In the third of our EMCR Spotlight posts, we hear from Adnan Zaib, Centre for IMPACT Bursary recipient from the EMPOWER-D project, Khyber Medical University.
Tell us about yourself!
My name is Adnan Zaib, and I am a Centre for IMPACT Bursary recipient working as a Data Management member under Centre for IMPACT (C4I). I contribute across multiple themes in the EMPOWER-D project, including Adaptation, Assessment, Intervention, and Process Evaluation. My role focuses on end-to-end data management, including data cleaning, validation, analysis, and transforming data into decision-driven outputs. I work with Excel, R, and Python to support research and program implementation.
How did you end up in this field? Was there a specific moment or interest that led you to the Centre?
I developed an interest in this field through my involvement in community-based research and health intervention projects, where I realized how important data is for improving programs and outcomes. Working on Centre for IMPACT projects has given me the opportunity to engage more deeply with research activities and strengthen my skills across different stages of the research process. This experience has increased my interest in using data to support evidence-based decision-making and improve public health outcomes.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day involves working across multiple datasets from different phases of the project. I coordinate with field teams and supervisors to ensure accurate data collection through digital tools such as Open Data Kit (ODK). I regularly review submitted data, identify and communicate any errors or inconsistencies to the field teams, and guide them in making the necessary corrections. I also support team members in resolving challenges they face during data entry and while using ODK in the field.
What has been your favorite moment or biggest “win” within the project so far?
One of my biggest wins has been improving the quality, consistency, and structure of data across multiple themes within the Centre for IMPACT project. It has been especially rewarding to see how well-managed data can directly support better decision-making and program implementation. Being a recipient of the Centre for IMPACT Bursary Fellowship Award is another significant achievement for me, and I believe it will further strengthen my skills in data management and analysis, enabling me to contribute more meaningfully to research and data-driven work.
What are you most excited about working on in the coming year?
I am most excited about further developing my skills in data science tools such as R, Python, and Excel, and applying them more effectively across the EMPOWER-D project. I also look forward to contributing to more advanced analytics and strengthening data-driven decision-making processes within the Centre for IMPACT research activities.
What do you do to switch off when you aren’t doing research?
Outside of work, I take time to relax away from data and screens, spend time with family and friends, and focus on personal learning. I also enjoy exploring new tools and improving my technical skills in a self-paced and practical way.
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