The field of parasitology is dedicated to the study of infectious organisms that disproportionately affect regions of the developing world. Researchers working in these regions play a key role in the global effort to understand the basic biology of parasites and develop new intervention strategies to fight parasitic diseases. As scientists, we recognize the importance of openly sharing ideas and information through meetings and scientific conferences, especially for students, trainees, and early-stage investigators. Unfortunately, international travel is often difficult or impossible for junior investigators from the developing world due to the excessive financial burden such travel entails. We have established the Roland Cooper Award Fund to help mitigate this problem and enable our colleagues from low- and middle-income countries to participate in upcoming research conferences. All donations will be used exclusively to support attendance for students and postdoc investigators from the developing world.Â
Roland Cooper was a dedicated attendee of parasitology meetings for 25 years and was widely recognized as a leader on subjects of pharmacology and genetics as they apply to malaria parasites, both in the laboratory and the field. He worked extensively with colleagues in Uganda and Burkina Faso and enthusiastically supported young researchers in the developing world. This award was created in his name to provide financial support to young investigators who would otherwise not be able to attend international parasitology meetings.
