Jessica Lenka

Biography

Biography

Dr Jessica Lenka is currently a Teaching Fellow in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology since her appointment in September 2023 following a brief role as hourly paid academic and teaching technician at the University of Salford, UK. Dr Lenka obtained her PhD in Biochemistry at the University of Salford in 2022 which was funded by the prestigious Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF Nigeria) where she worked on identifying lignin degrading enzymes from the gut of the African palm weevil for potential application in biomass bioconversion. Dr Lenka's MSc. Biochemistry (2014) and BSc. Biochemistry (2007) degrees were awarded by the University of Lagos and University of Jos, Nigeria respectively. Following her undergraduate degree and completion of mandatory National Youth Service Corps scheme in Nigeria, she worked as a customer service officer in a reputable commercial bank before resigning her appointment to join the Department of Biochemistry, University of Jos as a graduate assistant and then lecturer in Biochemistry.

Research and scholarship

Research and scholarship

My current area of research is in host-microbiome interactions and enzyme bioprospecting from understudied environments. I have previously undertaken research in different areas of biochemistry (toxicology, nutrition, cancer and diabetes).

Teaching

Teaching

I am involved in teaching of undergraduate students in Biochemistry, Biomedical sciences, and Human Biology programs in a wide range of topics in different modules.

Publications

Publications

Supervision

Supervision

I have supervised undergraduate students in the school of life sciences on systematic review style research projects.

Collaborations and grants awards

Collaborations and grants awards

Beneficiary of the PTDF overseas scholarship, Funds for women graduates (FfWG) grant, and several bursaries and grants from professional associations I belong to.