Dario Gaudioso | Seed Science | Excellence in Innovation Award

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Dr. Dario Gaudioso | Seed Science | Excellence in Innovation Award

PhD researcher | Università degli studi di Firenze | Italy

Dr. Dario Gaudioso is a distinguished researcher specializing in molecular plant pathology, with expertise in plant health, quarantine pathogens, and molecular biology. His research primarily focuses on developing rapid, economical, and high-throughput diagnostic strategies for the detection of quarantine plant pathogens, using Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens as a model organism. He also explores innovative, eco-friendly biotechnological approaches for sustainable crop protection and microbial interactions in leguminous plants. Currently serving as a PhD researcher at the Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Forestry Science and Technology (DAGRI), University of Florence, Dr. Gaudioso also contributes as a Scientific Communicator and OpenLab Operator, bridging science and public understanding. His prior work as a Research Fellow at the same institution strengthened his contributions to applied plant pathology and diagnostic microbiology. Among his significant scientific outputs are publications such as Isolation of a Novel Microplastic-Degrading Bacterial Strain in Chemosphere (2025), Fly High: Volatile Organic Compounds for the Early Detection of Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens in Agronomy (2025), and Exploiting Bacterial Pigmentation for Non-Destructive Detection of Seed-Borne Pathogens in Sensors (2024). He has also contributed to the book Innovative Detection of the Quarantine Plant Pathogen Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens published in Plant Pathology (2022), and to reviews on multidrug transporters in Microorganisms (2024), highlighting his diverse contributions across microbiology and plant science. As an active member of prestigious organizations, including the British Society for Plant Pathology, the Italian Society of Plant Pathology, and the Italian Association for Plant Protection, he continuously engages with the international scientific community. His research outputs integrate molecular diagnostics, sensor technologies, and microbial ecology to advance sustainable agriculture and improve global plant biosecurity frameworks. Through his innovative and interdisciplinary approach, Dr. Gaudioso envisions a future where sustainable diagnostic solutions enable effective management of plant diseases, safeguard agricultural biodiversity, and support resilient food systems. His scientific vision emphasizes strengthening global plant health surveillance, fostering early detection methods that reduce economic losses and environmental impact, and promoting a collaborative framework that bridges science, technology, and sustainability to address emerging agricultural challenges.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Gaudioso, D. (2025). Isolation of a novel microplastic-degrading bacterial strain: A promising agent for low-density polyethylene remediation. Chemosphere. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2025.144400

2. Gaudioso, D. (2025). On the effectiveness of ozone treatments: A silver bullet for plant health? Agronomy, 15(3), 567. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15030567

3. Gaudioso, D. (2025). Fly high: Volatile organic compounds for the early detection of the seed-borne pathogen Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens. Agronomy, 15(2), 497. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020497

4. Gaudioso, D. (2024). Exploiting bacterial pigmentation for non-destructive detection of seed-borne pathogens by using photoacoustic techniques. Sensors, 24(23), 7616. https://doi.org/10.3390/s24237616

5. Gaudioso, D. (2024). Multidrug and toxic compound extrusion transporters: Ubiquitous multifaceted proteins in microbes, plants, and their interactions. Microorganisms, 12(12), 2433. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12122433

Dr. Nagarathna TK | Plant Physiology | Excellence in Research Award

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Dr. Nagarathna TK | Plant Physiology | Excellence in Research Award

