About Place Alert Labs
Who We Are
Based at Midlands State University, Place Alert Labs (PALs) is an African-led environment-health research laboratory at the forefront of a critical intersection: where human health and environment meet. We utilize advanced Geographical Information Science (GISc) to transform complex spatial and health data into actionable insights that guide policy, empower communities, and protect public health in Africa's toughest health and climate challenges.
Our approach is grounded in collaboration, co-design/creation with communities, policymakers, and institutions to ensure our work is relevant, inclusive, and drives real-world impact. We are dedicated to cultivating the next generation of African leaders through education and mentorship, ensuring a sustainable legacy of health and resilience.
Vision Statement
Healthier and more resilient communities in Africa, where evidence-driven geospatial research and innovation guide equitable health policy and targeted health interventions.
Mission Statement
We use geospatial science to uncover environment–health links in data-scarce regions, building capacity to create decision-support tools and insights that improve health, inform policy, and empower communities.
Strategic Pillars
01Interdisciplinary environment-health research
02Innovation and Commercialization
03Policy Engagement and Translation
04Community Partnerships and Inclusion
05Education, Training, and Leadership Development
Values
01
Research Excellence
We uphold the highest standards of research quality, rigor, and ethics.
02
Innovation
We embrace creativity, novel technologies, and forward-thinking approaches to address emerging Geohealth challenges.
03
Equity and Inclusion
We champion diversity, fairness, and meaningful participation of all groups, especially underrepresented and vulnerable populations.
04
Teamwork and Integrity
We foster a supportive and collaborative environment where collective efforts lead to greater impact, acting with honesty, fairness, and consistency in all research and engagements.
Principles
01
Transparency and Accountability
We maintain openness in our processes, share our findings responsibly, and hold ourselves answerable to our stakeholders.
02
Capacity Building
We are committed to strengthening human and institutional capabilities in environment-health across Africa.
03
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
We bring together diverse expertise across health, environment and policy to deliver integrated solutions.
