Researchers & Students

PhD researchers

Eugine Lusanji

Eugine Lusanji is a PhD Fellow at the University of Nairobi and researcher in the AMELIORATE project, where he focuses on the human health component of the project within a One Health framework. His research explores heavy metal exposure, biomarkers of toxic effects, and zoonotic antimicrobial-resistant bacteria among communities living near dumpsites, generating evidence that can strengthen AMR surveillance, antimicrobial stewardship, and environmental health strategies in low- and middle-income settings. Through this work, he contributes to advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3 — ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all, a global priority championed by the United Nations.

Nathan Langat

Nathan Langat is a PhD student at the University of Nairobi, affiliated with the Veterinary Sciences Research Institute (VSRI), KALRO, where he focuses on antimicrobial resistance surveillance and vaccine development in animals. He leads the AMELIORATE animal health component, investigating the exposure of dumpsite-frequenting animals to heavy metals and zoonotic antimicrobial-resistant bacteria across selected sites in Kenya. His work contributes to the project's broader One Health goal of understanding how animals at dumpsites may link environmental hazards to surrounding human communities.

Dr Njeri Mathenge

Dr Njeri Mathenge is a PhD Fellow on the AMELIORATE Project, currently pursuing a doctorate in Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Nairobi. With a background in environmental science and veterinary medicine, her research applies a One Health approach to investigate environmental pathways facilitating the spread of heavy metals and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes from open dumpsites in Kenya, with implications for both human and animal health. 

MSC Students

Ardelene Diana

Ardelene Diana is a Master’s student at the University of Nairobi, a veterinarian, and a researcher in the AMELIORATE project. Her work focuses on identifying human, animal, and environmental exposure pathways to heavy metals and zoonotic bacteria from selected dumpsites in Kenya within a One Health framework. Her research provides critical insights into how these pathways create health risks for humans and animals through the environment.

Christopher Junior Otieno

Christopher Junior Otieno is a veterinary surgeon and Master’s student in Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Nairobi. His research within the AMELIORATE Project focuses on heavy metal contamination and antimicrobial resistance exposure in dumpsite environments in Kenya, applying a One Health approach. He integrates zoonotic bacterial analysis, heavy metal quantification, and environmental exposure assessment to generate evidence that informs public health policy and promotes safer waste management.