Professor | University of Agricultural Sciences | India

Dr. T.K. Nagarathna currently serves as Professor of Crop Physiology and Scientific Officer to the Vice Chancellor at the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, where she also coordinates and heads the Project Planning and Monitoring Cell. She holds a B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Agriculture and a Ph.D. in Crop Physiology from the same university, followed by a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the University of Florida, USA, under the prestigious Raman Fellowship Award. With a prolific academic portfolio, her research primarily focuses on crop modeling, stress physiology, plant variety protection, and climate resilience in agriculture. She has authored over 130 scientific publications, including 53 refereed journal articles, multiple technical bulletins, research notes, conference proceedings, and book chapters, alongside two published books—Protection and Registration of Plant Varieties in India (2023) and Plant Growth & Stress Physiology (2024). A seasoned research leader, Dr. Nagarathna has spearheaded numerous national projects funded by the PPV&FR Authority, RKVY, and other government agencies, addressing hybrid seed production, DUS characterization, molecular-assisted selection, and enhancement of oilseed and cereal crop productivity. Her academic mentorship includes guiding postgraduate and doctoral students while contributing to advisory committees across agricultural disciplines. An active contributor to institutional development, she has facilitated the establishment of key research infrastructures worth several crores, including Seed Health Testing Laboratories and advanced molecular facilities. Her international engagements span training and collaborative programs across Germany, the USA, the Philippines, and Turkey, emphasizing global integration in agricultural innovation. Recognized for her scientific excellence, she is the recipient of honors such as the IRRI-India Resident Fellowship and multiple national research awards. Dr. Nagarathna further extends her influence through significant editorial contributions, notably as Chief Editor of the Plant Variety Journal of India, a bilingual national journal published by the PPV&FR Authority under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. She has organized and led numerous international webinars, workshops, and expert committee meetings, fostering advancements in genome editing, DUS guidelines, and plant breeders’ rights. A life member of several prestigious scientific societies, she remains a driving force in shaping agricultural policy, research innovation, and farmer-centric technology dissemination in India’s crop science landscape. She has 27 citations from 4 publications, with an h-index of 4.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Shashi, B. K., Sharan, S., & Hittalamani, S. (2007). Micronutrient composition, antinutritional factors, and bioaccessibility of iron in different finger millet (Eleusine coracana) genotypes. Karnataka Journal of Agricultural Science, 20(3), 583–585.

2. Nagarathna, M., Shankar, A. G., & Udayakumar. (2010). Assessment of genetic variation in zinc acquisition and transport to seed in diversified germplasm lines of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Journal of Agricultural Technology, 6(1), 171–178.

3. Nagarathna, T. M., Shadakshari, Y. G., & Ramanappa. (2011). Molecular analysis of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) genotypes for high oleic acid using microsatellite markers. Helia, 34, 63–68.

4. Nagarathna, Y. G., Prasad, T. G., Bagyaraj, D. J., & Shadakshari. (2007). Effect of vesicular arbuscular mycorrhiza and phosphorus levels on growth and water use efficiency in sunflower at different soil moisture status. International Journal of Agricultural Technology, 3(2), 221–229.

5. Nagarathna, K. T., Shadakshari, Y. G., Parama, V. R. R., & Jagadish. (2012). Examination of root characters, isotope discrimination, physiological and morphological traits and their relationship used to identify the drought tolerant sunflower. Helia, 35, 1–8.

Dr. Lungelo Given Buthelezi | Plant Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Lungelo Given Buthelezi | Plant Science | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | University of Zululand | South Africa

Dr. Lungelo Given Buthelezi is a dedicated Plant Scientist and Lecturer in the Department of Agriculture at the University of Zululand, South Africa, where he specializes in Plant Sciences and supervises both Honours and Master’s students. He obtained his PhD and MSc in Botany, as well as a BSc in Agriculture (Agronomy) from the University of Zululand, supported by additional training in DNA sequencing, PCR, and data science through institutions including DNABiotec and Harvard University. His research focuses on plant diversity, indigenous crop variation, metabolomics, molecular genetics, and nutritional profiling, with a strong emphasis on conserving and utilizing indigenous genetic resources for sustainable food security. Dr. Buthelezi has authored and co-authored several impactful publications in high-ranking journals such as Biodiversitas, Plants, Food Chemistry: X, and the Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science, highlighting genetic, nutritional, and phytochemical variations in crops like Lagenaria siceraria. He has also contributed as a peer reviewer for international journals including South African Journal of Botany, Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution, and BMC Plant Biology. His academic career is marked by innovative teaching methods, curriculum development, and significant student mentorship, ensuring high pass rates even during the challenges of remote learning. Beyond teaching and research, Dr. Buthelezi has been actively engaged in community projects, knowledge exchange on indigenous plants, and collaborations with the Agricultural Research Council and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. He has served on the Department of Agriculture Research Committee and the University of Zululand Human Research Ethics Committee, where he provides expert guidance on research and ethics in science. Recognized for his scholarly contributions, leadership in academia, and dedication to advancing plant sciences, Dr. Buthelezi continues to strengthen the link between indigenous knowledge systems, modern biotechnology, and sustainable agriculture.

Profile: Google Scholar

Publications

1. Buthelezi, L. G., Mavengahama, S., & Ntuli, N. R. (2019). Morphological variation and heritability studies of Lagenaria siceraria landraces from northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Biodiversitas Journal of Biological Diversity.

