Team Bio

The team also comprises Dr. Sammy Wambua and Dr. Ewout Knoester. Dr. Wambua is a researcher in wildlife genomics, which makes him quite relevant to this project on the genetic analytical component. Dr. Knoester is an ecologist, with years of experience in coral restoration. He will help in implementing strategies for the restoration of degraded coral reefs. He will also provide access to important ecological insights and practical knowledge relevant to the project.

Rodney Askolyo Omukuti

I have a great passion for biology, more particularly in the fields of Zoology and conservation. My academic background in Biology with emphasis on Zoology has served me a very strong platform in understanding animal biology and ecosystems. Knowing that the traditional means of conservation are poorly applied, I developed deep interest in bridging this gap between conservation biology and conservation genomics. I find myself attracted to the transformation role that can be played by conservation genomics. I believe that molecular biology and bioinformatics can provide insights into genotype diversity, adaptation, and resilience – very important attributes for long-term survival – of endangered species.

My current research focuses on corals, which are extremely critical to marine ecosystems and increasingly under threat from human activities and climate change. Employing state-of-the-art DNA sequencing technologies like RADseq, my work aims to quantify coral variety and variability while pinpointing the genetic markers for bleaching resistance and thermotolerance. This work will be inordinately useful in developing effective restoration strategies that ensure genetic diversity and elevate adaptability in coral populations.

I am dedicated to biodiversity conservation, and I believe that genetic diversity is a determinant factor for adaptability and survival of species. I want to equip myself with genomic innovations to facilitate informed and impactful science in restoring conservation practices. In entering conservation genomics, my journey is led by a dedication to making a tangible difference in saving endangered species. Coupled with my passion for conservation, my expertise in molecular biology and bioinformatics places me at the forefront of efforts to safeguard biodiversity on our planet. In so doing, this work can significantly contribute to conservation genomics efforts that guarantee the survival and resilience of vital species in our ecosystem.

Sammy Wambua

I have employed molecular biology in biomedical research for over 20 years. I have recently switched to utilizing genomics to explore and protect tropical species of conservation concern. Ongoing research includes population genomics for East African corals, sea cucumber and cichlids, immunogenetics of sea turtles, and microbiome analysis of corals, seagrass, and mangroves.

Ewout Knoester

Performing research for Wageningen University in collaboration with the REEFolution Foundation in Kenya on how to improve the efficiency of coral reef restoration, with a focus on 1) Improving restoration efficiency by integrating ecological processes, 2) Making restoration future proof by exploring heat resilience of restored corals and 3) Enabling upscaling of restoration efforts by improving the cost-efficiency of applied techniques.