Statement of Purpose

Statement of Purpose
Worldwide, the propensity of mosquito vectors to transmit diseases such as dengue fever,
filariasis and malaria, continue to represent a serious threat to socio-economic development. The
impact of the disease burden is even more pronounced in the tropical regions. Currently, the
absence of a protective vaccine, the spread of parasite resistance to therapeutic drugs and
mosquito resistance to insecticides are the main obstacles to disease control and elimination. Till
date, the use of chemical insecticides makes up most vector control programmes. While being
effective, the dramatic increase in mosquito resistance to these chemicals shows that continual
usage cannot be further relied upon.
From the fore goings, resistance management strategies are very critical, if the efficacy of current
practices is to be preserved. This will require a deep understanding of adaptive mechanisms such
as behavioural and metabolic resistance. Thus, as a prospective graduate student at the
University of Cincinnati, it is my interest to study the mechanisms of insecticide resistance in
mosquito; and consequently identify the molecular basis (genetic markers) for such mechanisms.
Already, I have gained valuable experience in insect studies. My undergraduate research work
focused on the “Larvicidal properties of Datura stramonium and Nicotiana tabacum against
Mosquito (Culicine species)”.
The result of my findings demonstrated that integrated pest management approach cannot be
undermined; an efficient vector control programme cannot solely rely on biological control
alone. Thus, other methods of control including chemical control are essential. Hence, it is my
interest to commit my doctoral research to explore the sustainable complementary approach to
the management of the problem of insecticide resistance in mosquitoes.
My choice of a Ph.D. program at the University of Cincinnati was inspired by the fact that the
institution offers students a balance of educational excellence and real-world experience; and
also the opportunity to learn from faculty members who are ranked as top in their respective
fields among American Universities. Further to this; I am fascinated by the University of
Cincinnati’s tag as a “research heavyweight” and the long rich history of the institution as a
research pioneer. In addition, I am fascinated by the commitment of the institution to advance
multi- and trans-disciplinary initiatives in existing and emerging communities of research
excellence. Also, the grading of the institution as a Tier One university (U.S. News & World
Report) and its ranking in the top 200 of Universities worldwide was instrumental to my choice.
From my research on the Faculty staff in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University
of Cincinnati, I found out that Professor Joshua Benoit’s research interest is in Insect Physiology
and Vector Biology and he has worked on the mechanisms underlying insect stress tolerance in
medically important insects such as mosquitoes and ticks. Leveraging on these, my aim during
the program is to seek knowledge and experience in a variety of techniques, get more proficient
in bioinformatics and field research. I also intend to explore the use of cross-disciplinary
approach in solving vector problems, while fully exploiting national and international
collaborations. More importantly, the privilege to get properly nurtured by seasoned researchers
holds promises that may lead to valuable collaborations for cutting-edge research and knowledge
transfer. Above all, I desire to learn new cultures while projecting the culture of my country on a
global stage. This I believe will provide interactive forums that challenge people to work
together to tackle pertinent vector issues. My home country is at a point where young academics,
like me, are needed to serve dual roles; teachers and role models to younger generations. In
essence, the Ph.D. program in Biological Sciences at your prestigious institution will be central
in achieving this goal, as knowledge and skill gained will be useful in areas of Integrated Pest
management, vector and disease management, genomics and Insect Physiology.
My long term career goal is not just to become an academic, but to serve as a seasoned
consultant to research institutes in my home country in order to collaborate on the development
of innovative insecticide resistance management strategies not just for insects of public health
concern but also for those of agricultural importance. Thus, the doctoral program will help
advance my long-term career plan; improving the quality of livelihood.

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