2. Buthelezi, L. G., Mavengahama, S., Sibiya, J., & Ntuli, N. R. (2023). Variation in shoot, peduncle and fruit growth of Lagenaria siceraria landraces. Plants.

3. Buthelezi, L. G., Mavengahama, S., Sibiya, J., Mchunu, C. N., & Ntuli, N. R. (2024). Phytochemical composition of Lagenaria siceraria fruits from KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo, South Africa. Food Chemistry: X.

4. Buthelezi, L. G., Mavengahama, S., Sibiya, J., Mchunu, C. N., & Ntuli, N. R. (2024). Nutritional variation on sequentially harvested shoots and fruits of Lagenaria siceraria landraces. Plants

5. Buthelezi, L. G., Mavengahama, S., Sibiya, J., Mchunu, C. N., & Ntuli, N. R. (2023). Diversity in fruit phytochemical composition among Lagenaria siceraria landraces. Preprints.

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Dr. Lungelo Given Buthelezi | Plant Science | Young Researcher Award

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Dr. Lungelo Given Buthelezi | Plant Science | Young Researcher Award

Lecturer | University of Zululand | South Africa

Dr. Lungelo Given Buthelezi is a dedicated Plant Scientist and Lecturer in the Department of Agriculture at the University of Zululand, South Africa, where he specializes in Plant Sciences and supervises both Honours and Master’s students. He obtained his PhD and MSc in Botany, as well as a BSc in Agriculture (Agronomy) from the University of Zululand, supported by additional training in DNA sequencing, PCR, and data science through institutions including DNABiotec and Harvard University. His research focuses on plant diversity, indigenous crop variation, metabolomics, molecular genetics, and nutritional profiling, with a strong emphasis on conserving and utilizing indigenous genetic resources for sustainable food security. Dr. Buthelezi has authored and co-authored several impactful publications in high-ranking journals such as Biodiversitas, Plants, Food Chemistry: X, and the Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science, highlighting genetic, nutritional, and phytochemical variations in crops like Lagenaria siceraria. He has also contributed as a peer reviewer for international journals including South African Journal of Botany, Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution, and BMC Plant Biology. His academic career is marked by innovative teaching methods, curriculum development, and significant student mentorship, ensuring high pass rates even during the challenges of remote learning. Beyond teaching and research, Dr. Buthelezi has been actively engaged in community projects, knowledge exchange on indigenous plants, and collaborations with the Agricultural Research Council and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. He has served on the Department of Agriculture Research Committee and the University of Zululand Human Research Ethics Committee, where he provides expert guidance on research and ethics in science. Recognized for his scholarly contributions, leadership in academia, and dedication to advancing plant sciences, Dr. Buthelezi continues to strengthen the link between indigenous knowledge systems, modern biotechnology, and sustainable agriculture. He has 21 citations from  across 11 publications, with an h-index of 2.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Buthelezi, L. G., Mavengahama, S., & Ntuli, N. R. (2019). Morphological variation and heritability studies of Lagenaria siceraria landraces from northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Biodiversitas Journal of Biological Diversity.

2. Buthelezi, L. G., Mavengahama, S., Sibiya, J., & Ntuli, N. R. (2023). Variation in shoot, peduncle and fruit growth of Lagenaria siceraria landraces. Plants.

3. Buthelezi, L. G., Mavengahama, S., Sibiya, J., Mchunu, C. N., & Ntuli, N. R. (2024). Phytochemical composition of Lagenaria siceraria fruits from KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo, South Africa. Food Chemistry: X.

4. Buthelezi, L. G., Mavengahama, S., Sibiya, J., Mchunu, C. N., & Ntuli, N. R. (2024). Nutritional variation on sequentially harvested shoots and fruits of Lagenaria siceraria landraces. Plants

5. Buthelezi, L. G., Mavengahama, S., Sibiya, J., Mchunu, C. N., & Ntuli, N. R. (2023). Diversity in fruit phytochemical composition among Lagenaria siceraria landraces. Preprints.

.

