Erick is interested in using advanced genetic and genomic tools to accelerate the adoption of alternative crops in African arid and saline regions. He is currently focusing on germplasm trials to identify target genes for crop improvement through advanced tools such as CRIPSR genome editing. Erick has a solid publication record with more than combined 2000 citations. He believes CRISPR is the most effective and sustainable immediate option to combat climate change driven malnutrition and food insecurity in Africa. He has a professional certificate in CRISPR genome editing from the University of California, Davis and is the founding member of African Genome Editing Consortium. He earned Masters and Ph.D. from the University of Chinese Academy of Science in China where he received the Distinguished International Student Award. In his free time, he enjoys reading books.