Head, Pwani University Biosciences Research Centre (PUBReC), Kilifi, Kenya
Youtube Interview link: Interview with Dr. Sammy Wambua
Sammy Wambua is a conservation genomics researcher and Head of the Pwani University Biosciences Research Centre (PUBReC) in Kilifi, Kenya. He leads the Wildlife Genomics Lab, using metagenomics (eDNA) and population genomics to study tropical species of conservation concern—from corals and sea turtles to fish, bees, snakes, elephants, and primates. He is also the founding chair of the Research & Conservation Support Society (RECOURSE), a reader society that provides technical, logistical, and administrative support to scientists and conservation practitioners.
Sammy is passionate about mentoring students and building local capacity. He designs and teaches hands-on courses, supervises early-career researchers, and partners across and outside Africa to equip teams with the skills, tools, and collaborative habits that make science work in real-world settings.