Mather Khan | Food Security and Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mather Khan | Food Security and Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Scientist at University of Missouri | United States

Dr. Mather A Khan is a distinguished Plant Molecular Biologist with over a decade of research expertise focused on metal homeostasis, crop nutrition, and abiotic stress adaptation. His work integrates advanced molecular techniques, yeast systems, and multi-omics approaches to uncover plant-environment interactions. Dr. Khan has led independent research programs and published extensively in high-impact journals, contributing significantly to plant stress biology. He emphasizes sustainable agricultural solutions, aligning his research with global food security goals. As a mentor and innovator, Dr. Khan supports interdisciplinary collaboration to advance scientific understanding and develop practical solutions to agricultural challenges.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar 

Education

Dr. Mather A Khan completed his Ph.D. in Biotechnology from Hamdard University, New Delhi, India, where his thesis focused on Fusarium wilt resistance in chickpea using sulfur and microbial consortium. He earned a Master of Science in Biotechnology from Barkatullah University, Bhopal, India, with research on the chemopreventive role of green tea at CNCI, Kolkata. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biosciences from the University of Calcutta, India. Additionally, Dr. Khan completed a specialized Certificate Program in Preparing Tomorrow's Leaders for Science at the University of Missouri, USA.

Professional Experience

Dr. Khan is currently a Scientist at the University of Missouri, where he pioneers integrative molecular and systems biology research to decode iron sensing mechanisms in plants. He previously served as Senior Scientist at Heinrich Heine University in Germany, where he led projects to enhance iron bioavailability in legumes and developed innovative protein interaction pipelines. As a Research Scientist and Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Missouri, he assembled Arabidopsis transcription factor libraries and advanced single-cell proteomics. His contributions include mentoring over 15 researchers and coordinating high-profile scientific discussions, with a strong focus on precision nutrient uptake and sustainable crop engineering.

Research Interest

Dr. Khan’s research focuses on understanding plant nutrient homeostasis, particularly iron sensing, uptake, and transport mechanisms. He employs multi-omics strategies, high-throughput yeast one-hybrid and yeast two-hybrid platforms, and CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing to uncover molecular interactions regulating plant responses to abiotic stress. His work extends to developing tissue-specific expression systems for trait improvement and engineering advanced metal transporters to enhance nutrient use efficiency in crops. Dr. Khan emphasizes integrating transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic data to reveal complex regulatory networks. His research contributes to sustainable agriculture by improving crop resilience and nutritional quality in the face of global environmental challenges.

Awards and Honor

Dr. Khan has received multiple honors for his contributions to plant molecular biology, including being a panelist for the National Science Foundation’s Division of Biological Infrastructure in 2024 and 2025. He was recognized as a Plantae Fellow by the American Society of Plant Biologists and awarded the Douglas D Randall Young Scientists Development Fund. His scientific impact is further validated by travel awards and participation in international conferences. Dr. Khan’s pioneering work in iron sensing and biofortification has earned him invitations to prestigious scientific meetings and key roles in research panels, reflecting his leadership and expertise in advancing global agricultural science.

Research Skill

Dr. Khan possesses a comprehensive technical skill set in molecular and synthetic biology, including advanced cloning techniques, vector design, and genome engineering with CRISPR-Cas9. His expertise extends to yeast system manipulation for functional gene analysis, protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions using Y1H/Y2H, Co-IP, and BiFC. In plant systems, he conducts genetic crossings, transient expression studies, and elemental analysis. He is proficient in multi-omics techniques such as RNA-seq, proteomics, metabolomics, and ionomics, alongside advanced microscopy and bioinformatics for data analysis. Dr. Khan integrates computational tools (R, Python) for data visualization and analysis, promoting innovative, data-driven solutions in plant molecular research.

Publications

Dr. Khan has an extensive publication record, contributing to high-impact journals in plant biology and molecular sciences. His recent work includes elucidating the role of bHLH35 in plant stress responses and age-dependent iron deficiency responses in Arabidopsis. He has co-authored studies on secondary metabolite biosynthesis, sustainability research comparing mung bean growth conditions, and molecular transport mechanisms in plants. Dr. Khan’s publications extend from mechanistic studies of phloem transporters to innovative methods in proteomics and metabolomics. His research is well cited, contributing substantially to the scientific understanding of plant nutrition, stress adaptation, and molecular biofortification strategies worldwide.

Khan, M. A., Castro-Guerrero, N., & Mendoza-Cozatl, D. G. (2014). Moving toward a precise nutrition: Preferential loading of seeds with essential nutrients over non-essential toxic elements. Frontiers in Plant Science, 5, 51.

