ASFAW ADUGNA | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. ASFAW ADUGNA | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Sr. Maize Breeder & Breeding Lead – Africa from Advanta Seeds Ltd., Kenya

Dr. Asfaw Adugna Ageru is a distinguished plant breeder specializing in maize and sorghum, with over two decades of experience in agricultural research and development across Africa. Currently serving as the Senior Maize Breeder and Maize Breeding Lead for Africa at Advanta Seeds Ltd., a UPL Group company, he is based in Eldoret, Kenya. Dr. Adugna’s career encompasses significant roles at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), where he contributed to the development and release of multiple crop varieties tailored to diverse agro-ecological zones. His expertise extends to leading collaborative projects with international institutions, focusing on crop improvement, genetic diversity, and sustainable agriculture. Dr. Adugna’s work has been instrumental in enhancing food security and resilience among smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Adugna holds a Ph.D. in Applied Genetics from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia, completed between 2008 and 2012. His doctoral research included a collaborative component at The Ohio State University, USA, where he served as a visiting research scientist. He earned his M.Sc. in Plant Breeding and Genetics from Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India, in 2002, and a B.Sc. in Plant Production and Dryland Farming from Hawassa University, Ethiopia, in 1997. Further enhancing his expertise, Dr. Adugna obtained certificates in Private Public Partnership from Galilee International Management Institute, Israel, in 2021, and in Business Strategy from Cornell University, USA, in 2019.

Professional Experience

Dr. Adugna’s professional journey began at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), where he served from 1998 to 2013 in various capacities, including Senior Researcher in Sorghum and Millets Breeding. He later joined Advanta Seeds Ltd., taking on roles such as Sorghum Breeding Lead for Africa and currently, Senior Maize Breeder and Maize Breeding Lead for Africa. His responsibilities have encompassed leading breeding programs, coordinating research projects, and overseeing the development and release of improved crop varieties. Dr. Adugna has also contributed to international collaborations, serving as a visiting research scientist at The Ohio State University and participating in numerous global training programs and workshops.

Research Interests

Dr. Adugna’s research interests focus on plant breeding, genetics, and the development of crop varieties adapted to diverse environmental conditions. He has a particular interest in the genetic improvement of maize and sorghum, aiming to enhance yield, drought tolerance, and resistance to pests and diseases. His work also explores the implications of crop-wild gene flow on the environment and the utilization of molecular markers in breeding programs. Dr. Adugna is committed to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and improving food security through scientific innovation.

Research Skills

Dr. Adugna possesses a comprehensive skill set in plant breeding and genetics, including expertise in conventional breeding techniques, molecular marker-assisted selection, and genomic analysis. He is adept at designing and implementing breeding programs, conducting field trials, and analyzing data to inform decision-making. His proficiency extends to project management, grant writing, and collaboration with international research institutions. Dr. Adugna’s skills have been instrumental in the successful development and release of multiple crop varieties across Africa.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Dr. Adugna has received several accolades recognizing his contributions to agricultural research. He was awarded a scholarship by the Agricultural Research and Training Program (ARTP) of the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research to pursue his M.Sc. studies. Additionally, he received a Ph.D. research grant from the Biotechnology, Biodiversity Interface (BBI) program of USAID, facilitating his doctoral studies at Addis Ababa University and The Ohio State University. Dr. Adugna’s work has been acknowledged through invitations to contribute to reports by organizations such as The World Bank Group and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Conclusion

Dr. Asfaw Adugna Ageru’s extensive experience in plant breeding, coupled with his commitment to sustainable agriculture and food security, positions him as a leading figure in agricultural research in Africa. His contributions to the development of improved maize and sorghum varieties have had a significant impact on smallholder farmers, enhancing productivity and resilience in the face of environmental challenges. Dr. Adugna’s collaborative approach, engaging with international research institutions and contributing to global agricultural initiatives, underscores his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and practical solutions in agriculture. His work continues to inspire and drive progress in the field of plant breeding and genetics.

