Dr. Hamidou Maiga is the Head of the Department of Biotechnology at the Sya Innovation Center (SIC). His research work focuses on the development of biotechnology-based innovative and alternative/complementary tools against human vector diseases such as malaria but also dengue and other neglected tropical disease vectors. He is a medical entomologist that worked on human disease vector control strategies/tools including trapping, swarming and mating behavior in the development of genetic tools. He has a broad background in biochemistry and applied biology, with specific training and expertise in mosquito bioecology and nutritional reserves, and the sterile insect technique (SIT). He worked on various aspects including mosquito mass-rearing tools but also surveillance and monitoring in the field. He also learned that the success of a mosquito control program often hinges on an adequate understanding of the dynamics of the target population. He is closely working under Pr. Abdoulaye Diabate, the Executive Director of SIC, on several projects on promising vector control approaches on the horizon to suppress mosquito disease vectors or to reduce their ability to transmit pathogens responsible of diseases like malaria, dengue, yellow fever, Zika, etc. Dr. Maiga held an international position as a Medical Entomologist at the FAO/IAEA Insect Pest Control Laboratory, where he built a strong network and experience on the development and the deployment of the SIT. He contributed to the training of several Member states in Asia, Europe and Latine America on the Phased Conditional Approach for Mosquito Management using SIT. He has published/co-authored numerous papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals. He has published/co-authored numerous papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals. He is fully dedicated to mentoring young scientists and is known for his supportive and encouraging approach to training the next generation of researchers.