At the NIHR Global Health Research Centre LatAm, we deeply value the diversity of backgrounds and talents that enrich the scientific world. That is why we have launched a series of posts to introduce our team of Early Career Researchers — professionals who are beginning their journey in research. Many are currently undertaking postgraduate studies, such as master’s degrees or PhDs, or have recently completed them.
Today we speak with Cleidy Cac, originally from Guatemala and a member of the indigenous Maya Q’eqchi’ community. She shares with us her experience as a research assistant in the Mapping and Arts component at the LatAm Centre, as well as her academic journey and commitment to public health from an intercultural perspective.
What is your role at the LatAm Centre?
I am a research assistant and currently collaborate on the Mapping and Arts component.
What postgraduate programme are you studying, and what inspired you to pursue this field?
I am in the fourth term of a Master’s in Public Health with an emphasis on Epidemiology. I was inspired to study epidemiology because of the aims and approach of the NIHR Global Centre project, and also due to my profession as a nurse working in primary healthcare.
What has been the biggest challenge in your academic training so far?
My main challenge has been mastering the English language, as I am an indigenous Maya speaker and my mother tongue is Q’eqchi’. Therefore, beyond achieving meaningful learning in the Master’s programme, a key goal for me is to be able to read and speak English fluently.
What key skills have you developed during this time?
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Research skills, specifically analytical thinking, time management, critical observation, and data interpretation.
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Basic knowledge of the SPS software.
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Understanding of health policy.
What is the topic of your thesis or dissertation?
Cultural and socioeconomic factors associated with the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus in the indigenous Maya Q’eqchi’ community.
Where do you see yourself in five years with your research?
Firstly, undertaking a PhD in research and, of course, continuing to explore various topics in public health with international collaborators. With God’s help, I also hope to remain part of the NIHR Research Centre, where I have had the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.