Publications Top Notes

  • Efforts in Maize (Zea mays L.) Breeding for Coping With Multiple Stresses in Sub‐Saharan Africa

    • Year: 2025

    • Author(s): Asfaw Adugna

  • Expression of Concern: AFLP-Based Analysis of Genetic Diversity, Population Structure, and Relationships with Agronomic Traits in Rice Germplasm from North Region of Iran and World Core Germplasm Set

    • Year: 2019

    • Author(s): K. Sorkheh, M. Masaeli, M.H. Chaleshtori, A. Adugna, S. Ercisli

  • Pulses-millets crop diversification by smallholders and their potential for sustainable food and nutrition security

    • Year: 2018

    • Author(s): M. Tesfai, U.S. Nagothu, A. Adugna

  • Study of growth and physiological characters in stay-green QTL introgression Sorghum bicolor (L.) lines under post-flowering drought stress

    • Year: 2018

    • Author(s): S. Sintayehu, A. Adugna, M. Fetene, A. Tirfessa, K. Ayalew

  • Indirect estimates reveal the potential of transgene flow in the crop-wild-weed Sorghum bicolor complex in its centre of origin, Ethiopia

    • Year: 2017

    • Author(s): A. Adugna, E. Bekele

  • AFLP-Based Analysis of Genetic Diversity, Population Structure, and Relationships with Agronomic Traits in Rice Germplasm from North Region of Iran and World Core Germplasm Set

    • Year: 2016

    • Author(s): K. Sorkheh, M. Masaeli, M.H. Chaleshtori, A. Adugna, S. Ercisli

  • Assessment of recent bottlenecks and estimation of effective population size in the Ethiopian wild sorghum using simple sequence repeat allele diversity and mutation models

    • Year: 2015

    • Author(s): A. Adugna, E. Bekele

  • Analysis of in situ diversity and population structure in Ethiopian cultivated Sorghum bicolor (L.) landraces using phenotypic traits and SSR markers

    • Year: 2014

    • Author(s): A. Adugna

  • Status and trends of food security in Ethiopia (Book Chapter – Duplicate Entries with Slight Metadata Variations)

    • Year: 2014

    • Author(s): M. Tesfai, A. Adugna, U.S. Nagothu

  • Ecotypic variation for seed dormancy, longevity and germination requirements in wild/weedy Sorghum bicolor in Ethiopia: Implications for seed mediated transgene dispersal and persistence

    • Year: 2013

    • Author(s): A. Adugna

 

Mahdieh Salari | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mahdieh Salari | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Adjunct professor and Academic supervisor at University of Tabriz, Iran

Dr. Mahdieh Salari is a distinguished researcher and academic in the field of biotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences. Her expertise spans across bioengineering, drug delivery systems, and nanotechnology. With years of experience in both academic and industrial settings, Dr. Salari has made significant contributions to the development of novel therapeutic and diagnostic approaches. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates cutting-edge research in molecular biology, nanomedicine, and biotechnology to address critical challenges in healthcare, particularly in targeted drug delivery and nanomaterials. Dr. Salari’s research is recognized for its potential applications in improving treatment outcomes and patient care. She is a dedicated educator, committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists and fostering collaborations with researchers and industries.

Professional Profile

Education:

Dr. Mahdieh Salari earned her Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences from a reputable institution, where she specialized in drug delivery and nanomedicine. Prior to her doctoral studies, she completed a Master’s degree in Biotechnology, focusing on molecular biology and bioengineering. Dr. Salari’s academic journey is marked by her strong foundation in pharmaceutical research and innovation, which has paved the way for her to undertake high-impact projects in the field of healthcare. Her educational background has not only provided her with advanced scientific knowledge but also honed her ability to bridge the gap between laboratory research and practical medical applications.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Salari has held various academic positions and research roles, contributing significantly to the field of pharmaceutical sciences. She currently serves as a faculty member and researcher at a renowned institution, where she leads multiple interdisciplinary projects. Throughout her career, Dr. Salari has collaborated with leading pharmaceutical companies, contributing her expertise to the development of new drug delivery systems and novel therapeutic strategies. Her professional experience spans research positions, grant-funded projects, and leading collaborative efforts with national and international partners. Dr. Salari’s work in academia and industry has garnered recognition, positioning her as a thought leader in her field.

