Dr Jane Itohan

Dr Jane Itohan Otabor is a Lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences at the Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. She holds a PhD in entomology, an MSc in Entomology, and an MSc in Environmental Standards under the SPESSE programme at the University of Benin. Her academic training reflects a strong interdisciplinary foundation that integrates zoology, entomology, environmental management, and sustainability.

Dr Otabor’s research focuses on insect pest management, conservation entomology, plant–insect interactions, environmental pollution, and sustainability. Her work extensively examines the ecological impacts of invasive species, particularly Chromolaena odorata, on arthropod diversity and livelihood in southern Nigeria. She has co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals, covering topics such as invasive species ecology, biopesticides, edible insects, spider diversity, pesticide toxicity, and insect spatial distribution patterns. Her research contributes to sustainable pest management strategies and biodiversity conservation to enhance human livelihoods.

With over six years of university teaching experience, Dr. Otabor has progressed from Graduate Assistant to Lecturer I at the Federal University Wukari. She teaches courses including Invertebrate Zoology, Applied Entomology, Insect Pest Management, Biological Techniques, Cell and Molecular Biology, and General Biology. She has supervised undergraduate research projects since 2019, mentoring students in experimental design, field sampling, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation using tools such as SPSS and R. Her laboratory expertise includes microscopy, PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA/RNA extraction, and insect collection and identification.

Beyond research and teaching, Dr. Otabor has demonstrated outstanding leadership and service. She has served as an Academic Adviser to over 75 undergraduate students and as Secretary and member of the Field Trip Committee, organizing large-scale academic excursions. Her leadership excellence has been recognized with multiple awards, including Exemplary Leadership Awards, and recognition as one of the most outstanding students during her undergraduate studies. She also led a team in the Bio-Innovation for Africa Pitch Competition organized by the JR Biotek Foundation in collaboration with the University of Cambridge.

Dr Otabor is an active member of several professional bodies, including the Entomological Society of Nigeria, the Entomological Society of America, the Zoological Society of Nigeria, and the Ecological Society of Nigeria. She has participated in national and international conferences and specialized trainings, including molecular biology workshops and sustainable procurement and environmental standards certification.

Passionate about science communication, mentorship, and community engagement, Dr Otabor has volunteered in health education and youth mentoring initiatives. Her career is driven by a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge, promoting sustainable environmental management, and empowering the next generation of scientists through teaching, research, and leadership.