Assoc. Prof. Dr. Odunayo Olawuyi | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor, at University of Ibadan, Nigeria.

🌟 Odunayo Joseph Olawuyi is a distinguished scholar from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, specializing in Molecular Biology, Genetic Diversity, Phylogenetics, and Plant Conservation. With over a decade of post-doctoral experience in teaching, research, and academic administration, he holds multiple key positions, including Head of the Genetics and Molecular Biology Unit and Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Science. His research has led to over 100 peer-reviewed publications, numerous awards, and global recognition in scientific communities. His extensive collaborations span Africa, Asia, North America, and Europe, contributing to breakthroughs in crop improvement and genetic enhancement.

Professional Profile

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Education 🎓

Dr. Olawuyi obtained his B.Sc. in Microbiology (2000), M.Sc. in Botany (Genetics) (2004), and Ph.D. in Genetics and Molecular Biology (2013) from the University of Ibadan. He has also earned multiple professional certifications in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biomedical Engineering, and Data Science. His training includes specialized courses in genomic breeding, food security, and biodiversity restoration, acquired from prestigious institutions across Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Experience 💼

Currently, Dr. Olawuyi serves as Head of the Genetics and Molecular Biology Unit, Postgraduate Coordinator in the Department of Botany, and Sub-Dean (Biological & Earth Sciences) at the Faculty of Science, University of Ibadan. He has successfully coordinated the Biology Program across multiple faculties and actively participates in university senate committees. He has also held research fellowships at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T). His expertise extends to securing international grants as a co-investigator and leading research initiatives worldwide.

Research Interests 🌿

Dr. Olawuyi’s research focuses on Molecular Biology, Cytogenetics, Plant Biotechnology, Mutation and Marker-Assisted Breeding for Disease Resistance, and Stress Tolerance in crops. His work aims at enhancing crop traits and conservation through genetic diversity studies. He actively integrates genomics, bioinformatics, and biotechnology to develop sustainable agricultural solutions and improve global food security.

Awards & Recognitions 🏆

Dr. Olawuyi has received multiple awards for his contributions to scientific research, including the Best Poster Presentation at Tropentag 2020 in Germany. He has also been recognized with Certificates of Excellence for his reviewing contributions to high-impact journals like Elsevier, Taylor & Francis, Springer, and Wiley. His scholarly excellence has earned him several fellowships, including at IITA, IAR&T, and Qatar’s Institute of Agriculture for Soil and Water Research.

Top Noted Publications 📚

Dr. Olawuyi has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications in top scientific journals. Below are selected works:

• Role of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi as Biocontrol Agents Against Fusarium verticillioides Causing Ear Rot of Zea mays L. (Maize) (2018)

  • Publication: Current Plant Biology​Google Scholar

  • Citations: 71​Nature

  • Summary: This study investigates the potential of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in controlling Fusarium verticillioides, a pathogen responsible for ear rot in maize. The findings suggest that AMF can serve as effective biocontrol agents, reducing disease incidence and promoting plant health. ​Google Scholar+1ResearchGate+1

• Influence of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Fungi (AMF) on Drought Tolerance and Charcoal Rot Disease of Cowpea (2017)

  • Publication: Biotechnology Reports​

  • Citations: 65​

  • Summary: This research explores how AMF inoculation affects drought tolerance and resistance to charcoal rot disease in cowpea plants. Results indicate that AMF enhances both drought resistance and disease suppression, contributing to improved crop resilience. ​Google Scholar

• Microorganisms Causing Post-Harvest Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Fruit Decay in Nigeria (2016)

  • Publication: Scientia​

  • Citations: 58​Mendeley+2genbreedpublisher.com+2Nature+2

  • Summary: This study identifies and characterizes the microbial agents responsible for post-harvest decay in tomatoes in Nigeria. The research provides insights into the predominant pathogens affecting tomato shelf life and suggests management strategies to reduce post-harvest losses. ​Google Scholar

• Harnessing the Potentials of Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (VAM) Fungi to Plant Growth – A Review (2013)

  • Publication: International Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences and Technology​Google Scholar

  • Citations: 56​

  • Summary: This review paper discusses the role of VAM fungi in enhancing plant growth, particularly their symbiotic relationships with various crops. It highlights the benefits of VAM in nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and overall plant development. ​Google Scholar

• Gene Action, Heterosis, Correlation, and Regression Estimates in Developing Hybrid Cultivars in Maize (2015)

  • Publication: Tropical Agriculture​ResearchGate+5Google Scholar+5Mendeley+5

  • Citations: 48​genbreedpublisher.com

  • Summary: This research examines the genetic mechanisms underlying hybrid vigor (heterosis) in maize. The study provides valuable data on gene action and trait correlations, aiding in the development of high-yielding maize hybrids. ​Google Scholar

Conclusion

Dr. Odunayo Joseph Olawuyi is a highly qualified and accomplished researcher with an outstanding track record in genetics, molecular biology, and biotechnology. His global collaborations, research productivity, and leadership roles make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. To further enhance his profile, he could take on more principal investigator roles, increase industry impact, and publish in top-tier journals. However, given his achievements and contributions, he is well-deserving of the award.