Birkneh Dosegnaw | Plant breeding | Research and Development Excellence Award

Mr. Birkneh Dosegnaw | Plant breeding | Research and Development Excellence Award

Associate researcher, Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Ethiopia

Birkneh Kuru Dosegnaw is an Associate Researcher at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (Pawe Agricultural Research Center) in Ethiopia. His expertise lies in plant breeding, focusing on sorghum, finger millet, maize, and tef. Birkneh holds an MSc in Plant Breeding and Genetics from Debre Markos University and a BSc in Plant Science from Wollo University. He has contributed significantly to research in genotype-environment interactions and yield stability, with publications in prestigious journals. His skills include data analysis, project coordination, and scientific writing. Birkneh is passionate about sustainable agricultural development and breeding for disease resistance. 🌾📊📚

Publication Profile

Orcid

Professional Experience 🌾

Birkneh Kuru Dosegnaw has a robust career in agricultural research, particularly in plant breeding. He is currently an Associate Researcher at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (Pawe Agricultural Research Center), working on sorghum, finger millet, maize, and tef breeding programs since September 2024. Previously, Birkneh worked as an Associate Researcher for sorghum and finger millet breeding (2022–2024) and as Assistant Researcher I and II from 2018 to 2021. He began his career as a Junior Researcher in 2016 and later worked as a Junior Expert in field crop production and irrigation agronomy in 2015-2016. 🌱🔬

Education & Training 🎓

Birkneh Kuru Dosegnaw holds a Master’s degree (MSc) in Plant Breeding and Genetics from Debre Markos University, Ethiopia (2019-2021). His studies covered subjects like Agricultural Statistics, Plant Breeding Methods, Population Genetics, Crop Agronomy, Seed Science, and Evolutionary Biology. Prior to that, he earned a Bachelor’s degree (BSc) in Plant Science from Wollo University (2012-2014), where he focused on research methods, genetics, plant breeding, crop production, and seed technology. These educational foundations have equipped him with a solid understanding of plant science and breeding for agricultural advancement. 🌿📚

Research Focus

Birkneh Kuru Dosegnaw’s research primarily focuses on plant breeding and crop genetics with an emphasis on improving the yield stability and genotype-environment interactions of finger millet. His recent work, published in Field Crops Research, investigates the performance of finger millet genotypes under varying environmental conditions using statistical analysis methods like AMMI, GGE, and MTSI. His studies contribute to enhancing crop resilience and sustainability in humid lowland areas of Ethiopia. Through his work, he aims to optimize crop productivity and develop varieties that perform well across diverse environments. 🌱📊

 

Publication Top Notes

Genotype X environment interaction and yield stability of finger millet (Eleusine Coracana L.) genotypes based on AMMI, GGE and MTSI analysis in humid lowland areas of Ethiopia

 

 

 

Muhammad Waqar Khan | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Waqar Khan | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Waqar Khan, University of Swat, Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Waqar Khan 🧬 is a Pakistani geneticist with expertise in soybean transformation and genetic diversity. He earned his PhD in Genetics from Henan University, China (2019-2023), and has a solid academic background with an MPhil and MSc in Genetics from Hazara University, Pakistan. His research focuses on genetic diversity, plant breeding, and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. Dr. Khan has published multiple studies, including on soybean hybrids and genetic resistance in rice. He is an active reviewer for Elsevier’s Horticulture Plants journal. Additionally, Dr. Khan is experienced in molecular lab techniques and bioinformatics software. 🌱🔬📚

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Educational Background

Dr. Muhammad Waqar Khan holds an impressive academic background in genetics and related fields. He completed his PhD in Genetics at Henan University, China (2019-2023), where he focused on soybean transformation. He also holds an MPhil in Genetics (2008-2012) and an MSc in Genetics (2005-2008) from Hazara University, Pakistan. Dr. Khan’s undergraduate studies were in Botany, Zoology, and Chemistry at the University of Malakand, Pakistan (2002-2005). Additionally, he pursued a B.Ed. in Education (2011-2012) from Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad. His diverse academic journey reflects his dedication to both research and education. 📚🌱

 

 

