A Boost for Demographic Research: UNIMA Lecturer Secures Max Planck Research Grant
Lecturers from various departments at the University of Malawi continue to receive prestigious awards in recognition of the excellence they demonstrate in their research. Notably, Dr. Benson Malinga John, a lecturer in the Department of Sociology and Population Studies, has been awarded a €100,000 grant by the Max Planck Society to establish a Max Planck Partner Group at the University of Malawi. This initiative aims to foster collaborative research between the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research (MPIDR) in Germany and the University of Malawi, with a focus on Family Research and Population Analysis for Development (FRePAD). This marks the first time an African institution has hosted an MPIDR partner group, representing a significant milestone in demographic research on the continent.
The Max Planck Society (Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, MPG) is one of the world’s leading scientific research organizations, based in Germany. Founded in 1948 as the successor to the Kaiser Wilhelm Society, it is named after physicist Max Planck, who developed the theory of quantum mechanics. The society conducts fundamental research in the natural sciences, life sciences, social sciences, and humanities, collaborating closely with universities, research centers, and industries worldwide. It operates over 80 Max Planck Institutes (MPIs) across Germany and internationally, each focusing on specialized fields.
“I was selected for this grant in recognition of my exemplary scientific work, which has already garnered international recognition,” Dr. John stated. His research has been published in highly prestigious demography journals, including Demography, Population Studies, Population and Development Review, and Population Research and Policy Review. He will continue on this successful path as Head of the Max Planck Partner Group.
He believes that the grant will foster collaborative research between MPIDR and the University of Malawi. Furthermore, it will strengthen the capacity for demographic research within the department.
Dr. Benson Malinga John is also an editorial board member of the prestigious Population Research and Policy Review journal and a committee member of the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population’s Panel on COVID-19, Fertility, and Family.
