My Transformative Fellowship Journey

| By Elijah Okwuonu

When I began my PhD journey, I knew it would test both my passion and grit, but I never imagined how it would reshape me.

As a recipient of the West African Mammal Fellowship (WAMF), I've had the privilege of studying cave-dwelling bats in Enugu State, Nigeria, exploring parasite diversity, behavior, and their role in nature.

A portrait of Dr. Elijah Okwuonu in his convocation robe, commemorating his graduation

Research Highlights

With support from the fellowship, I set out to identify bat species across different caves, molecularly identify trypanosomes and ectoparasites, and model how their parasite loads respond to environmental change. Each field trip came with the thrill of collecting data that could change how we understand ecosystem health.

Beyond the scope of my research were the local communities, which had long coexisted with the bats I was studying. Educating them on the ecological importance of these species became one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work. Along the way, I learned to use field equipment with precision and to work independently as a researcher.

Overcoming Challenges

On this journey, there were hard days. Communal conflicts and security challenges often disrupted my fieldwork. But with every obstacle, I learned something new. By engaging local stakeholders, training community assistants, and adapting to the new reality, I built more resilience. My research grew from being just about data to building connections, learning flexibility, and staying courageous in uncertainties.

Impact of the Fellowship

The impact of this Fellowship extends far beyond my thesis. It opened doors to mentorship, collaboration, and global visibility. I’ve gained confidence to lead independent projects, network with experts, and refined my skills in grant writing and molecular analysis. It has also led me to additional opportunities, including grants from The Rufford Foundation, Bat Conservation International (BCI), American Society of Mammalogists (ASM), Idea Wild, and Berlin Center for Global Engagement (BCGE) Flexible Travel Funds.

Dr. Elijah in Molecular Parasitology, Humboldt University, Berlin

Lessons Learned

If there’s one lesson this journey has taught me, it’s that science thrives on collaboration, curiosity, and courage. These lessons will continue to guide me as I progress in my academic and professional pursuits.

Looking Forward

The West Africa Mammal Fellowship (WAMF) has been an enlightening experience for me. It has shown me the value of mentorship and the ripple effect of knowledge shared. As I look ahead, I hope my story reminds other young scientists that the toughest field conditions can lead to the most rewarding discoveries.