the gem
Dr Sam Leareng
responsiveness could provide earlier warning signals.”
Sam uses molecular and genomic approaches to examine the effects of anthropogenic inputs on aquatic ecosystems. For him, the OMT Fellowship brings both stability and momentum.
Within CERI and the African Microbiome Research Group, he values the interdisciplinary and supportive culture. “The support from my host emphasises that our science contributes meaningfully beyond publications.”
“Personally, it is nice to have the financial stability to fully focus on my research,” he says. “Professionally, the fellowship provides the space and platform to strengthen my postdoctoral research… and build momentum towards research independence and longterm impact.”
And beyond the lab? “It is nice to run around playing football with colleagues at the end of the week,” he adds – a reminder that strong science thrives in strong communities.
His research focuses on wastewater-impacted freshwater systems and how excess nutrients, pollutants and antimicrobial resistance genes reshape microbial community structure and function. With only about 20% of wastewater adequately treated across Africa, these systems represent significant environmental and public health risks. “AMR doesn’t just begin and end in hospitals,” he explains. “There is a broader ecological dimension.” By integrating genomic data into water-quality monitoring frameworks, Sam hopes to develop more ecologically meaningful indicators of ecosystem stress. “Microbial communities respond rapidly to environmental change,” he says, “and that
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His advice to aspiring environmental scientists: stay curious, seek out inspiring research groups, and learn to work across disciplines. “The challenges we face require people who can connect ideas.”
Dr Matteo Nello John Gregori Nello is a passionate environmental microbiologist with experience across terrestrial and marine systems. Within the African Microbiome Group, he combines bioinformatics, culture-based methods, and analytical techniques to investigate the role of marine microorganisms in biogeochemical cycles –and how anthropogenic and natural pressures impact these vital ecosystem services.