Department of Biological Sciences
chairman of department
Department of Biological Sciences
Welcome to the Department of Biological Sciences at Maasai Mara University. The Department is home to a dedicated academic team with expertise spanning the three core disciplines of Botany, Microbiology, and Zoology, supported by experienced technologists and a growing community of postgraduate students engaged in cutting-edge research.
The Department is committed to advancing knowledge in the biological sciences, fostering academic excellence, and contributing to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity in Kenya and beyond. With a strong emphasis on both theoretical understanding and practical application, we prepare students for careers in academia, research, conservation, environmental management, and the many industries that depend on biological expertise.
Our research agenda is dynamic and purposeful, addressing some of the most pressing environmental and public health challenges of our time. In Botany, faculty and students investigate plant ecology, ethnobotany, agricultural biotechnology, and the conservation of plant biodiversity — work that is especially meaningful given Maasai Mara University’s proximity to one of Africa’s most celebrated ecosystems and its African Medicinal Botanical Garden. In Microbiology, research encompasses microbial ecology, environmental and industrial microbiology, pathogen biology, and bioremediation. In Zoology, our focus includes animal behaviour and ecology, entomology, parasitology, aquatic biology, and biodiversity management in the context of Kenya’s extraordinarily rich natural heritage.
The Department offers a comprehensive suite of programmes at undergraduate level — Bachelor of Science degrees in Botany, Microbiology, and Zoology — as well as postgraduate programmes at Master of Science level in Botany, Microbiology, Zoology, and Applied Entomology, and PhD training through the School of Pure and Applied Sciences. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong scientific foundation while equipping graduates with the practical and research skills needed to make meaningful contributions in their chosen fields.
We actively encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and engage in both local and international research projects, contributing to the broader scientific community while remaining firmly grounded in the real-world challenges facing Kenya and the African continent. Our goal is to develop well-rounded scientists and professionals who are not only technically competent but also deeply committed to sustainable development and the responsible stewardship of our natural environment.
We invite prospective students, researchers, and collaborators to explore what the Department has to offer. For enquiries, please reach us at bioscience@mmarau.ac.ke or contact us through Maasai Mara University, P.O. Box 861-20500, Narok, Kenya.
Dr. Paul Wanjala
Chairman, Department of Biological Sciences
chair-bioscience@mmarau.ac.ke
Academic programmes
The Department offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate courses across its three main disciplines: Botany, Microbiology, and Zoology. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in biological sciences, ensuring that students are well-prepared for careers or further study in these fields.
Bachelor of Science in Botany
- Introduction to Plant Science
- Plant Taxonomy
- Plant Physiology and Biochemistry
- Economic Botany
- Plant Ecology
- Applied Plant Biotechnology
- Conservation Biology
- Soil Science and Environmental Studies
Bachelor of Science in Microbiology
- General Microbiology
- Medical Microbiology
- Environmental Microbiology
- Industrial Microbiology
- Microbial Genetics
- Immunology
- Biochemistry of Microorganisms
- Molecular Microbiology
Bachelor of Science in Zoology
- General Zoology
- Animal Physiology
- Animal Ecology and Conservation
- Ethology (Animal Behavior)
- Evolutionary Biology
- Entomology
- Parasitology
- Aquatic Biology
- Immunology
The Department also offers postgraduate programs designed for students seeking advanced training and specialization in their chosen biological field. These programs emphasize research, critical thinking, and practical applications.
Master of Science in Botany (Courses marked with an asterisk* are under development)
- Plant Physiology and Biochemistry
- Advanced Plant Taxonomy*
- Plant Conservation and Management*
- Plant Ecology*
- Molecular Plant Biology*
- Plant Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering*
Master of Science in Microbiology (All under development)
- General Microbiology
- Advanced Medical Microbiology
- Environmental Microbiology and Bioremediation
- Microbial Genetics and Biotechnology
- Industrial Microbiology
Master of Science in Zoology (Courses marked with an asterisk* are under development)
- Applied Entomology
- Applied Parasitology*
- Animal Ecology*
Biology of Conservation*
Department of Biological Sciences | ||
Name | Designation / Rank | Area of Specialization |
Dr. Dominic Menge | Snr. Lecturer / Dean | Plant Physiology |
Dr. Paul Wanjala Mutebi | Snr. Lecturer / COD | Parasitology |
Prof. Stella Kirui Chelagat | Associate Professor | Applied Entomology |
Prof. Wycliffe Wanzala | Associate Professor | Ethnobiology |
Ms. Elizabeth Siameto | Lecturer | Genetics |
Ms. Mercy W. Kirumba | Lecturer | Environmental Microbiology |
Mrs. Bilha Saki Ogola | Lecturer | Parasitology |
Are You Ready To Join?
The Department is committed to developing well-rounded, skilled professionals who can tackle pressing issues related to biodiversity, conservation, and health. Through rigorous academic training and cutting-edge research, the department continues to make significant contributions to the scientific community and sustainable development initiatives.