Curriculum Vitae

Research Interest

• Conservation Physiology

• Ecophysiology; 

• Micro/nanoplastic pollution; 

• Emerging contaminant toxicology;

• Biomonitoring of emerging contaminants

• Sustainable aquaculture

Research Output and Highlight

• Microplastic pollution in rivers, saltmarshes, fish and bivalves.

• Pharmaceutical-induced pollution on marine crustaceans.

• Perturbation of the aquatic ecosystem by plastics, heavy metals, sand mining, and oil spills.

• Pelagic and macrobenthic ecology of fresh and brackish water ecosystems.

• Nutritional studies of the African catfishes.

• Peer-reviewed journal articles, one book chapter, one monograph, and conference presentations.

• 320 citations and an h-index of 7 as of 31/09/2025 on Google Scholar.

• 270 citations and a Research Interest Score of 490 on ResearchGate as of 31/09/2025.

• Five years’ experience as a Research Assistant.

Education

• PhD Environmental Biology 30/09/2025 - 31/09/2028

Advisors: Prof. Holly Shiels, Dr Cyrill Bussy and Prof. Ian Kane

• MSc Marine Biological Resources (Erasmus+) 01/09/2022 – 31/08/2024 

Ghent University, Belgium; 26/09/2022 – 30/01/2023

Marche Polytechnic University, Italy; 01/02/2023 – 31/03/2023

University of Gothenburg, Sweden; 17/07/2023 – 30/07/2023

Sorbonne University, France; 11/09/2023 – 15/12/2023

Atlantic Technological University, Ireland; 01/01/2024 – 25/05/2024

Dissertation: Histopathological assessment of blue mussels (Mytilus edulis) in a contaminated saltmarsh and a contrasting good water quality bay. Grade (80%)

Advisors: Drs. Roisin Nash and Joao Frias 

• MSc Pollution and Environmental Control 20/09/2021 – 19/09/2022

The University of Manchester, United Kingdom 

Final GPA: 76.75% [EQF level 7]

Dissertation: Accumulation and distribution of microplastics in point bars, streambed, and surface water of a river in semi-urban Greater Manchester: A case study of River Tame. Grade (81%)

Advisor: Dr. Ian Kane

• B. Fisheries (Fisheries and Aquaculture)       15/10/2011 – 15/03/2017

University of Uyo, Nigeria

Final CGPA = 4.53/5.00 [EQF level 6]

Top 1%, both in the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Environmental Management and the College of Agriculture

Thesis: Growth performance, nutrient utilisation, and cost-effectiveness of African sharptooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus, Burchell 1822) fingerlings fed locally formulated and Skretting diets reared in tarpaulin tanks.

Advisor: Dr Ofonime E. Afia

Review Seminar: The effect of oil pollution on aquatic organisms in the Niger Delta region, Nigeria.

Advisor: Dr Imaobong E. Ekpo

Publications

Please see the Publications tab on the top right of the screen

Research and Professional Experience

1. Doctoral Researcher 30/09/2024 - 30/09/2028

Manchester Environmental Research Institute

Supervisor: Prof. Holly Shiels, Dr. Cyrill Bussy, and Prof. Ian Kane

• Investigating microplastic pollution in freshwater fishes

2. Research Student (Summer School) 17/07/2023 – 29/07/2023

Tjärnö Marine Biological Laboratory, Stromstad, Gothenburg, Sweden

Supervisor: Dr. Tamer Abdelaziz

• Designed and carried out two experiments on calanoid copepods to examine paracetamol pollution in marine environments, resulting in data-driven insights for the health of marine ecosystems.

• Honed my proficiency in water quality testing, microscopy, and chemical analysis to assess bioindicators of copepods and pollutant effects.

• Conducted comprehensive statistical analysis of toxicity data, accurately determining LC50 values using SPSS and R, and contributing to precise risk assessment.

• Co-authored research reports and presentations that effectively communicated complex findings and implications to both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Presented research findings in engaging ways, translating technical data into accessible insights. Also created a documentary movie to communicate our science.

