Spotlight on… Patrick Agumenaitwe and Adah Tumwegamire

As told to URBAN ARCH Admin Core staff, September 2024

Tell us about what led you to work in the research field, and what led you to work on the TALC and TRAC studies.

Adah: My journey into research field began during my time working for International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) based at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital’s (MRRH) Immune Suppression Syndrome (ISS) where I was responsible for data entry and management of patient information. This experience sparked my interest in understanding the intricacies of health data and its potential to inform improved patient outcomes.

Later, I had an opportunity to manage research data for The Biomarker Research on Ethanol Among Those with HIV (BREATH), The Alcohol Drinkers’ Exposure to Preventive Therapy for TB (ADEPTT) and The Drinkers’ Intervention to Prevent Tuberculosis (DIPT) studies. This experience not only deepened my understanding of the research methodologies but also instilled in me a passion for contributing to evidence-based solutions in global health.

My previous experience, skills and interests led me to get an opportunity to work on TRAC study, which aligns perfectly with my desire to explore and learn the intersection of infectious diseases and modifiable risk factors.

Patrick: Before starting to work in the research field, I worked with the Academic Registrar’s department at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), where I worked in the data section, handling student records. During this time, I developed a strong interest in data management and its potential to drive meaningful outcomes. An opportunity arose with the ADEPT study, and I was immediately drawn to it. I realized that contributing to a study that collected data to inform and potentially improve care policies for people living with HIV in our community would be both impactful and fulfilling. This passion for using data to create positive change ultimately opened more opportunities to work on other studies.

Over time, I have worked on various studies that uncovered significant findings, including the correlation between heavy alcohol consumption and compromised health outcomes in affected populations. These experiences deepened my understanding and experience which led me to the TALC study.

What are the most challenging and most rewarding aspects of your job?

Adah: A challenging aspect is ensuring data quality and integrity in data collection and management, particularly in diverse settings with varying data collection tools and protocols. Some rewarding aspects are seeing data translate into actionable insights, knowing our work contributes to improving lives, and collaborating with experts from various disciplines to advance our understanding of HIV, TB, smoking and alcohol consumption. It is also rewarding to mentor other team members, contribute to capacity building in data management, and witness the translation of research findings into policy changes and improved health outcomes.

Patrick: The most challenging aspects of my job is ensuring the accuracy and completeness of data collected from various study sites by different Research Assistants. Sometimes having to deal with inconsistent internet access when trying to sync data and running REDCap setup. However, the most rewarding aspect is knowing that the data I handle directly contributes to evidence-based knowledge and solutions that can improve public health outcomes in the region.

What is your favorite memory from a past study you’ve worked on?

Adah: During one of my past studies, I recall a participant who showed remarkable dedication and creativity. He was scheduled to provide a hair sample, but coincidentally, he had a critical social engagement- wedding which required him to cut off his hair before his scheduled visit.

To meet both commitments, he cleverly cut his hair, leaving a small, untouched patch specifically for us to collect during his next visit.  This gesture not only showcased his resourcefulness but also his willingness and dedication to participate in our research. The incident has stuck with me as a heartwarming reminder of the human side of research. It highlighted the importance of flexibility, understanding, and participant-centered approach in research. Seeing participants go above and beyond to contribute to our studies is truly inspiring.

Patrick: My favorite memorable day for me was when the team went out to celebrate after surpassing our target enrollment numbers for the study (target numbers per month). It was a moment of pride and excitement, knowing that the hard work we had put in had paid off. Even more rewarding was the fact that we stayed above the target for the rest of the study, which was a testament to the dedication and collaboration of everyone involved. That day not only marked a significant achievement but also reinforced the strong sense of teamwork that carried us through to the study’s successful completion.

What excites you about the field of data management?

Adah: Data management excites me because it’s the backbone of informed decision making and evidence based research. It combines technical expertise with real world impact.

Patrick: Managing data from studies involving participants with HIV who drink alcohol is vital in understanding the complex interactions between alcohol, HIV, and other factors like medication adherence, standards of living and other health outcomes and quality of life for these patients.

What additional roles would you hope to take on as a data manager in the future?

Adah: I am interested in exploring leadership roles, mentoring junior data managers, and contributing to the development of the best data management practices.

Patrick: Beyond managing data, I hope to develop my skills in data analysis and visualization to uncover deeper insights from research findings. And hopefully one day, I will be in a more active role in research coordination and collaborating with investigators.

Tell us one thing about yourself that readers might find surprising.

Adah: I have a passion and secret love for flowers! I find the process of nurturing plants and watching them grow and bloom to be incredibly therapeutic and fulfilling. I have a deep appreciation for their beauty and I enjoy learning about their different species.

Patrick: I’m a dedicated Bible scholar and an evangelist of the Word. I’m deeply passionate about sharing the message of the Bible and helping others grow in their faith. In fact, I’m currently enrolled in a Bible college to further deepen my understanding and knowledge.

Any other comments?

Adah: I am grateful for the opportunity to work with the International URBAN ARCH center and contribute to meaningful research. I look forward to continuing to grow and learn in this field.

Patrick: I’d like to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to share my story and aspirations. It’s my hope that my story inspires others to pursue their passions, both professionally and personally. Whether it’s data management, Bible studies, or any other field, I believe that dedication and perseverance can lead to fulfilling accomplishments.