Bernice Ngina Waweru (she/her) is a third-year PhD student registered at the University of East Anglia in Norwich and doing research at the John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, under the supervision of Prof. Cristobal Uauy. Her research focuses on plant science and genomics data analysis.
Bernice’s Journey So Far
Bernice’s journey began in Kenya where she learnt to admire those who dared to follow unconventional paths, her parents being her first role models, “they broke cultural norms by supporting each other in pursuing their ambitions. My father studied abroad while my mother took care of us, and later, they reversed roles when she explored her business pursuits. Their example taught me that nothing is unreachable.”
Since then, Bernice’s journey has been nothing short of twists and turns. Before entering the world of plant science, she completed a degree in Biomedical Sciences and Biotechnology. The shift came after a pivotal placement at a plant research institute led her to pursue an MSc in Plant Breeding and Biotechnology.
“During my research, I encountered data analysis for the first time, which ignited my passion for genomics and bioinformatics.”
Her master’s work on QTL mapping of stem rust resistance loci in wheat sparked her interest in genomics data analysis, leading her to training in bioinformatics. This experience in genetics and genomics data analysis enabled Bernice to work as a bioinformatician at ILRI for two and a half years before starting her PhD at JIC in 2022.
As well as deepening her understand through personal study, Bernice participated in two significant fellowships. The first was a one-year USAID-sponsored Borlaug-LEAP fellowship with Dr. Jim Anderson at the University of Minnesota, where she learned about genotyping by sequencing (GBS) and was introduced to bioinformatics. In 2018, Bernice was among 14 African fellows selected for an eight-month bioinformatics residential fellowship, coordinated by Prof. Cristobal Uauy, Dr. Rob Davey, and Dr. Jean-Baka Entfellner.
In February 2022, Bernice’s dream of working with Prof. Cristobal Uauy became a reality when she was awarded a fully funded PhD scholarship at the John Innes Centre, a world-renowned centre of excellence for plant science research.
“It was an incredible moment of validation, proving that with belief, determination, and hard work, nothing is unattainable.”
Her current research focuses on plant science and genomics data analysis. Her PhD work involves implementing the Identical-By-State (IBSpy: https://github.com/Uauy-Lab/IBSpy) pipeline to identify novel wheat haplotypes linked to disease resistance, specifically yellow rust, a devastating disease in wheat.
In March 2024, Bernice was one of the first recipients of the Black in Plant Science Research Excellence Award.
“It was an unexpected and deeply appreciated honour that made me feel truly validated in all the work I’ve done over the years. This recognition has filled me with hope as I continue to navigate my career in plant science here in the UK.”
The Importance of Mentors
“A good mentor is someone who sees and understands you as a whole person, recognizing the various factors that shape your responses and adaptations to different situations. They identify your strengths and weaknesses and guide you toward opportunities that foster growth and development, all while ensuring you feel safe and supported, even when things don’t go as planned. A good mentor creates an environment that encourages a growth mindset and self-improvement, not just professionally but also on a personal level.”
From Kenya to the UK, Bernice has been fortunate to find mentors who have guided and encouraged her to take the next steps. Namely, Dr. Godwin Macharia at KALRO-Njoro in Kenya, Dr. Jean-Baka Entfellner, and Dr. Oluwaseyi Shorinola at ILRI-Nairobi. “Currently, my supervisor, Prof. Cristobal Uauy, continues to inspire and support my growth.”
In addition to these mentors, conversations with remarkable women in science, such as Dr. Faith Osier, Dr. Damaris Odeny, and Dr. Fauzia Musasia, have greatly influenced and encouraged Bernice as a Black woman in STEM. “Their success and resilience have motivated me to pursue my goals with confidence and determination.”
“Having benefited from mentorship myself, I also take great pride in encouraging others to believe in themselves and seize new opportunities, watching them grow and thrive as a result.”
The Future of Science
Thinking of the future, Bernice reminded us of the importance of positive representation for the inclusivity and visibility of all despite their differences.
“Organizations like Black in Plant Science and others that champion and recognize the work of Black scientists in the UK give me hope for the future. These organizations provide essential inspiration and role models for young Black scientists, while also fostering visibility and creating platforms where Black scientists can connect, share experiences, and learn together.”
She reminds that it is the sense of belonging created by these organisations that builds the confidence and courage needed to advance into leadership and senior roles across all areas of science. “Together, these efforts pave the way for a bright and impactful future for Black scientists in the UK.”
In recent years many institutions have seen an increase in initiatives aimed at promoting Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). Bernice provides us with an insightful perspective on the future of EDI in science, “I believe we need more structured efforts to empower individuals based on their unique strengths and needs, much like how we design experiments to address specific objectives. Such targeted support would be instrumental in fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.”
“To up-and-coming Black scientists, I would say: you are enough, and you have what it takes—never doubt yourself. Remember, every failure carries a lesson that will propel you forward. Keep believing in yourself and continue pushing ahead.”