Professional Experience

Dr. Muhammad Waqar Khan has a diverse professional background in both education and research. He has five years of teaching and administrative experience at a school (2014-2019), where he honed his leadership and organizational skills. Additionally, he gained valuable research experience as a research intern in the Department of Genetics at Hazara University, Mansehra, Pakistan, for one year. This combination of teaching expertise and hands-on research experience has equipped Dr. Khan with a strong foundation in academia, making significant contributions to both educational and scientific communities. 📚👩‍🔬

 

 

Professional Skills and Business Ventures

Dr. Muhammad Waqar Khan possesses a wide range of professional skills and business expertise. He has significant experience in school administration and curriculum development, where he played a pivotal role in shaping educational frameworks. Additionally, Dr. Khan is passionate about honeybee keeping and management 🐝, using his knowledge to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices. He is also skilled in poultry (layer) keeping and management 🐔, ensuring the healthy and efficient operation of poultry farms. These diverse skills reflect his versatility in both academic and entrepreneurial ventures. 🌱📈

 

 

Research Focus

Dr. Muhammad Waqar Khan’s research spans several areas within genetics, plant sciences, and agricultural biotechnology. His work includes genetic diversity studies in walnuts 🌳, the identification of bacterial blight resistance genes in rice 🌾, and advancements in soybean transformation techniques 🌱. His expertise also extends to environmental research, focusing on forest structure, biomass carbon potential, and ecological diversity 🌍. Furthermore, Dr. Khan has contributed to agricultural economics with research on the cherry marketing system 🍒. These diverse research interests showcase his interdisciplinary approach, combining genetics, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. 🌿

 

 

Publication Top Notes

  • Estimation of genetic diversity in walnut – 38 citations, 2010 🌰
  • Identification of bacterial blight resistance gene Xa7 in rice through STS marker – 15 citations, 2015 🌾
  • Evaluation of the forest structure, diversity, and biomass carbon potential in Guangxi, China – 8 citations, 2020 🌳
  • Cherry marketing system in Gilgit District, Northern Areas of Pakistan – 8 citations, 2008 🍒
  • Pulmonary Embolic Disease – 5 citations, 1965 💉
  • Generation and Assessment of Soybean Hybrids for High-Efficiency Agrobacterium-Mediated Transformation – 2024 📈
  • A Novel Solid Media-Free In-Planta Soybean Transformation Approach – 2024 🌱
  • Fluid leak Following Deep Midfacial Laceration – 2017 🩹

Ching-Mao Chang | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Ching-Mao Chang | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr Ching-Mao Chang, Division of Integrative Medicine, Center for Traditional Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Taiwan

Dr. Ching-Mao Chang is a renowned specialist in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and integrative medicine. He holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Medical Sciences from Chang Gung University and an M.D. in Chinese Medicine from China Medical University. Dr. Chang is the Director at Taipei Veterans General Hospital’s Division of Integrative Medicine and an Assistant Professor at National Yang-Ming University. His research focuses on Sjögren’s syndrome, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, migraines, and bioinformatics. He has received multiple awards for excellence in clinical teaching and research, including recognition from Taipei Veterans General Hospital and the Taiwan Chinese Medical Association. 🏅📚

Publication profile

google scholar

Education

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ching-Mao Chang earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Medical Sciences from Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan, from September 2011 to July 2017. He also completed his Master’s degree at Chang Gung University Graduate Institute of Taoyuan, Taiwan, in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) from September 2010 to August 2011. Dr. Chang holds an M.D. from China Medical University School of Chinese Medicine in Taichung, Taiwan, where he studied from September 2003 to June 2010. His academic background reflects his deep expertise in both Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine. 🏥🎓🌱

Employment Record

Dr. Ching-Mao Chang is an esteemed physician and academic currently serving as the Director of the Division of Integrative Medicine at the Center for Traditional Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, since July 2021. With extensive experience in traditional medicine, Dr. Chang’s career at the hospital began in December 2012 as a Resident Doctor, advancing to Chief Resident Doctor from July 2015 to December 2016. He then became an Attending Physician at the Center for Traditional Medicine in January 2017. Dr. Chang is committed to integrating traditional and modern medical practices to improve patient care. 🏥💊👨‍⚕️🌿

