National Research Centre - Egypt
AUTHOR PROFILE
SCOPUS
ORCID
GOOGLE SCHOLAR
SUMMARY
Mohamed Maher Saad Saleh is an Emeritus Research Professor and Former Head of the Pomology Department at the National Research Centre, Egypt. With decades of experience in horticultural science, he has contributed significantly to the propagation, cultivation, and postharvest management of fruit crops. His extensive academic and field-based research has made notable advancements in improving fruit yield, quality, and sustainability under various agricultural conditions. Saleh is highly regarded for his leadership in national projects, scholarly publications, and as a mentor to postgraduate students in horticultural sciences.
EDUCATION
Mohamed Maher Saad Saleh earned his B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. from the Faculty of Agriculture, Ain Shams University. His master’s thesis focused on the effect of planting distance on bananas, while his doctoral research explored the impact of nitrogen fertilizers on banana growth and productivity. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his lifelong contributions to pomology, where he applied scientific principles to practical agricultural challenges. His formal education was strongly complemented by his participation in specialized training programs in scientific imaging and research methodology.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Professor Saleh has served the National Research Centre since 1982 in various academic and research roles, including Assistant Researcher, Researcher, and eventually, Head of the Pomology Department (2010–2013). He was appointed Emeritus Professor in 2016, reflecting his distinguished career. Throughout his tenure, he led and contributed to major national and international agricultural projects, particularly in fruit crop development, climate adaptation, and sustainable farming techniques. His expertise extends to teaching, supervising graduate research, and guiding training programs in horticultural practices across Egypt.
RESEARCH INTEREST
His primary research interest revolves around the propagation, production, postharvest handling, and physiological improvement of fruit crops. Special attention is given to bananas, citrus, grapes, olives, mangoes, and date palms. His work integrates traditional practices with modern innovations such as biofertilizers, nanotechnology, and sustainable irrigation to optimize yield and quality. He has also contributed to molecular studies for cultivar identification and genetic improvement. Professor Saleh’s interdisciplinary approach merges field trials with laboratory research to develop practical solutions for Egyptian and regional horticulture.
AWARD AND HONOR
Professor Saleh’s illustrious career is highlighted by several honors, including memberships in prestigious scientific committees such as the Permanent Scientific Committee for Agricultural Sciences and the Basic and Applied Research Ethics Committee. He has been an active contributor and organizer of key national and international conferences. His editorial responsibilities in numerous peer-reviewed journals underscore his authority in the field. His role as a scientific supervisor for international doctoral research also demonstrates his global recognition and academic influence.
RESEARCH SKILL
Professor Saleh’s research skills include expertise in experimental design, soil and plant nutrition, physiological analysis, and the application of biotechnology in fruit crop improvement. He is proficient in advanced agronomic practices, including foliar nutrition, growth regulator usage, irrigation optimization, and plant tissue culture. His analytical capabilities extend to evaluating genetic markers and postharvest treatments. His ability to combine fieldwork with scientific methodology has resulted in numerous actionable outcomes for Egypt’s agricultural sector.
PUBLICATIONS
- Title: Effect of Nitrogen and Potassium fertilization on Productivity and Fruit Quality of 'Crimson Seedless' Grapes
Authors: A. El-Razek, D. Treutter, M.M.S. Saleh, M. El-Shammaa,
Journal/Conference: First Symposium on Horticulture in Europe, 17-20 February 2008, Vienna, Austria.
- Title: Minimizing the quantity of mineral nitrogen fertilizers on grapevine by using humic acid, organic and biofertilizers
Authors: A. Eman, A. El-Monem, M. Saleh, E. Mostafa
Journal: Research Journal of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, Vol. 4 (1), pp. 46-50, 2008.
- Title: Response of Balady mandarin trees to girdling and potassium sprays under sandy soil conditions
Authors: E.A.M. Mostafa, M.M.S. Saleh
Journal: Research Journal of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, Vol. 2 (3), pp. 137-141, 2006
- Title: Yield and fruit quality of Florida prince peach trees as affected by foliar and soil applications of Humic acid
Authors: E.A. El-Razek, A.S.E. Abd-Allah, M.M.S. Saleh
- Title: The beneficial effect of minimizing mineral nitrogen fertilization on Washington navel orange trees by using organic and biofertilizers
Authors: M.M. Abd El-Migeed, M.M.S. Saleh, E.A. Mostafa
Journal: World Journal of Agricultural Sciences, Vol. 3 (1), pp. 80-85, 2007.
CONCLUSION
Mohamed Maher Saad Saleh exemplifies the ideal blend of scientific rigor and practical application in agricultural research. His lifelong dedication to pomology, combined with his leadership, prolific publication record, and mentorship, has positioned him as a pillar in Egyptian agricultural development. His influence extends beyond academia into policy-making and sustainable farming practices. As he continues to contribute as an Emeritus Professor, his legacy shapes future research directions and the next generation of agricultural scientists.