Dr Michelle Skelton
DS-I Africa Coordinating Center
Dr Michelle Skelton is a successful program manager and leader in the field of genomics and data science in Africa. As the current leader of the H3Africa and DS-I Africa Coordinating Centre's based at the University of Cape Town, she plays a pivotal role in advancing scientific research and collaboration on the continent.
In her role as the Principal Investigator of the H3Africa Administrative Coordinating Centre (H3ACC) and the Harnessing Data Science for Health Discovery and Innovation in Africa (DS-I Africa) Coordinating Centre, Dr Skelton manages a team responsible for supporting these Consortia in various key areas including administration, communications, fiscal management, guidelines and policy development and coordination of meetings and conferences. With the support of core funders such as the NIH/NHGRI/FIC and Wellcome Trust, she has overseen the growth of the consortium to include over 500 individuals and 51 projects.
Dr Skelton's efforts have been instrumental in facilitating scientific exchange, networking, and collaborative brainstorming through in-person Consortium Meetings held in various African countries. She actively engages with stakeholders, government officials, global and grassroots organizations and governance working groups to raise awareness about the importance of scientific research, effective and sensitive data sharing practices towards solving health issues in Africa.
Dr Skelton's dedication to supporting early career scientists and promoting professional development within the scientific community has been a cornerstone of her work. Through fellowship programs, training initiatives, and strategic partnerships, she continues to empower the next generation of scientists to catalyze research findings into tangible solutions that will improve health outcomes for all in Africa and beyond.