Awards

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ching-Mao Chang has earned numerous accolades throughout his distinguished career. Notably, he received the Taipei Veterans General Hospital Clinical Teaching Excellence Award in 2015 and 2020 🏅, as well as the Excellent Physician Award in 2018 and 2022 🏆. He has been honored with the Special Outstanding Paper Award by the Chinese Medicine Association of the Republic of China for several consecutive years (2017-2020) 📜. Dr. Chang also won the Best Teaching Attending Physician Award at Taipei Veterans General Hospital from 2017 to 2023 🎓. His scholarly contributions have been recognized with the Traditional Chinese Medicine Academic Achievement Award at the National Medicine Festival from 2016 to 2023 📚.

Publication top notes

Comparison of new pharmacologic agents with triptans for treatment of migraine: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Chinese Herbal Prescriptions for Osteoarthritis in Taiwan: Analysis of National Health Insurance Dataset

Characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine use in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in Taiwan: a nationwide population-based study

Complementary Chinese herbal medicine therapy improves survival of patients with pancreatic cancer in Taiwan: a nationwide population-based cohort study

The Core Pattern Analysis on Chinese Herbal Medicine for Sjögren’s syndrome: A Nationwide Population-Based Study

A Clinical Study of Integrating Acupuncture and Western Medicine in Treating Patients with Parkinson’s Disease

Long COVID and long chain fatty acids (LCFAs): Psychoneuroimmunity implication of omega-3 LCFAs in delayed consequences of COVID-19

Conclusion 🏅

Dr. Ching-Mao Chang’s robust research portfolio, combined with his teaching, clinical contributions, and awards, makes him an excellent candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work on integrative medicine, particularly combining Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern clinical practices, shows exceptional innovation and dedication to improving patient care. His ongoing projects and numerous accolades highlight the significant impact he has made in both the academic and clinical communities.

Tesfu Tujuba | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Tesfu Tujuba | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher,  Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute,  Ethiopia

Tesfu Fekensa Tujuba (Ph.D.) is an accomplished Ethiopian researcher specializing in Agricultural Technology and Biotechnology, with a focus on Animal Biodiversity. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Molise, Italy, and has extensive experience leading biodiversity research. As Director of the Animal Biodiversity Directorate at the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, Tesfu has contributed to various research projects and publications. His leadership in biodiversity conservation, alongside his academic background, makes him a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

 

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education Background 

Tesfu Fekensa Tujuba holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Technology and Biotechnology with a focus on Animal Biodiversity from the University of Molise, Italy, awarded in 2020. He also earned an M.Sc. in Biology, specializing in Agricultural Entomology, from Addis Ababa University in 2011. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Education in Biology from Dilla University, Ethiopia, in 2002. This solid educational foundation equips him with the necessary expertise to contribute significantly to the field of agricultural research and biodiversity.

Professional Experiences

Tesfu Fekensa Tujuba has extensive professional experience in biodiversity research and education. Currently, he serves as the Director of the Animal Biodiversity Directorate at the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, where he leads initiatives in animal biodiversity conservation. Previously, he held positions at the University of Molise and various capacities within the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, including team leader roles in wild animals biodiversity. His academic journey includes significant contributions to teaching and research, further enhancing his expertise in the field.

Research Contributions

Tesfu Fekensa Tujuba has made significant research contributions in the field of agricultural biodiversity, particularly in Lepidoptera studies. His publications, including works on ecological impacts and species assessment, showcase his expertise and commitment to advancing knowledge in this area. Notably, two newly discovered moth species have been dedicated to him, highlighting his influence in entomological research. Additionally, his participation in various national and international conferences demonstrates his active engagement in promoting biodiversity conservation and sharing valuable insights within the scientific community.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Tesfu Fekensa Tujuba has made significant contributions to the field of agricultural biodiversity, recognized through multiple accolades. Notably, he has had two new species of moths named in his honor: Epichoristodes fekensae (2019) and Prasinocyma tujubai (2023). His published research, including studies on Lepidoptera diversity in Ethiopia, has been featured in esteemed journals, further showcasing his dedication and impact in the scientific community. These achievements underline his commitment to advancing biodiversity research and education.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tesfu Fekensa Tujuba exemplifies the qualities sought in a candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His extensive academic qualifications, significant research contributions, and leadership roles in biodiversity highlight his commitment to advancing knowledge in agricultural technology and animal biodiversity. With a proven track record of impactful publications and active participation in professional societies, Tesfu stands out as a dedicated researcher whose work contributes meaningfully to both local and global scientific communities.

