Training Opportunities at UNC Project

UNC trainees in Malawi (2009) with Drs. Hosseinipour (left) and van der Horst (center)

UNC Project-Malawi serves as a training site for three large training programs offering year-long fellowships and scholarships to U.S. and international medical students and postdocs.

   Doris Duke International Clinical Research Fellowship

   Fogarty International Clinical Research Scholars and Fellows Program (FICRS/F)

   Fogarty AIDS International Training and Research Program (AITRP).

UNC Project also offers training opportunities for UNC medical students of all levels.

   Global health elective for first-year UNC medical students

   Clinical elective rotation for fourth-year UNC medical students

   Clinical rotation for residents in medicine or med/peds 

Since 2009, UNC Project has sponsored undergraduates in the Morehead-Cain Scholars Program for their summer enrichment experience.  UNC Project is piloting an exchange program for nurses and has also hosted students in public health and geography. 

Studying at UNC Project

Housing

Most trainees live in housing provided by UNC Project.  Conveniently located, the accommodations are an easy walk to Tidziwe Centre and KCH.  The cost is approximately $300 per month, which includes wireless internet access, a kitchen, digital television, a cook and a 24-hour guard. UNC Project also has a vehicle which trainees can share for transport to nearby restaurants and attractions. Student office space is available in Tidziwe Centre.

Health and Safety Issues

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website has comprehensive health information for travelers to Malawi. Malawi is a malaria-endemic country, so trainees will need to take prophylaxis.

The U.S. State Department website has information about personal safety in Malawi. Although petty theft does happen, violent crime is rare.

Living in Malawi

Most people enjoy living in Lilongwe. Its relatively small size makes it amenable to spontaneous meetings with friends, even if they live on the other side of town.  There are numerous sport activities available, including volleyball, the local Hash House Harriers (running group), ultimate Frisbee, soccer and a sailing club. For those who enjoy music, there are several clubs that feature live Malawian music and a cultural center where one can see traditional song and dance performances.  The Sanctuary is a quiet escape in the middle of town. Lilongwe's location in the middle of the country provides easy access Malawi's natural wonders, including Lake Malawi, Mt. Mulanje and Liwonde National Park, among many others.