Salome Chemutai

My name is Salome Chemutai, and I am a second-year master's student in Microbiology at Pwani University in Kenya. I also work as a research assistant at the Pwani University Bioscience Research Centre, where I work on conservation genomics projects involving sea turtles, elephants, monkeys, and corals. In addition to my research, I am a trained Biology teacher and occasionally assist in teaching genetics courses to undergraduate students as a way of mentoring young aspiring scientists. My passion for nature conservation, combined with the guidance of my supervisor, the principal investigator at the research center, has deeply influenced my interest in this field. I am particularly interested in conservation biology, marine microbiology, and population genetics. This fascination began during my volunteer work as a research assistant, where I observed the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and the vital role of microorganisms in maintaining coral health. The urgent need to address the global decline of coral reefs resonates strongly with me. I believe that preserving these ecosystems is crucial for the biodiversity and health of our oceans. Currently, I am involved in a project focusing on the symbiomes of corals under restoration in the Southern Coast of Kenya. My commitment to conservation has led me to apply for this grant to implement a project aimed at identifying microbial indicators of coral health. By developing a rapid and efficient method for coral monitoring, my goal is to enable immediate responses to threats such as bleaching, helping to preserve these vital ecosystems before irreversible damage occurs. My dedication to this work is driven by a desire to contribute to sustainable solutions that can protect and restore coral reefs for future generations.

June 2024