• Worked with a diverse and multicultural team to share insights, design experiments, conduct research, troubleshoot challenges, and contribute to the collective success of the project.

• I overcame unexpected obstacles in gathering and studying samples, demonstrating my ability to adjust to new situations and use my resources effectively.

• Deep understanding of marine ecosystems, copepod behavior, and the ecological impact of pharmaceutical pollution.

• I analysed the data, identified correlations and disparities, and formulated hypotheses to reach evidence-based conclusions.

3. Research Assistant (Internship/Professional Practice) 03/04/2023 – 28/05/2023

National Research Council – Institute of Marine Science (CNR-ISMAR), Lerici, Italy

Supervisor: Dr. Giuseppe Suaria

• Conducted extensive analysis of microfibers in the marine environment, specifically focusing on the fish and surface water.

• Utilised stereomicroscope and FTIR spectroscopy to quantify and qualify microplastics and microfibers, employing their distinct infrared absorption patterns.

• Committed over 150 hours to precise FTIR analysis, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail and dedication to accurate results.

• Successfully identified and matched over 200 microfibers, showcasing material characterization and analysis expertise.

• Contributed to the broader understanding of microfibre pollution in the marine ecosystem through comprehensive research, analysis and report writing and played a crucial role in assessing the impact of microplastics and microfibers on marine life and the environment.

4. Graduate Student Researcher 20/09/2021 – 19/09/2022

Department of Earth and Environmental Management, The University of Manchester, United Kingdom

Supervisor: Dr Ian Kane

• Collected samples from surface water, river bed, and point bar, adhering to established protocols for sample acquisition.

• Employed standard techniques such as flotation, filtration, and density separation to extract microplastics from water and sediment.

• Conducted thorough identification, quantification, categorization, and measurement of microplastics using a Leica stereomicroscope integrated with a digital camera and precise calibration methods.

• Utilized a PerkinElmer Spotlight 400 FTIR spectrometer and irAnalyze/RAMalyze software to investigate the polymer composition of microplastics and determine functional groups by analyzing spectrum peaks.

• Developed proficiency in research methodologies, demonstrated leadership abilities and enhanced organizational skills through active participation in microplastics analysis.

• Gained valuable experience in delivering presentations, effectively communicating findings, and disseminating research outcomes to diverse audiences.

5. Research Assistant   01/10/2016 – 01/09/2021 

Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Environmental Management, University of Uyo, Nigeria

Advisors: Dr. Ofonmbuk Obot, Dr. Ofonime Afia and Dr. Imaobong Ekpo

• Assisted in the design, investigation, and data collection for over 15 academic research projects.

• Conducted statistical analyses for more than 15 academic research studies, encompassing areas such as fish nutrition, fisheries management, aquatic toxicology, fish diversity and abundance, food and feeding habits, etc. Utilized statistical methods including One-Way ANOVA, Factorial ANOVA, Regression and Correlation Analysis, Probit Analysis, Diversity Indices, and Cluster Analysis (e.g., CCA and PCA).

• Sourced relevant literature to support the preparation of over 15 manuscripts.

• Prepared original research and review papers, taking responsibility for both the initial draft and final editing stages, aimed for publication in scientific journals and conference presentations.

• Provided field support for Environmental Impact Assessment Projects under the supervision of Dr. Ofonmbuk Obot. This involved analyzing surface water samples for various water quality parameters, identifying and classifying plankton and macrobenthos, and offering writing support for the preparation of 3 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports.

• Offered technical assistance for breeding exercises and aquafeed formulation and production, working alongside Dr. Ofonime Afia.

• Collaborated with other academics in the Department to facilitate research in the specialized areas of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Environmental Management.

6. Graduate Assistant Intern         01/08/2018 – 31/03/2021

Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Environmental Management, University of Uyo, Nigeria

• Demonstrated effective invigilation, marking, and grading of more than 1000 undergraduate exams and test scripts for the Department.

