Professor Isabella Oyier is a molecular epidemiologist and Head of the Biosciences Department at the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme. She is also a Professor of Molecular Epidemiology in the Nuffield Department of Medicine at the University of Oxford. Her research focuses on integrating malaria molecular epidemiology into routine surveillance in Kenya, with particular interest in understanding parasite diversity and monitoring antimalarial resistance.
Throughout her career, Professor Oyier has contributed to strengthening scientific leadership and research capacity across Africa. As a Calestous Juma Science Leadership Fellow, she has supported initiatives aimed at advancing African-led research and innovation. Her appointment reflects the Programme’s continued commitment to research excellence and regional leadership in global health.
Professor Ambrose Agweyu has been appointed Deputy Director, Nairobi. A consultant paediatrician and Professor of Epidemiology and Child Health, he has longstanding links with the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme and previously led its Department of Epidemiology and Demography.
His research spans pragmatic clinical trials, infectious disease surveillance, implementation science and childhood respiratory infections. His work has played an important role in shaping child health guidelines and policy in Africa and globally.
Together, Professors Oyier and Agweyu will help shape the future direction of the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, strengthening its work across clinical research, epidemiology, biosciences and public health partnerships in Kenya and beyond.