Photo: Prof. James O. OchandaProf. James Opiyo Ochanda (1957 - 2016) a Professor of Biochemistry at the Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Nairobi was the founding Director of the
Centre for Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (2005 - 2014) in the College of Biological &
Physical Sciences. The late Prof. J.O. Ochanda held a Ph.D. from the Hokkaido University,
Japan. Prof. J.O. Ochanda played a critical role in institutionalizing biotechnology and
bioinformatics at the University of Nairobi and within the region. Prof. Ochanda was a pioneer in promoting biosciences in Kenya and in the region.

The Centre for Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (CEBIB) established in 2005 is not only a flagship project of the University Nairobi but it was also the first such Centre to be established at the higher education level in Kenya, East and Central Africa. Prof. Ochanda established, provided mentorship, and coordinated several collaborative research projects and activities that anchored biosciences both nationally and internationally.

Professor J. O. Ochanda immense experience in biosciences research, focused strategically in advanced biosciences as applied in enhancing postgraduate training and institutional capacity building in biotechnology, bioinformatics and biochemistry. The compelling evidence is provided by Prof. Ochanda's widely cited high quality research publications data consisting of over 60 papers in journals and proceedings; over 38 conferences and workshops organized and attended as well as over 20 postgraduate scientists. Professor J. O. Ochanda was a founder member and a former Chairman, of African Biotechnology Stakeholders Forum (ABSF) from 2000 – 2002 and became the Executive Director of ABSF, in 2003. In 2004, he was also the coordinator of NEPAD supported regional Biosciences for Eastern and Central Africa(BECA) Program based at ILRI, Nairobi Kenya.

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