Philip Downs

Concerned citizen, Idea generator, Parent, Project manager, Scientist, World traveler

I began my public health career in Cote d'Ivoire as a Peace Corps Volunteer ('97-'99), working with community health workers to interupt transmisison of Guinea worm disease. Knowing we can translate disease prevention from an indiviudal to an entire community and ultimately to eliminating diseases from entie countries continues to motivate me. I have the pleasure of working with a global team of experts that are equally passionate about public health, innovation, health equity, epidemiology, and strengthening health systems to eventual see the demise of several neglected tropical diseases. I've been fortunate to learn from some amazing publlic health leaders that have taught me that it always seems impossible until it's done.

I'm passionate about improving the health outcomes of marginalized people by improving access to tools and information that can interupt transmission of disease.

Investing in the elimination of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) to create a ripple effect in society. Not only can it stop vicious cycles of poverty, pain, disability and stigma. It can lead to benefits such as increased productivity, improved school attendance and greater empowerment for women.

Infectious Disease Control and Elimination, Innovation, Public Health, Translating Research into Practice

First time attending conference - ready to embrace it all.

being an unapologetic optimist.