• Actively supervised over ten practical sessions for undergraduate students.

• Contributed to the successful completion of three training workshops and 12 presentation seminars organized by the Department.

• Mentored and coached a diverse group of over 35 undergraduate students across all academic levels, providing guidance in research planning and project execution.

• Represented the Head of the Department at students' association meetings and congresses, ensuring their voices and concerns were effectively communicated.

• Performed secretarial duties, including accurately recording minutes at meetings and proficiently handling correspondence and memos.

• Carried out various clerical responsibilities, such as filing, binding, scanning, and proficiently managing the dispatch and receipt of memos, letters, and forms.

7. Graduate Field Assistant   01/11/2016 – 21/07/2017

Prime Mega Excellent Consults Ltd, Uyo, Nigeria

• Assisted in the successful execution of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) by performing various crucial tasks.

• Collected data and samples during fieldwork, ensuring accurate and comprehensive information for the assessment process.

• Conducted water quality testing, employing appropriate methods and techniques to evaluate the environmental impact on aquatic systems.

• Identified specimens, demonstrating expertise in species recognition and contributing to assessing potential ecological effects.

• Prepared sections of the EIA reports, actively participating in the documentation and analysis of environmental data.

8. Undergraduate Research Assistant 01/03/2016 – 30/09/2016

Dr. Afia’s Lab, University of Uyo, Nigeria

• Research work: Growth performance, nutrient utilization and cost-effectiveness of African sharptooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus, Burchell 1822) fingerlings fed locally formulated and skretting pelleted diets reared in tarpaulin tanks

• Designed and conducted an empirical study investigating the growth of catfish fed on both commercial and locally formulated diets.

• Formulated and produced sinking pellets for catfish using locally available raw materials, contributing to the development of sustainable aquafeed options.

• Conducted extensive research on the nutritional performance of African catfish, reviewing pertinent literature to inform the study.

• Collected and analyzed multiple growth response and nutrient utilization parameters to assess the impact of different diets on catfish growth.

• Engaged in exploring and assessing potential disparities in growth response among catfish when nourished with locally developed diets versus commercially available alternatives, augmenting the knowledge base surrounding optimal feeding methodologies.

• Presented a research paper on the nutritional requirements of African catfish and its implications for semi-intensive aquaculture, disseminating valuable insights to the scientific community.

Teaching Experience

1. Training Facilitator 01/02/2020 – 31/03/2021 

Prime Mega Excellent Consults Ltd, Uyo, Nigeria

• Tutoring on computer appreciation and Microsoft Office packages

• Tutoring on software installation

• Tutoring on special packages, including SPSS, XLStat, etc.

• Mentorship to clients and students

2. Academic Tutor           01/04/2012 – 31/10/2016

Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Environmental Management, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Uyo

• Voluntarily provided academic support and mentorship to classmates and junior colleagues within the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Environmental Management, demonstrating a strong commitment to academic excellence and fostering a collaborative learning environment.

• Taught several modules, delivering engaging and informative sessions that helped enhance fellow students' understanding and mastery of course material.

• Demonstrated excellent communication and instructional skills, effectively conveying complex concepts and adapting teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles.

• Developed comprehensive lesson plans and teaching materials, incorporating interactive activities and practical examples to facilitate effective knowledge transfer and application.

• Created a supportive and inclusive learning environment, encouraging student participation, addressing questions and concerns, and providing individualized guidance to facilitate academic growth and success.

• Leveraged subject matter expertise and personal experiences to provide valuable insights and real-world perspectives, enhancing the overall learning experience for junior colleagues.

• Demonstrated strong leadership and organizational skills in effectively managing tutoring sessions, coordinating schedules, and maintaining open lines of communication with classmates and junior colleagues.

• Contributed to the academic development and success of fellow classmates and students, empowering them to achieve their academic goals and excel in their studies within the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Environmental Management.

