About zoology
Established in 1992 under Professor E.N. Waindi, this was among the first departments to be started in Maseno University. Its initial focus was to train students in the Bachelor of Science program but over the years the department has distinguished itself as an center of postgraduate (Masters and PhD )training and research in fields such as: Cell and Molecular Biology; Applied Parasitology and Vector Biology; Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology; Applied Entomology; and Aquatic Sciences . While maintaining this excellent tradition, the department has also continued to offer service courses to students from the Schools of Agriculture, Education, Environmental Science and Medicine.
The training is conducted by a team of experienced experts in different areas of Zoology, who take students through an exciting tour of the animal world: the structure (biomolecules and cells), organization and function, behavior, habitats and evolutionary processes that drive animal diversity and interactions in the ecosystem. Students interested in wildlife management and conservation will be particularly be fascinated with the variety of courses that emphasize the rich terrestrial and marine fauna of Kenya.
The department boasts of a well-equipped molecular biology laboratory for DNA and RNA based studies. This is besides the infrastructure for conducting studies related to microbiology, immunology, physiology, ecology, and vector and parasite biology. This, in addition to the serene setting of the University, provide faculty and trainees with opportunities to research on diverse array of topics in zoology, ranging from primate ecology, medical and agricultural entomology, Aquatic Ecology, genetics and molecular biology of infectious and zoonotic disease agents in Western Kenya. Such research activities are funded through grants awarded to members of Academic staff from National Research Fund (NRF), Welcome trust, TWAS, as well as local and international organizations. The department continues to seek and forge collaboration with external partners to broaden opportunities available for student and staff experiences.
Mr Job Pira attending to mice at the departmental animal house.
Students going through a field practical
Our graduates have been employed in research organizations and government bodies, including: Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), International center for Research in Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE), Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), the Kenyan Civil Service and academic institutions.
Mission
To foster and develop in depth Knowledge in Zoology
Vision
To be a center of excellence in training and research in Zoology
Core values
Excellence
Integrity, transparency and accountability
Provide equal opportunity to all qualified persons
Quality objectives
- To train professionals in the field of Zoology who are able to relate appropriately to their environment. These will contribute to society as educators, scientists and entrepreneurs.
- To provide a foundation to other fields of study by offering service courses across schools.
- To build a foundation for postgraduate studies and subsequent contribution to teaching and research.
- Encourage research and innovation in the field of Zoology by offering postgraduate training, mentorship and research.