Nationality: Nigerian

Institution: University of Witwatersrand

Department: Evolutionary Studies Institute

PAST programme support: Research Project support

Research title: Palynology and paleoenvironment of onshore Quaternary sediments from the Niger/Cross River Delta in Nigeria

Dr. Linus Bashie Ajikah is a multidisciplinary researcher specializing in palynology, aerobiology, paleoecology, and environmental botany. His work focuses on understanding past vegetation dynamics and environmental changes, particularly during the Quaternary and Holocene periods, through the analysis of fossil pollen and spores.

I am engaged in aerobiological research, monitoring allergenic airborne particles like pollen and fungal spores in urban environment – linking their presence to respiratory health risks. This work supports early warning systems for allergy sufferers and contributes to the South African Pollen Monitoring Network (SAPNET).

Currently, I hold a postdoctoral position at the Evolutionary Studies Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, and lecture at the University of Calabar. I am also a visiting researcher at the University of Helsinki. My mission is to connect palaeoecological insights with modern environmental and health challenges, contributing to policies for biodiversity conservation and public health. I am an active member of global scientific networks, including the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF).