Walter Oguta

Background

About Walter Oguta

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE:Dynamic and result-oriented Laboratory Scientist and Bioinformatics Analyst with over a decade of experience in laboratory diagnostics, data analytics, pathogen genomics, and quality assurance within national, international, and emergency response contexts. Demonstrated success in research, surveillance, and capacity building roles across Africa with WHO, ILRI, and KEMRI. Adept in high-throughput molecular techniques, genomic surveillance, and health systems strengthening. Recognized for delivering high-impact contributions in multidisciplinary teams while thriving in complex and fast-paced environments.CORE COMPETENCIES:• Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response: Extensive experience in epidemic/pandemic preparedness coordination, outbreak analytics, laboratory trainings, EQA programs, and One Health implementation.• Genomic and Bioinformatics Expertise: Skilled in pathogen genomics, metagenomics, variant analysis, and pipeline development for surveillance of Mpox, SARS-CoV-2, AMR pathogens, and filoviruses.• Molecular and Microbiological Techniques: Proficient in qPCR, PCR-HRM, NGS (Illumina, ONT), gene expression assays, MALDI-TOF MS, Vitek-2, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.• Computational and Statistical Analyses: Experienced with R, Python, shell scripting, REDCap, Epi Info, GraphPad Prism, and advanced Excel for data management and visualization.• Quality Assurance: Knowledgeable in GCLP, SOP development, QC processes, EQA implementation, and laboratory accreditation procedures.• Scientific Communication: Strong background in manuscript and grant writing, conference presentations, and technical reporting• Training and Mentorship: Skilled in capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and training health personnel and researchers in laboratory and genomic surveillance techniques.