Dr. Maurice Bolo holds a PhD in Innovation, Technology and Development Policy from The Open University (United Kingdom) and has over 10 years work experience in the fields of science, technology, innovation and development policy. His work has centered on carrying out research and managing research processes; programme development, managing inter – organizational collaborative projects and coordinating multi-disciplinary research teams/working groups involving various nationalities, race and cultures. He has a wealth of experience in training and capacity building and facilitating multi-stakeholder processes. Dr. Bolo has written and published journal papers, books, technical reports, and international conferences mainly Innovation, Technology and Development Policy. His research work has focused more on agriculture and health analyzing innovation systems and management. His latest book “Learning and Innovation in Agri-Export Industries” published in June 2012 examines the role of partnerships, institutions and governance arrangements in building cut flower farmers’ innovation capabilities

Dr. Lydia Olaka holds a PhD in Geology from Universität Potsdam, Germany and an MSC (Environmental Geology and Management) from the University of Nairobi, Kenya. Lydia has extensive experience in water resources conservation and management and her research worked has involved mapping and quantifying dynamics in water resources: in rivers, lakes and groundwater systems within the East African Rift, related to climate change and anthropogenic influences. Additionally, she has also carried out research in changes in land use and land cover and is interested in food security issues in sub-Saharan Africa, developing early warning systems that use multispectral satellite imagery.

Mr. Wycliffe Guya holds a bachelor’s degree in education (science) from Egerton University, Kenya and has 10 years’ experience as a high school teacher of Mathematics and Physics. He’s currently an MSc student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology pursuing an Msc in Physics (Renewable Energy Option). He is due to conclude his research work on the “Effectiveness of clay as solar energy absorbers for domestic use”. As a teacher, he has been responsible for career guidance and implored on his students on the importance of science in addressing societal challenges such as of energy requirements, environmental degradation and communication through inventions and innovation. Mr. Guya has also attended many in- service courses on the strengthening of teaching of Mathematics and Physics between 2004 and 2009 and has acquired a wealth of pedagogical skills in teaching science, mathematics and physics.

Mr. Stephen Ojwando holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from Kabarak University, Kenya and is a CPA finalist. He has three years’ experience in financial management, administration, budgeting, reporting to donors and advising programme departments on issues of financial concern with an emphasis on liabilities. Stephen has in-depth understanding of PASTEL EVOLUTION and SAGE PARTNER accounting software plus strong computer skills – MS- Office suite. He’s also conversant with donor funding procedures (UNEP, The Dutch Government, The Rockefeller Foundation & EU Framework Coordinated Actions). He has a wealth of experience in grant administration including collecting and reviewing financial deliverables and initiating payment disbursements.

Ms. Dorine Odongo holds a B.Sc (Hons) in Botany and Zoology from the University of Nairobi and is currently pursuing a Msc. in Agricultural Information and Communication Management. She also has a post graduate diploma in Project Management from the Kenya Institute of Management. Dorine has over five years’ experience in agricultural research, working with rural communities (particularly smallholder farmers) and carrying out surveys in the rural areas of Kenya. She has previously been involved in conducting farmer trainings on various topics, and has also served as a lecturer in the College of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences at the University of Nairobi.

Mr. Collins Manyasi holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Nairobi and has three years working experience mainly in research, community development and marketing. He has recently completed a one year incubation program in May 2012, having worked as a program assistant with Skillnest Research Agency. Part of his work involved building capacity in research and education in universities, organizations, individuals and community support programs.

Besides this core team, the Centre engages consultants; research fellowships and internships to shore up its capacity as needs arise.