Daniel A. Boakye – Michael D. Wilson
Young Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Scientist Award
Celebrating Excellence. Inspiring Innovation. Advancing NTD Research.
The Daniel A. Boakye – Michael D. Wilson Young Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Scientist Award is an initiative of the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), University of Ghana, under the auspices of the NMIMR Initiative for NTDs eliminations (NINE) established to recognize and support emerging African scientists making significant contributions to research, innovation, and solutions in the fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).
The award honours the exceptional legacies of Prof. Daniel A. Boakye and Prof. Michael D. Wilson, two distinguished scientists whose groundbreaking contributions to medical entomology, parasitology, vector-borne disease research, and global health have shaped disease control and elimination efforts across Africa and beyond.
Through this award, NMIMR seeks to nurture the next generation of scientists who will continue advancing research, strengthening health systems, and developing innovative approaches to address NTD challenges.
About the Award
Neglected Tropical Diseases continue to affect millions of people, particularly in vulnerable communities across Africa. Addressing these diseases requires a strong pipeline of skilled researchers, innovators, and public health leaders.
The Daniel A. Boakye – Michael D. Wilson Young NTD Scientist Award provides a platform for young scientists to showcase their research, gain visibility, receive expert feedback, and connect with leaders in global health.
The award recognizes research excellence, scientific innovation, and the potential of young researchers to contribute to the control, elimination, and prevention of NTDs.
About the Honourees
Prof. Daniel A. Boakye
Prof. Daniel A. Boakye is a renowned Medical Entomologist with over three decades of experience in research, capacity building, and global health interventions.
His work spans basic biomedical research, operational research, and implementation science, with major contributions to diseases including onchocerciasis, malaria, lymphatic filariasis, schistosomiasis, and other vector-borne diseases.
He has led and contributed to numerous internationally funded research programmes and has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals. His expertise in vector biology, disease transmission dynamics, and elimination strategies has supported disease control efforts across Africa and globally.
Prof. Boakye has also played a significant role in mentoring young scientists and strengthening scientific capacity across the continent.
Prof. Michael D. Wilson (Late)
Prof. Michael D. Wilson was a distinguished scientist whose career was dedicated to advancing knowledge and solutions in neglected tropical diseases.
A former Deputy Director of NMIMR and internationally recognized expert in medical entomology and parasitology, Prof. Wilson contributed significantly to research and global disease control initiatives.
He played a key role in strengthening infectious disease research through his work with the WHO Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR) and contributed to major achievements, including efforts toward the elimination of river blindness.
Beyond his scientific achievements, Prof. Wilson was a mentor and inspiration to many researchers, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, collaboration, and service.
Who Can Apply?
The award is open to:
Early-Career Scientists
Scientists under 35 years who demonstrate commitment to research and innovation in health sciences.
Postgraduate Researchers
MPhil, MSc, and PhD researchers (PhD candidates) undertaking relevant research.
African Scientists and Innovators
Researchers based in Africa working within:
- Universities and academic institutions
- Research institutions
- Health facilities and public health programmes
- Innovation and technology hubs
Research Areas
Applications are welcomed from researchers working in areas related to Neglected Tropical Diseases, including:
- Onchocerciasis
- Lymphatic Filariasis
- Schistosomiasis
- Soil-Transmitted Helminths
- Buruli Ulcer
- Leishmaniasis
- Disease surveillance and diagnostics
- Vector biology and control
- Public health interventions
- Implementation research
- Innovative technologies and solutions for disease control
Application Process
The award application process is integrated into the NMIMR Annual Research Meeting (ARM) abstract submission process.
Applicants who wish to be considered for the award will indicate their interest during abstract submission.
Step 1: Abstract Submission
Applicants must submit an abstract through the NMIMR Annual Research Meeting abstract submission portal.
- Only one abstract per applicant is allowed
- Applicants must indicate their interest in being considered for the award
- Each submission will receive a unique abstract number
Step 2: Selection and Competition
Eligible abstracts will undergo scientific review.
The top five (5) abstracts will be selected to participate in the award competition.
Shortlisted applicants will be required to:
- Submit a signed supervisor/mentor endorsement form
- Present their research live during the NMIMR Annual Research Meeting
Evaluation Criteria
Applications and presentations will be assessed based on:
- Scientific quality
- Research innovation
- Methodological rigor
- Relevance to NTDs
- Potential public health impact
- Clarity and effectiveness of presentation
Judging will be conducted by an experienced panel of scientists and researchers.
Why Participate?
The award provides young scientists with the opportunity to:
✓ Showcase their research to a wider scientific audience
✓ Gain recognition for their work
✓ Receive mentorship and expert feedback
✓ Build networks and collaborations
✓ Contribute to advancing NTD research in Africa
Key Dates
Abstract Submission Opens: June 29, 2026
Submission Deadline: August 07, 2026
Shortlisted Applicants Announced: September 18, 2026
Final Award Presentations: November 25 – 27, 2026
Submit Your Abstract
Are you ready to take your research further?
Submit your abstract through the NMIMR Annual Research Meeting abstract submission portal (NMIMR Annual Research), and indicate your interest in the Daniel A. Boakye – Michael D. Wilson Young NTD Scientist Award.
Contact
For enquiries:
Professor Dziedzom K. de Souza – (+233) 244 434 966
Tarsicius Edem Dorpenyo – (+233) 248 426 235
Email: ddesouza@noguchi.ug.edu.gh / tedorpenyo@noguchi.ug.edu.gh
Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research
University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
Honouring scientific excellence. Empowering young researchers. Accelerating the elimination of neglected tropical diseases in Africa.