Meet Ruth, an African scientist advancing cellular medicine through genomics and computational biology. She is helping to uncover new insights into human health and disease. Her work highlights the growing role of data-driven science and global collaboration in shaping the future of medicine.
Hello Ruth, it is wonderful to have you join us on this episode of Words That Count
Thank you for having me. And thanks to Anita Makori for the nomination.
Let’s begin with a simple introduction to who Ruth is
My name is Ruth Nanjala, and I am from Kenya. I currently reside in the United Kingdom, where I am pursuing a PhD in Molecular and Cellular Medicine at the University of Oxford. My work intersects genomics and computational biology, using powerful data analysis tools to better understand how our genes influence health and disease. I combine biological research with advanced computing to contribute to new ways of studying cells and improving how diseases are detected, understood, and treated.
Walk us through your journey into Cellular Medicine. How did you end up choosing this as your career path?
My journey began in Nairobi, Kenya, where I spent my early childhood before my family moved to western Kenya when I was eight years old. Growing up between these two environments shaped my curiosity about the world and the possibilities that education could unlock. I completed my primary education in Western Kenya, and later attended Kaimosi Girls High School in Vihiga County. This is where my passion for science began to take shape.
I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology at Pwani University, graduating with First Class Honours. Eager to deepen my interest in computational biology and data-driven science, I immediately began a Master’s degree in Bioinformatics. This was supported by the Eastern African Network for Bioinformatics Training (EANBiT) scholarship. My research during this time was conducted in collaboration with the University of Cape Town. This experience exposed me to international research environments and strengthened my interest in genomics and bioinformatics.
After completing my master’s degree, I spent a year working in capacity building at the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe). Here, I helped train and mentor bioinformatics interns. This experience reinforced my passion not only for research but also for mentorship and building scientific capacity across Africa.
That journey eventually led me to the University of Oxford, where I am currently pursuing my PhD, continuing my work at the intersection of genomics, computational biology, and global scientific collaboration.
What are some of the challenges you have faced while navigating this career in cellular Medicine?
One of the most defining challenges in my journey has been transitioning from a wet-lab background in microbiology to the computational world of bioinformatics. During my undergraduate studies, I was very comfortable in the laboratory. I worked with cultures, pipettes, and experiments I could physically see and test. However, as I progressed in my studies, my curiosity was increasingly drawn to the computational side of science. This prompted me to pursue a new field: Bioinformatics.
When I started my master’s in bioinformatics, the environment changed completely. The tools were no longer microscopes and petri dishes, but code, algorithms, and large genomic datasets. I remember moments in the beginning when I felt like a total imposter. I was surrounded by people who seemed fluent in programming while I was just learning the basics. It was intimidating at times, but it pushed me to grow.
Through persistence, curiosity, and a willingness to keep learning, I gradually built the skills and confidence to bridge experimental biology and computational science. This has now become one of my greatest strengths.
You have mentioned persistence and curiosity as one of your driving factors. What else has kept you motivated when times got challenging?
One of my earliest sources of inspiration was my family. I was the first person in my extended family to attend university, and pursuing higher education was in many ways a fulfillment of my father’s dream for me. His belief in the power of education motivated me to work hard and make the most of every opportunity that came my way.
As my journey progressed, especially through research and international collaborations, I began to realize just how vast the world of science and discovery truly is. What started as a personal goal gradually became something bigger: the realization that there are endless possibilities to learn, contribute, and create impact. That understanding continues to inspire me to push forward, not only for myself and my family, but also to help open doors for others.
Let’s talk about some of the most prestigious moments in your career in cellular medicine
Throughout my academic and leadership journey, I have been fortunate to receive several recognitions that reflect my commitment to scientific research, mentorship, and global collaboration. In 2026, I was awarded the Public Engagement with Research Innovation Fund at Reuben College, University of Oxford. This award supports initiatives that connect research with wider communities and promote public understanding of science.
In 2025, I received the Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Award from AFS Intercultural Programs. This award recognizes emerging African leaders who are making a meaningful impact in their communities and fields. That same year, I was honoured with the Mentorship Impact Award from the JR Biotek Foundation. This was for my contributions to mentoring and supporting early-career scientists. I was also selected as an SDG Impact Lab Fellow at the University of Oxford. Here, I worked with interdisciplinary teams to advance solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
My leadership journey has also been shaped by global platforms. In 2024, I was selected as a Global Leadership Challenge Fellow through a partnership between the University of St. Gallen and the University of Oxford. Earlier, in 2023, I was recognized among the Top 100 “Leaders of Tomorrow” at the 52nd St. Gallen Symposium. My essay ranked among the Top 25 globally in the symposium’s international essay competition.
Beyond my research work, I have also had the privilege of serving as the Vice President of the University of Oxford Africa Society. Here, I design and implement programs that support African students to thrive academically and socially at Oxford and beyond. I also serve as a student ambassador with the Kenya High Commission. I represent Kenyan students in the United Kingdom and advocate for stronger academic networks and opportunities for scholars. This role led to the honour of being invited to Buckingham Palace, where I met His Majesty, King Charles III. The experience was both humbling and inspiring. It reinforced the importance of global dialogue, cultural exchange, and the role of African scholars in international academic communities.
My commitment to creating inclusive opportunities in academia was acknowledged when I was shortlisted for the University of Oxford’s Inaugural Vice Chancellor’s Awards in the Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion category for leading the Oxford Africa Mentorship Scheme. This initiative supports African students to apply for graduate programmes at the University of Oxford. In 2024, I was also awarded an Amplify Travel Grant from the Black Women in Computational Biology Network. This grant supported my participation in global scientific engagement.
My academic journey has been supported by prestigious scholarships, including the Clarendon Scholarship and the AfOx Kennedy Trust for Rheumatology Research PhD Scholarship at the University of Oxford (2022). I also received a Master’s scholarship from EANBiT between 2019 and 2021.
Earlier in my research career, I received Best Presenter awards at the H3Africa Consortium Meetings in 2021 and 2022. This award recognised my ability to communicate scientific research effectively.
Beyond my academic work, I am also the founder of My Science Journey. This is a platform dedicated to sharing stories, experiences, and insights from scientists navigating their careers in STEM. I aim to make scientific journeys more visible and relatable, particularly for students and early-career researchers who may not always see themselves represented in these spaces. The platform highlights diverse scientific pathways, encourages mentorship, and helps inspire the next generation of scientists to pursue their ambitions with confidence.
Wow! These are indeed prestigious highlights. Thank you for putting in the hard work, Ruth!
Tell us about some of the things you enjoy doing outside of the cellular medicine and computational biology world
Outside work, I enjoy unwinding with a good crime, thriller, or detective series. I love the suspense and the challenge of trying to piece together the mystery before the final reveal. I’m also fascinated by documentaries on global politics and geopolitics. These feed my curiosity about how different parts of the world are connected and how global events shape societies.
When I’m not behind a screen, you can often find me at the bowling alley, enjoying the fun and friendly competition with friends.
What is your favorite quote?“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts” ~ Winston Churchill
How would you encourage a young girl who is interested in pursuing a career in cellular medicine?
It is absolutely possible to succeed as a young woman in science. Do not let cultural stereotypes or expectations limit what you believe you can achieve.
Thank you, Ruth, for sharing about your journey in cellular medicine, genomics, and computational biology. We wish you the very best in your PhD and look forward to celebrating you more.
