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Ph.D. in Leather Engineering specialization with leather technology
Biography
Peter Maina Wairimu
Contact: +254718835737/+251701027455
Email: petermaina63@gmail.com /maina.peter@dkut.ac.ke
I am Peter Maina Wairimu, a dedicated leather scientist and technologist with over seven years of experience in leather technology, academic research, and student mentorship. I hold a Master of Science and a Bachelor of Science in Leather Technology from Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, Kenya. In March 2025, I commenced my PhD studies in Leather Engineering at the Ethiopian Institute of Textile and Fashion Technology, Bahir Dar University, specializing in leather technology.
My academic career includes serving as a Tutorial Fellow at Dedan Kimathi University of Technology since 2020, where I have been actively involved in lecturing, supervising research projects, and assessing industrial attachments. I have authored peer-reviewed publications on structural, chemical, and physical properties of leather and have presented my research at international conferences.
I am a member and Assistant Treasurer of the Kenya Association of Leather Technologists and Scientists (K.A.L.T.S.) and have completed multiple professional trainings in leather testing, sustainability, occupational safety, and tannery effluent treatment.
Beyond academics, I am passionate about innovation in leather processing and sustainability. My career goal is to advance leather technology through research, education, and industry collaboration, contributing to environmentally responsible and technologically advanced leather production globally
Ph.D. in Leather Engineering specialization with footwear technology and engineering
Biography
Dennis Wandia -Biograph-PhD student
Dennis Wandia is a PhD student in Leather Engineering specialization in Footwear Design and Engineering at Ethiopian Institute of Textile and Fashion Technology (EiTEX), Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia. He holds both MSc. and BSc. in Leather Technology from Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT), Kenya. His research and academic interests are focused on sustainable manufacturing, circular economy practices and cleaner production technologies in the leather and footwear industries.
Prior to his Doctoral studies, Dennis worked as a Tutorial Fellow in DeKUT in the Chemistry Department, where he taught undergraduate and diploma courses, as well as aided research work in Leather Technology. He has been actively engaged in the development of curricula as well as in the national training agenda towards improving technical competencies within the leather value chain in Kenya.
Dennis has done researches on rabbit leather properties and comparative re-tanning agents in footwear. He has attended different international/ regional conferences and seminars such as the IULTCS Congress, International Conference on Science, Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, among other MOFCOM-sponsored seminars in China on eco-leather manufacturing, leather standards, and development of the footwear industry.
Through his PhD research, Dennis aims to promote sustainable and industry-relevant knowledge that supports the growth of Africa’s Leather and Footwear Industries.
Ph.D. in Leather Engineering specialization with footwear technology and engineering
Biography
James Kihara Wangui
+254700237427/ +251707016092
James Kihara Wangui, is a dedicated and accomplished leather technologist currently pursuing a PhD in Leather Engineering at Bahir Dar University. With a strong academic background, he holds a Master of Science in Leather Technology from Dedan Kimathi University (2021–2023) and a Bachelor of Science in the same field from the same institution (2015–2018). His expertise spans leather technology, material analysis, and research methodologies, complemented by hands-on experience through his thriving leather brand, Jimmy Small Co (JS).
James has contributed significantly to the leather industry as a Consultant at the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), where he conducted market research, analysed data, and identified gaps in Kenya’s leather value chain. He also serves as a Technical Committee Member at the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), actively participating in the development of leather and footwear standards. Additionally, his role as a Graduate Assistant at Dedan Kimathi University honed his skills in teaching, laboratory management, and academic administration. He combines technical proficiency with strong interpersonal and team management skills. His research and entrepreneurial endeavours reflect his passion for advancing the leather industry. He is committed to innovation and excellence, making him a valuable asset to his academic and professional communities.