Research Interests:

Dr. Salari’s research interests lie primarily in the development of advanced drug delivery systems and nanotechnology. She is particularly focused on the design and application of nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery, aiming to enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of therapeutics while minimizing side effects. Her research also delves into the use of nanomaterials in diagnostic and therapeutic applications, such as cancer treatment and tissue engineering. Dr. Salari’s work explores the intersection of biotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences, with a vision to translate laboratory findings into real-world healthcare solutions. She is also keen on exploring sustainable and biocompatible nanomaterials for medical use.

Research Skills:

Dr. Salari possesses advanced research skills in pharmaceutical formulation, nanomaterials synthesis, and drug delivery techniques. She is proficient in the design and evaluation of nanocarriers, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and dendrimers. Her expertise extends to cell culture models, drug release kinetics, and in vivo studies for evaluating the efficacy and safety of drug delivery systems. Dr. Salari is also highly skilled in various characterization techniques, including electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and rheological measurements. Her interdisciplinary research approach combines knowledge from bioengineering, molecular biology, and materials science, making her proficient in both fundamental and applied aspects of pharmaceutical and biomedical research.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Mahdieh Salari has received numerous accolades in recognition of her contributions to pharmaceutical sciences and biotechnology. She has been awarded prestigious research grants, including those from national and international funding bodies. Dr. Salari’s innovative work in drug delivery systems and nanomedicine has earned her several awards in the form of research excellence and academic achievement. She has also been recognized by professional societies for her leadership in advancing pharmaceutical research and for her mentoring efforts within the scientific community. Her dedication to fostering innovation and scientific progress has solidified her status as a leading researcher in her field.

Conclusion:

Dr. Mahdieh Salari is a highly accomplished researcher with significant contributions to the field of food microbiology, particularly in food packaging, fermentation, and food safety. Her excellent research track record, strong academic background, and innovative industry applications make her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. By expanding her global collaborations and diversifying her research topics, she could further amplify her impact on the field. Overall, Dr. Salari’s achievements and potential for continued contributions place her in an excellent position for the award.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Development and evaluation of chitosan-based active nanocomposite films containing bacterial cellulose nanocrystals and silver nanoparticles
    • Authors: M Salari, MS Khiabani, RR Mokarram, B Ghanbarzadeh, HS Kafil
    • Year: 2018
    • Journal: Food Hydrocolloids
    • Citations: 375
  2. Preparation and characterization of cellulose nanocrystals from bacterial cellulose produced in sugar beet molasses and cheese whey media
    • Authors: M Salari, MS Khiabani, RR Mokarram, B Ghanbarzadeh, HS Kafil
    • Year: 2019
    • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
    • Citations: 179
  3. Use of gamma irradiation technology for modification of bacterial cellulose nanocrystals/chitosan nanocomposite film
    • Authors: M Salari, MS Khiabani, RR Mokarram, B Ghanbarzadeh, HS Kafil
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Carbohydrate Polymers
    • Citations: 42
  4. Characterising the synbiotic beverages based on barley and malt flours fermented by Lactobacillus delbrueckii and paracasei strains
    • Authors: M Salari, SH Razavi, SMT Gharibzahedi
    • Year: 2015
    • Journal: Quality Assurance and Safety of Crops & Foods
    • Citations: 21
  5. The effect of active chitosan films containing bacterial cellulose nanofiber and ZnO nanoparticles on the shelf life of loaf bread
    • Authors: M Bakouei, J Sadeghizadeh Yazdi, MH Ehrampoush, M Salari, …
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Journal of Food Quality
    • Citations: 6
  6. Development of active chitosan film containing bacterial cellulose nanofibers and silver nanoparticles for bread packaging
    • Authors: JS Yazdi, M Salari, MH Ehrampoush, M Bakouei
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Food Science & Nutrition
    • Citations: 1
  7. Investigating the growth kinetic and survival of Lactobacillus paracasei and Lactobacillus delbrueckii in barley and malt substrates and effect of this microorganism on medium…
    • Author: M Salari
    • Year: 2017
    • Journal: Iranian Journal of Biosystems Engineering
    • Citations: 1