Tell us about your background. Where are you from? What brought you to Mpala? Where have you previously studied or conducted research?
I am Chrispin Odhiambo, originally from the Abasuba community—also known as the Luo-Abasuba—an island community in Kenya. I have always been fascinated by how natural ecosystems function and, more broadly, how plants adapt to environmental variability. To fulfil this curiosity, I pursued a degree in Environmental Science for my undergraduate studies, and with the same determination, I am now pursuing a Master’s degree in Conservation Biology at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) in Juja, Kenya. My studies are supported by the Mpala Graduate Student Scholarship. My passion for understanding savanna ecosystems and their resilience to climate variability is what brought me to Mpala—a living laboratory, as many of us researchers here fondly call it.
What projects are you currently working on at Mpala? What are your research goals?
My research examines how soil type and herbivory influence tree phenology—the timing of leafing, flowering, and fruiting—in savanna ecosystems, focusing on Vachellia species. I aim to understand how these factors interact to shape the species’ phenological patterns and productivity. Ultimately, my goal is to provide insights into how soil and herbivory dynamics affect tree performance and ecosystem functioning, with implications for conservation and sustainable land management in African savannas.
What is one of your favorite things about working at Mpala?
One of my favorite things about working at Mpala is the unique blend of research, community, and wildlife. It’s not every day that you can collect phenology data under the scorching sun while giraffes and elephants browse nearby, or sit in the library troubleshooting data analysis alongside other researchers. I also value the networks and collaborations at Mpala—from fellow students to principal scientists—who are always willing to share ideas and field experiences. A particularly memorable moment for me was participating in the National Wildlife Aerial Census, where I learned to identify and count animals from the air while helping to transcribe real-time data. And don’t even get me started on the bush driving—equal parts phobia and thrill! But that’s a story for another day.
What impact do you believe your time at Mpala will have on your professional career?
My time at Mpala has been both transformative and worthwhile. It has strengthened my skills in ecological research, data analysis, and scientific communication while grounding me in real-world conservation challenges. The diversity of the Mpala community has inspired me to think critically about conservation and the sustainable use of natural ecosystems and resources. The hands-on experience, cultural exchange, fieldwork, and mentorship I’ve received here will go a long way in shaping me into a dedicated ecologist committed to addressing environmental issues in Africa and beyond.
