Career journey and aspirations
I am an atmospheric scientist committed to advancing research capacity in the Global South. My research focuses on transdisciplinary cross-border collaborations for tackling global challenges in the domains of:
- Developing data infrastructure in low-resourced settings
- Advancing the critical interface between science and policy through science diplomacy.
I am involved, as a co-chair, in organising the annual Africa air quality forum, a regional convening to enable cross-border collaborations for clean air in Africa.
As a scientific expert, I have directly contributed to the development of contextual frameworks to advance the air quality and climate agenda, including the UNEA 6/10 resolution on advancing regional cooperation for air quality, the East Africa vehicular emission standards, and Uganda's first air quality regulations. I am proudly involved in the annual Africa Air Quality Forum, a regional platform for knowledge exchange and partnerships for solutions in Africa. The forum is convened by the Africa Clean Air Network (www.cleanairafrica.org), for which I am a co-facilitator.
Since 2018, I have had the privilege of working with AirQo (www.airqo.africa), a Google.org AI Impact Challenge winner and a 2026 Earthshot Prize Finalist where I currently oversee research efforts and global partnerships. In the same capacity, I contribute to training and mentoring the next generation of scientists. AirQo is housed at Makerere University's Department of Computer Science; Makerere is also my alma mater, where I completed my first degree.
Outside the professional bubble
About my name
As someone raised Catholic, my first name carries a Latin origin. Deo is derived from Deogratias, which is Latin for "thanks be to God". While I was baptised as Deogratias, I opted to go by 'Deo' due to teachers’ concerns that I might struggle to remember the correct spelling.
Family relations
Relations: I am a ‘middle child’ and was raised in a typical African family (more than 10 children), and I make an effort to foster connections with every family member, although I am probably closer to a few of them.
Childhood dreams: In my younger years, I harboured a rare ambition of becoming the Pope, yes, the Pontiff of the holy Roman Church. Interestingly, I recently discovered that I technically remain eligible to be the Pope. However, I am happily married and divide my time between Uganda and Europe for family reasons.
Social Lifestyle
Sleep habits: Working across different time zones offers a convenient excuse for not adhering to a regular sleep schedule. However, I acknowledge that this is an aspect I am working on improving. Going to bed past midnight every day is a habit I'm not particularly proud of.
Communication: When it comes to communication, I strive to be as adaptable as possible. However, if you reach out to me simultaneously through text and email, you'll likely receive a quicker response via email. While I maintain an active presence on Twitter, I primarily utilise social media platforms for professional purposes.
Social interactions: I enjoy engaging in small talk - light-hearted conversations and sharing soft humour so I have less 'awkward silence' elevators.
On the contrary, I am quite conservative when it comes to the size of my immediate social circle. I tend to gravitate towards cultivating long-term friendships, valuing the depth and enduring nature of these connections. Nonetheless, I consider myself very lucky to have made friends and meaningful connections in different parts of the world.
A rare moment with a considerable number of childhood connections in one physical space
Love for sports: During my teenage years, I possessed considerable athletic abilities and actively engaged in various sports, including track and field. I still enjoy playing football socially, particularly as a goalkeeper. While I struggle to keep up with sports, and I have only watched a single Premier League game in the last 3 years. However, I can watch the national football/soccer team play for 90 minutes.
Typical evening: When it comes to evening engagements, I relish the opportunity to dine out. A restaurant or pub, preferably set within a hotel, creates the perfect ambience for me. Additionally, I have a fondness for white wine, which pairs well with a delectable meal.
This photo is special for three reasons: 1) My first ever-vegeterian only meal in a restaurant, 2). We (well, Rainer did) drove 8 hours from Los Angeles to San Francisco to meet Amy, a senior professional colleague I had only known virtually. 3). We dined at the Greens Restaurant (highly recommend) overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge
Travels: I have travelled to countries in North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, Middle East and Africa, for studies, professional engagement and adventure. I am presently splitting time between Europe and Africa, both for family and professional reasons
Personal ideology and philosophy
Love for nature: Animals hold a special place in my heart, and I regret not having any pets at the moment. I am genuinely conflicted about (not) being a vegetarian
Involvement in politics: I have a keen interest in global politics and often have something to contribute to discussions on the topic. For instance, Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons is akin to a captivating TV show for me. It's safe to say that I possess a considerable political inclination; who knows, maybe I will run for office at some point in time.
Ask me anything else you'd like to know.