live sessions.
  2. Can I apply if I am currently a student?
    The program is primarily designed for working professionals in public health, particularly those in government health agencies. However, exceptional candidates with relevant backgrounds may be considered.
  3. Will the sessions be recorded?
    Some sessions may be recorded for learning purposes, but live attendance is required to engage in discussions, group activities, and assessments.
  4. Will I have assignments or coursework outside of the sessions?
    Yes, participants will be expected to complete practical exercises, coding assignments, and analytical tasks to reinforce learning between sessions. Participants will need to set aside an additional 4-6 hours per week to complete additional exercises.
  5. Can I take the course at my own pace?
    While some modules are self-guided, others are live and scheduled. Participants are strongly encouraged to attend the live sessions as part of the structured training to maintain continuity in learning.
  6. Will I receive technical support during the training?
    Yes, pre-course support will be provided for installing and setting up R, and ongoing assistance will be available for troubleshooting technical issues during the training.
  7. Can I apply if I do not have prior experience with R?
    Yes! The training includes a dedicated Introduction to R module, covering everything from installation to data cleaning, visualization, and troubleshooting.
  8. Can my employer or institution sponsor my participation?
    While the course is free for selected applicants, applicants who are employed in public health institutions are encouraged to seek official endorsement from their organization, especially if they work in a Ministry of Health or a national public health agency.
  9. How will this training help my career?
    The program equips participants with in-demand epidemiological data science skills, enhancing their ability to conduct outbreak analytics, data-driven decision-making, and public health research—valuable for careers in public health agencies, research institutions, and international organizations.
  10. What makes this training unique?
    This program integrates cutting-edge epidemiological data science tools, open-source R packages developed by the Epiverse community, and real-world applications tailored for public health professionals in Africa. It provides a holistic learning experience that bridges theory, computation, and practical decision-making.

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