Edem Mahu
Edem Mahu
Edem Mahu is a Ghanaian marine scientist who is an Associate Professor at the University of Ghana. Her research considers ocean health, oyster fisheries and climate change. She was awarded the 2022 American Geophysical Union Africa Award for Research Excellence in Ocean Sciences.
"As an early-career scientist, I faced significant challenges, particularly the lack of infrastructure for advanced research. Before ARISE, I often had to ship samples abroad for analysis, a process fraught with delays and high costs. This hampered my ability to conduct timely and impactful research."
"In 2020, my career took a transformative turn when I became one of the principal investigators supported by ARISE. The programme provided funding that allowed me to establish Ghana’s first isotope ratio mass spectrometer laboratory—a groundbreaking achievement for marine science in the region. This state-of-the-art facility has enabled me to conduct advanced research, such as reconstructing climate history and assessing human impacts on marine ecosystems."
"ARISE’s investment did not stop at infrastructure. It provided the resources and mentorship needed to scale my research and collaborate with peers across Africa. Today, my lab serves as a hub for researchers from Ghana and neighbouring countries like Nigeria, fostering regional collaboration and advancing marine science on the continent."
"With ARISE support, I have advanced research into the ecological and human health risks of heavy metal pollution in Ghana’s coastal waters. My work has informed policy discussions on environmental protection and sustainable development."
"My lab has become a regional resource, hosting researchers and fostering partnerships with institutions across Africa. This collaborative approach is key to addressing shared challenges such as marine pollution, food security, and climate adaptation."