Scholarships, Honours, Grants and Awards (selected)

• Certificate of Achievement, awarded for 2nd Place Talk (Afternoon Oral Session) at the Doctoral Academy Graduate Society Showcase [2025].

• Stephen and Ruth Wainwright Endowed Fellowship to attend a Fish Swimming course (FHL 528) at Friday Harbor Laboratories, University of Washington, USA [2025].

• Fisheries Society of the British Isles (FSBI) Travel Grant 2025 to attend a Fish Swimming course (FHL 528) at Friday Harbor Laboratories, University of Washington, USA [2025].

• The Company of Biologists Travel Grant, in association with the Society for Experimental Biology (SEB), to attend a Fish Swimming course (FHL 528) at Friday Harbor Laboratories, University of Washington, USA [2025].

• The PDS Conference Travel Fund 2025 to attend and present at the Biologists@100 conference in Liverpool, between March 24th and 27th, 2025 [2025]

• President’s Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Award at the University of Manchester [2024].

• Erasmus Mundus Scholarship tenable at Ghent University and partner institutions for MSc in Marine Biological Resources [2022].

• Commonwealth Masters Scholarship tenable at the University of Manchester for MSc in Pollution and Environmental Control [2021].

• Award of honour in recognition of my immense contribution towards the growth and development of the Fisheries and Aquatic Environmental Management Students' Association (FAEMSA), University of Uyo Chapter [2019].

• Award of honour as the Pioneer First Class graduate, Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Environmental Management. Awarded by FAEMSA, University of Uyo Chapter [2019].

• Certificate of Award as Best Graduating Student, Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Environmental Management, the University of Uyo, for the 2015/2016 Academic Year. Awarded by FEAMSA, University of Uyo Chapter [2019].

• Faculty Prize for Best Graduating Student, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Uyo, Nigeria for 2015/2016 Academic Year. Awarded at the University of Uyo 24th Convocation ceremony [2018].

Volunteer and Leadership Experience

1. Volunteer     Nov. 2021-Sept 2022

WAAW Foundation - waawfoundation.org 

• Hosted impactful webinars on STEM education and shaping the future by inspiring, empowering, and equipping the next generation of thinkers and doers. 

• Other volunteering activities in line with WAAW’s objectives. 

2. The University of Manchester Rep for 2021-2022     Nov. 2021-Sept 2022

Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), United Kingdom

• Cultivated connections and facilitated collaborative initiatives among Commonwealth scholars at The University of Manchester, United Kingdom, fostering a vibrant and supportive community.

• Played a key role in organizing three regional events for the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in collaboration with the regional head, successfully bringing together scholars for valuable networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities.

• Demonstrated exceptional leadership as the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) football team captain, leading the team to a historic victory over the Chevening football team after a decade-long drought.

3. Research Director               March 2020 – present

Aquaworld - aquaworld.org.ng

• Provide oversight for the research and development unit of the team, encompassing tasks such as coordinating the preparation of articles and proposals and executing research plans to drive knowledge advancement.

• Formulate strategies and establish research objectives, actively contributing to the planning and execution of virtual programs and training initiatives in collaboration with partners and stakeholders.

4. Time-out Member         July 2020 – present

Aquaworld - aquaworld.org.ng

• Actively contribute articles and engage in tweet chats on the topic of aquatic environmental pollution on aquaworld.org.ng, sharing insights and knowledge on critical issues. An example of my contribution can be found at: https://aquaworld.org.ng/ghost-fishing-ecological-and-economic-impacts-and-the-way-forward/

• Host a series of impactful webinars, leading discussions and sharing strategies to combat marine pollution, raising awareness and fostering collaborative efforts for a healthier marine ecosystem.

5. President           Nov. 2017 – May 2018

Environmental Protection Community Development Service Group, Ohaozara, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

• Demonstrated effective leadership by spearheading seven impactful sensitization programs in secondary schools, markets, and hospitals to raise awareness and promote behavioral changes to reduce environmental pollution. Topics covered included plastic waste, oil spills, responsible fertilizer application, and proper sewage disposal.

• Successfully organized a fundraising campaign with the purpose of acquiring and strategically placing 20 plastic bins in Ohaozara Local Government Council, encouraging and facilitating effective waste disposal practices in the community.

5. President May 2016 – Jan 2017

Fisheries and Aquatic Environmental Management Students' Association, University of Uyo Chapter

• Demonstrated exceptional leadership as President of the Students Association, overseeing a team of more than 20 students in various initiatives to promote awareness and education in Fisheries Science.

• Led and organized educational outreach programs in selected secondary schools, personally spearheading presentations and workshops to enhance students' understanding of Fisheries Science and its importance in sustainable marine resource management.

• Orchestrated three highly successful excursion exercises to fish farms in Akwa Ibom State, providing students with valuable hands-on learning experiences and fostering a deeper appreciation for practical aspects of the course.

• Collaborated with faculty members and industry professionals to develop engaging and informative sessions during the excursions, ensuring students gained practical insights into fish farming practices, techniques, and challenges.

• Through effective coordination and teamwork, inspired and motivated the student body to actively participate in these initiatives, fostering a sense of enthusiasm and camaraderie within the Association.

• Established strong partnerships with local fish farmers, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders to facilitate educational opportunities and promote the exchange of knowledge and experiences through short internships.

• Successfully managed administrative responsibilities, including budget planning, logistics coordination, and effective communication with members, faculty, and external stakeholders.

6. Secretary               April 2015–April 2016 

Fisheries and Aquatic Environmental Management Students' Association, University of Uyo Chapter

• Skillfully executed all secretarial responsibilities and efficiently fulfilled assigned duties as directed by the President, ensuring smooth and organized operation of the association.

• Demonstrated exceptional organizational and administrative skills in managing official correspondence, maintaining accurate records, and coordinating communication within the association.

• Played a vital role in supporting the President and the executive team in planning and executing association activities, including meetings, events, and educational outreach programs.

• Acted as the representative of the association and effectively communicated the President's vision and decisions in his absence, ensuring continuity and efficient decision-making processes.

• Collaborated closely with the President and other executive members to develop meeting agendas, record minutes, and disseminate relevant information to members, promoting transparency and accountability within the association.

• Demonstrated strong interpersonal and communication skills in interacting with members, academic and non-academic staff, and external stakeholders, fostering positive relationships and promoting a supportive and inclusive environment.

• Successfully managed administrative tasks, including maintaining membership records, organizing files, and handling logistical arrangements for association activities and events.

• Showcased professionalism and integrity in maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information, ensuring the highest level of trust and respect within the association.

7. Assistant Class Representative Jan. 2012 – Oct. 2016

Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Environmental Management, University of Uyo, Nigeria

• Collaborated closely with the lead Class Representative to facilitate effective communication and coordination between students and course lecturers, ensuring smooth scheduling and delivery of lectures.

• Actively engaged with course lecturers to determine suitable lecture timings, taking into consideration the availability and preferences of both students and lecturers.

• Together with the Class Representative, assisted in organizing meetings with course lecturers, fostering positive relationships and promoting constructive dialogue to address academic matters and student concerns.

• Demonstrated strong organizational skills by serving as the custodian of lecturers' tutorial materials and textbooks, ensuring their safekeeping and availability for students when needed.

• Maintained accurate records and documentation of borrowed tutorial materials, facilitating efficient tracking and timely return of resources to lecturers.

• Acted as a liaison between students and lecturers, relaying important information, announcements, and updates to the class, ensuring effective communication flow and reducing potential information gaps.

• Demonstrated responsibility and professionalism in fulfilling the duties assigned by the Class Representative, actively contributing to the smooth operation and overall success of the class.

• Played a crucial role in fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment by actively engaging with classmates, addressing their concerns, and advocating for their academic needs.

