Grant: Fellowship: Canada Impact+ Research Training Awards - Postdoctoral

"This research aims to bridge the gap between global reproductive health innovation and frontline primary health care delivery. Drawing on my experience as a Registered Midwife and former Technical Officer with the World Health Organization, I propose to examine how emerging contraceptive biotechnologies such as selective progesterone receptor modulators (e.g., Ulipristal acetate) and other biomedical contraceptive innovations can be effectively integrated into primary health care systems. Rather than focusing solely on product efficacy, this research situates biotechnology within the realities of health system implementation. Using implementation science frameworks, the project will assess system readiness, regulatory alignment, workforce capacity, and service delivery infrastructure to identify structural and programmatic determinants influencing the uptake and scale-up of contraceptive technologies in sub-Saharan Africa. Particular attention will be given to the role of the nursing and midwifery workforce as key actors in translating biomedical innovation into accessible, community-based care. By positioning primary health care as the platform through which reproductive biotechnologies are delivered equitably, this work advances scalable models for strengthening Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and reducing disparities in access to reproductive health services. Ultimately, the research ensures that advances in biotechnology are not confined to policy or laboratory settings but are embedded within responsive, sustainable primary care systems serving women and adolescents. "