Associate Professor Eric Katovai is the Pro Vice-Chancellor β Academic at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU), bringing nearly 20 years of experience in higher education and environmental biology. A specialist in tropical forest ecology, ecosystem functioning, and biodiversity conservation, his work focuses on vegetation dynamics, ecosystem recovery, and sustainable environmental management in Melanesia.
Before joining SINU, he held senior academic roles at Pacific Adventist University and the University of the South Pacific, where he led major research initiatives in conservation and sustainable development. He is also a committed mentor, supporting the growth of young scientists across the Pacific.
Associate Professor Katovai holds a PhD in Tropical Ecology from James Cook University, an MSc in Conservation Biology from the University of Queensland, and Bachelorβs degrees in Biology, Physics, and Education. His leadership and research continue to advance academic excellence and environmental stewardship in the Pacific Islands.