Jonathan Odingo
Degree in Progress:
PhD in Epidemiology
Hometown:
Kitengela, Kenya
Favorite Color:
White
Favorite Movie/Musical Singer or Group:
My favorite movie to date is the Pursuit of Happiness and musical artist is a versatile South African musician called Kelvin Momo (Give him a listen if you can 😊)
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I enjoy travel, outdoor bonding activities, and playing drums with my band.
Research Focus:
Cancer Epidemiology: As a newcomer to the program, I am particularly interested in cancer research focused on vulnerable and underserved populations. I am also keen on implementation science, with a secondary goal of designing cancer-specific health interventions and evaluating their impact in low-resource settings.
What inspired your interest in pursuing your degree?
With my field experience, I have seen high rates of morbidity, mortality, and pervasive inequity across many African countries. Despite the presence of various interventions, major gaps in healthcare remain, highlighting the urgent need for professionals to help establish a new public health framework in the region. My interest in pursuing this degree is driven by the belief that it will equip me with the best practices and concepts needed to improve and design studies that lead to ‘real’ change in policy and practice.
Why did you choose to study at MSU?
My greatest motivation for applying to this program was the presence of highly accomplished faculty researchers. I was particularly drawn to Dr. Kelly Hirko’s work and her community-based research in Traverse City. While many studies on cancer exist, I was impressed by the focus on community engagement and the importance of health research in settings where disparities are often high. For my PhD, I applied exclusively to MSU—it was truly an all-or-nothing decision for me.
What are your future plans?
Throughout my academic journey, I aim to seek unique opportunities to expand my knowledge by collaborating and perhaps working with both state and federal health organizations. My ultimate goal thereafter, is to work in advisory positions within international non-governmental organizations, where I can design large-scale health interventions across sub-Saharan Africa and strengthen health research in the region.