Kali Ameara
Country Representative, Vanuatu; Vanuatu Research Coordinator
Working groups
Background
Kali has over 20 years of experience in the medical and public health sectors, both internationally and within his home country, Vanuatu. His career is marked by a strong emphasis on leadership, management, and analytical skills, particularly in roles that involve coordinating complex national operations. A key moment in his career was his role as the Vanuatu National Inter-Agency COVID-19 Quarantine Coordinator, where he led the nation's response to the pandemic, demonstrating his ability to navigate high-stakes environments and build strategic relationships across sectors.
Kali has over a decade of experience in the private healthcare sector in Brisbane, Australia, and earlier roles in the United Kingdom and New Zealand. His expertise spans molecular genomics, virology, and immunology, underlining his comprehensive background in scientific services and laboratory operations.
His work has not only been foundational in managing public health crises but also in advancing scientific research and operational efficiency within the healthcare sector. Through collaborative efforts, he has impacted public health policies, operational protocols, and safety practices, exemplifying his dedication to improving healthcare outcomes.
Qualifications
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1995: BMLsc, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
Positions
- 2025–current: Country Representative, Vanuatu, Burnet Institute
- 2023–current: Vanuatu Research Coordinator, Burnet Institute
Current projects
View 2 more
Vanuatu Research and Climate Change Agenda
This project will support Vanuatu to develop a research agenda that maximises public health impact and drives health equity.
Triple Elimination Toolkit for Pacific island countries
The Triple Elimination Toolkit project aims to help Pacific island countries meet elimination targets for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B.
Protektem Pikinini Blong Yu: Preventing mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B in Vanuatu
This field trial compares the effectiveness of WHO-based viral load testing guidelines to an alternative model of care.
