About

I study the ecology and conservation of African wild dogs, focusing on their ecological patterns, threats to their survival, and the development of effective conservation strategies. My work integrates field-based research, applied science, and community-led initiatives, with a particular emphasis on disease dynamics at the human-wildlife interface and mitigating threats to endangered species.

10+

Years Experience

PhD

Completed 2025

Post-Doc

Smithsonian

Academic & Professional Journey

My research career began in Kenya’s diverse ecosystems, where I earned a First-Class Honours BSc in Natural Resources Management from Karatina University. Driven by a passion for wildlife conservation, I went on to complete an MSc in Wildlife Management, focusing my thesis on disease dynamics between domestic dogs and wildlife in rural communities. In 2025, I completed a PhD in Ecology at the University of Wyoming and the Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, with my dissertation examining how climate warming and community outreach influence the ecology and conservation of African wild dogs. I am currently a Postdoctoral Fellow with the Smithsonian Institution and Mpala Research Centre, working to advance our understanding of disease dynamics in African wild dogs and improve strategies for their conservation.

Research Interests and Motivation

My research focuses on wildlife ecology and conservation, with a particular emphasis on carnivore ecology, disease dynamics at the human-wildlife interface, and the impacts of climate change on wildlife populations.

I am driven by the urgent need to develop evidence-based conservation strategies that safeguard biodiversity while supporting sustainable human development across East Africa's rapidly changing landscapes.

Personal Note

What excites me most about conservation science is seeing research directly translate into real-world impact. It's deeply rewarding when scientific findings lead to effective conservation actions that benefit both wildlife and local communities.

I believe that tackling today's complex environmental challenges requires collaborative, interdisciplinary approaches—and I'm committed to fostering such partnerships throughout my work.

Research in Action

Collaring wild dogs
Collaring Wild Dogs for Tracking
Tracking wild dogs
Tracking Wild Dogs
Rabies Vaccination
Laikipia Rabies Vaccination Campaign
Community Outreach
Community Outreach