Nigeria Maritime University Okerenkoko - Nigeria
Author Profile
Early Academic Pursuits
Dr. Amarachi Paschaline Onyena's academic journey commenced with a Bachelor's degree in Biological Science (Hydrobiology) from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri. Her undergraduate project focused on evaluating heavy metal concentrations in fishes from river and aquaculture systems. This foundational research instilled in her a keen interest in environmental studies, particularly in understanding the impact of anthropogenic activities on aquatic ecosystems.
Following her undergraduate studies, Dr. Onyena pursued a Master's degree in Marine Sciences, specializing in Marine Pollution and Management, at the University of Lagos. Her master's dissertation delved into the evaluation of anthropogenic impacts on sediment and macrobenthic fauna in creeks around Lagos Lagoon. This research underscored her commitment to investigating the ecological ramifications of human activities on marine environments.
Professional Endeavors
Dr. Onyena's professional journey has been marked by a blend of research, teaching, and community engagement activities. As a lecturer at the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, she has contributed significantly to the academic development of students in the field of environmental management. Her expertise spans various courses such as Water Quality, Marine Pollution, and Marine Biology.
In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Dr. Onyena has been actively involved in research projects focusing on water quality assessment, microplastics pollution, and benthic ecology. Her research endeavors have been augmented by international experiences, including a TWAS-CSIR Fellowship and participation in research programs in India and Germany. These experiences have broadened her perspective and enriched her scientific insights.
Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Onyena's research has made substantial contributions to the understanding of water quality dynamics, pollution assessment, and ecological risk evaluation in aquatic ecosystems, particularly in the Niger Delta region. Her studies on benthic macroinvertebrates, microplastics, and heavy metal pollution have provided valuable insights into the ecological health of coastal environments.
Furthermore, her involvement in global initiatives such as the World Youth Parliament for Water and participation in conferences and workshops demonstrates her commitment to addressing water-related challenges on a broader scale. Through her research and advocacy efforts, Dr. Onyena aims to promote sustainable water management practices and raise awareness about environmental conservation.
Accolades and Recognition
Dr. Onyena's academic achievements have been recognized through various awards and fellowships, including the TWAS-CSIR Ph.D. Fellowship and Institution Based Research (IBR) TETFUND grant. These accolades attest to her scholarly excellence and dedication to advancing scientific knowledge in her field.
Impact and Influence
Dr. Onyena's work has had a tangible impact on both academic discourse and environmental policymaking. Her research findings have been published in reputable journals and presented at international conferences, contributing to the global body of knowledge on marine ecology and pollution. Moreover, her involvement in community development initiatives and youth engagement programs underscores her commitment to fostering environmental stewardship among future generations.
Legacy and Future Contributions
As she continues her academic and professional journey, Dr. Onyena's legacy lies in her commitment to interdisciplinary research, mentorship of young scholars, and advocacy for sustainable environmental practices. Through her endeavors, she aspires to inspire positive change and contribute meaningfully to the preservation and conservation of aquatic ecosystems for generations to come.