About

Driven by a deep passion for data analytics and molecular biology, my focus lies at the intersection of One Health, agricultural production and evolutionary biology. My expertise spans various molecular biology techniques and omics approaches, including genomics, transcriptomics and metagenomics, allowing me to tackle complex biological challenges and contribute to transformative advancements.

Beyond the lab, I excel in steering projects and programs toward success by designing and implementing strategies that ensure efficiency, effectiveness, and alignment with overarching goals. My enthusiasm for optimizing workflows and promoting collaborative environments enables me to drive projects to successful completion, ultimately making a tangible impact in scientific research and real-world applications.

Academic work and research

As a molecular biologist and bioinformatics specialist in evolutionary and population genetics, I earned my Ph.D. in Biotechnology from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology in Kenya. Throughout my graduate studies, I focused on the evolutionary genomics of livestock to drive agricultural advancements and the conservation of endangered wildlife. My research examined the genetic basis of population diversity, demographic history, and the impacts of genetic drift and gene flow on evolutionary processes in quails. This work was integral to a broader initiative aimed at developing complementary and sustainable protein sources for the developing world populations.

Looking ahead, my passion for population genetics, evolutionary biology, and conservation genetics continues to drive my research. I am particularly interested in applying these insights to plants, indigenous livestock, and wildlife conservation in developing countries. My pursuits include investigating the genetic mechanisms shaping population diversity, demographic histories, and the influences of genetic drift and gene flow on evolution. In addition, I am passionate about utilizing molecular biology and bioinformatics methods to advance genomic surveillance, contributing to the study, monitoring, prevention, and control of animal and zoonotic diseases through a One Health approach. By integrating advanced computational tools and interdisciplinary perspectives, I aim to develop innovative strategies that contribute to global health and sustainable solutions for disease prevention and control. These efforts are particularly focused on addressing emerging and re-emerging pathogens impacting livestock, wildlife, and human health.

Beyond my research, I teach and serve as a reviewer for the Journal of Agriculture, Science, and Technology. My teaching career began as a graduate teaching assistant during my Master’s and Ph.D. studies, and I later became a lecturer responsible for molecular biotechnology classes at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.

Professional work and competencies

• Scientific Research
• Project Coordination and Management
• Capacity Building and Strengthening
• Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning
• Pharmaceutical Education and Marketing

Technical skills

• Linux/Shell scripting
• R programming
• Python programming
• Wet lab and molecular biology techniques (Sample collection and storage, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and cDNA synthesis)
• Scientific writing, presentation, and communication
• Visual communication (Professional photography & videography)

News

Current projects

• Bioinformatics analysis of soil metagenomics data (On-going)