Publication Top Notes  

  • Lepidoptera as a Tool for the Assessment of Human Disturbance Impacting Ecological and Taxonomic Diversity in the Choke Mountains, EthiopiaAfrican Zoology, 2023 📄 (Cited by 2)
  • Review of the African golden-spotted genera Haplopacha and Dasychirinula (Lepidoptera, Lasiocampidae, Poecilocampinae)Acta Biologica Sibirica, 2024 📄 (Cited by 1)
  • Composition and Diversity of Bird Community in the Chemoga Wetland and the Associated Human-Modified Landscapes, East Gojjam, EthiopiaInternational Journal of Zoology, 2023 📄 (Cited by 0)
  • Phenotypic diversity between and within Harar and Ogaden cattle breeds in eastern Ethiopia: The first step for conservationGenetic Resources, 2023 📄 (Cited by 2)
  • Revision of the orbamia herbulot, 1966 group of genera with description of two new genera, ten new species, and two new subspecies (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Ennominae, Cassymini)ZooKeys, 2020 📄 (Cited by 7)
  • Lepidopteran biodiversity of Ethiopia: Current knowledge and future perspectivesZooKeys, 2019 📄 (Cited by 7)

ASSIENE AGAMOU JULIEN ARMEL | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Dr. ASSIENE AGAMOU JULIEN ARMEL | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer, University of Douala, Cameroon

Dr. Julien Armel Assiene Agamou is a dedicated lecturer at ENSET, University of Douala, specializing in Food Sciences-Nutrition and Food Biotechnology. His expertise lies in optimizing food production processes and developing functional foods to combat malnutrition. Driven by discipline and a strong team spirit, he actively contributes to nutritional education and community health initiatives in Cameroon.

Profile

Google Scholar

 

Education 📚

Dr. Assiene holds a Ph.D. in Food Sciences-Nutrition from ENSAI, University of Ngaoundéré, Cameroon. He completed his Master’s degree in Food Science and Nutrition and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Chemistry. His academic journey emphasizes the nutritional and functional properties of indigenous foods.

Experience 💼

His professional experience spans teaching roles at ENSET and other institutions, including practical work in Food Biochemistry and Food Microbiology. Dr. Assiene has managed projects focusing on the valorization of local food products and the development of nutrient-dense foods. He has also served as a stock manager and academic supervisor, contributing significantly to food science research.

Research Interests 🧪

Optimization of food production processes

Functional foods and their impact on nutrition

Biochemical and microbiological analyses

Food quality control and nutritional education

Awards 🏆

His contributions to food science and nutrition have been recognized through awards for academic excellence and research impact in Cameroon.

Publications

Assiené AJA, Fombang EN, Mbofung CMF. Particular benefits can be attributed to Moringa oleifera Lam leaves based on origin and stage of maturity, Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences, 2015.

Fombang EN, Assiéné AJA, Mbofung CMF. Incorporation of Ricinodendron heudolotii Meal into Blends of Wheat and Precooked Taro Flour for production of Nutrient Dense Biscuits, Indian Journal of Nutrition, 2016.

Assiené AJA, Fombang EN, Mbofung CMF. Nutritional potential and bioactive compounds of Moringa oleifera leaf powders, Cameroon Nutritional Science Society, 2017.

Assiené AJA, Fombang EN, Mbofung CMF. In vitro protein digestibility and iron bioavailability according to agro-ecological zone and stage of maturity of Moringa oleifera Lam leaves, Europeans Journal of Nutrition and Food Safety, 2020.