Community Service/Invited Talks

• Host – A future for sharks in the global south 2025

Aquaworld Ocean Leadership Series 23.0

• Speaker – A guide to Erasmus Mundus Scholarships 2024

ScholarChitChat (Episode 18)

• Host – Plastic pollution: Beyond waste management 2023

    WAAW Foundation 

• Host – Winning an international scholarship as a young person from a developing country 2023

WAAW Foundation 

• Host – Marine spatial planning: Budgeting the limited resources 2023

Aquaworld Monthly Virtual Seminar

• Speaker - Scholarship made easy 2023

Legislative Mentorship Initiative 

• Speaker – leveraging international opportunities for enhancing your career in agriculture 2021

Elite Farming Initiative Webinar Series 3 (Zoom)

• Speaker – Plastic production: An invention gone wrong 2021

Aquaworld Tweet Chats - https//bit.ly/aquaworldtweetchat2

• Speaker - how to successfully start a homestead and small-scale aquaculture venture 2020

Akwa Ibom State Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC), 90.5 FM, Uyo, Nigeria

• Speaker – career opportunities for graduates in fisheries, aquaculture, and aquatic sciences 2020

Fisheries and Aquatic Environmental Management Students' Association Week, University of Uyo

Skills and Competences

• Microplastic quantification and polymer analysis

• Histological examination

• Microtomy and tissue processing

• Scientific communication 

• EIA report writing

• Identification and quantification of macrofauna, meiofauna, microfauna, and plankton.

• Water quality assessment

• Quantification of total organic matter and protein concentration 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite - Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

• Proficiency in Google Suite - docs, sheets, forms, and slides.

• Data analysis such as ANOVA, Ecological Indices, and Multivariate Analysis using SPSS, R, MS Excel, XLStat, and PAST.

• Web development and design (HTML, CSS).

• QGIS

• R Programming

• FTIR Spectroscopy

• Quantification and qualification of microplastics and microfibres

• Neutral Red Retention Time (NRRT) Assay 

• Toxicity assays - probit studies

Scientific trainings attended (selected)

• Confident Scientific Presentations 2025

Society for Experimental Biology

• Fish Swimming Training Course (FHL 528) 2025

Friday Harbor Laboratories, University of Washington

• Literature Review with Litmaps and Paperpal 2024

Litmaps and Paperpal

• Home Office Licence Training Core Regulatory Course 2024/25 2024

University of Manchester Biological Service Facility (BSF) and UK Home Office

Further learning and MOOCs (selected)

• Leadership Masterclass (Lead Forward: Leadership Lessons for Sustainable Impact) 2024

More Leadership Academy

• Understanding Development Impact 2022

Commonwealth Scholarship Commission and FutureLearn

• Large Marine Ecosystems: Assessment and Management 2022

University of Cape Town, NOAA, UNEP, UNESCO-IOC, UNDP, Global Environment Facility and Coursera

• Introduction to sustainability 2022

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Coursera 

• Water Resources Management and Policy 2022

University of Geneva and Coursera 

• Achieving Sustainable Development Goals on Water and Sanitation 2021

Asian Development Bank Institute

• Ecology: Ecosystem Dynamics and Conservation 2021

American Museum of Natural History, Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Coursera

• The Effect of Aquatic Pollutants on the Aquatic Environment 2021

The Open University

• Effective presentation skills 2021

Metropolitan School of Business and Management

• Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation in Fisheries and Aquaculture 2020

Food and Agriculture Organization

• Environmental Impact Assessment 2019

Prime Services and Institutes

Professional membership

• Member, Society for Experimental Biology               2025-present

• Member, Institute of Fisheries Management             2025-present

• Member, Fisheries Society of the British Isles               2024-present

• Member, British Ecological Society               2021-present

• Member, Freshwater Biological Association of Nigeria               2021-present

• Member, Energy Institute               2021-present

• Member, Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management               2021-present

• Member, Asian Council of Science Editors               2021-present

• Member, Commonwealth Youth Climate Change Network Nigeria               2021-present