Khan, M. A., Castro-Guerrero, N. A., McInturf, S. A., Nguyen, N. T., Dame, A. N., & Mendoza-Cozatl, D. G. (2018). Changes in iron availability in Arabidopsis are rapidly sensed in the leaf vasculature and impaired sensing leads to opposite transcriptional programs in leaves and roots. Plant, Cell & Environment, 41(10), 2263-2276.

Ram, M., Abdin, M. Z., Khan, M. A., & Jha, P. (2011). HPTLC fingerprint analysis: A quality control for authentication of herbal phytochemicals. High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC), 105–116.

Ram, M., Khan, M. A., Jha, P., Khan, S., Kiran, U., Ahmad, M. M., & Javed, S. (2010). HMG-CoA reductase limits artemisinin biosynthesis and accumulation in Artemisia annua L. plants. Acta Physiologiae Plantarum, 32(5), 859-866.

Jha, P., Ram, M., Khan, M. A., Kiran, U., & Abdin, M. Z. (2011). Impact of organic manure and chemical fertilizers on artemisinin content and yield in Artemisia annua L. Industrial Crops and Products, 33(2), 296–301.

Conclusion

Dr. Mather A Khan is a visionary researcher dedicated to advancing plant molecular biology for sustainable agriculture. His interdisciplinary approach bridges molecular techniques and systems biology to address critical issues in crop nutrition and abiotic stress resilience. With a passion for scientific discovery and mentorship, Dr. Khan continues to innovate high-throughput methodologies, paving the way for improved plant nutrient sensing and enhanced agricultural productivity. His commitment to global food security is demonstrated through collaborative research, impactful publications, and participation in international panels. Dr. Khan’s work exemplifies the integration of fundamental research with practical solutions for a sustainable future.

Pooja Nagime – Agricultural Biotechnology – Best Researcher Award

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Pooja Nagime - Agricultural Biotechnology - Best Researcher Award

Pooja Nagime - Agricultural Biotechnology - Best Researcher Award

Prince of Songkla University -  United States

AUTHOR PROFILE 

GOOGLE  SCHOLAR 

SUMMARY

Pooja Nagime is a dedicated researcher in the field of biotechnology, with a focus on innovative R&D and academic excellence. Her journey reflects a commitment to scientific inquiry, global collaboration, and continuous professional growth. With experience across academic institutions and international research projects, she consistently aims to bridge theory and practical application. Her work spans from microbial screening to advanced nanoparticle synthesis, demonstrating versatility and scientific curiosity. She thrives in dynamic research environments, contributing actively to the development of sustainable and health-related biotechnological solutions.

EDUCATION

Pooja completed her higher education in biotechnology, culminating in a Ph.D. from Prince of Songkla University in Thailand. Her academic journey began with a B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Biotechnology from Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, India. Her educational background reflects a deep and methodical engagement with core biotechnological principles, enabling her to develop expertise in areas such as molecular biology, nanotechnology, and microbial applications. The international dimension of her doctoral research enriched her perspective and contributed to a multidisciplinary approach in her research methodologies.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Pooja Nagime has served as an Assistant Professor at Dayanand Science College, Latur, where she nurtured young scientists through academic instruction and mentorship. She was a Research Scholar at Prince of Songkla University, Thailand, contributing to cutting-edge research in microbial biotechnology. Her early experience as a Project Assistant at the National AIDS Research Institute, Pune, provided hands-on exposure to public health research. These diverse roles underscore her adaptability and depth across academic and applied research settings, strengthening her expertise in experimental design, data interpretation, and collaborative science.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Pooja’s research interests center on microbial biotechnology, nanotechnology, plant-microbe interactions, and sustainable biomedical innovations. She is particularly focused on the biosynthesis of nanoparticles for medical use and the isolation of microorganisms for value-added chemical production. Her curiosity extends into the antimicrobial potential of natural products and stress physiology in plants. This multidisciplinary scope allows her to address real-world challenges through scientific inquiry, particularly in health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. Her research aligns with global priorities like reducing antibiotic resistance and promoting green technologies.

AWARDS AND HONORS

Pooja’s international academic trajectory and research collaborations reflect recognition of her capabilities. Securing a research position at Prince of Songkla University is indicative of merit-based selection and academic competence. Her appointment as Assistant Professor signifies trust in her pedagogical and scientific acumen. She continues to be an active member of academic communities, often invited for collaborative research and contributing to scientific publications. Such engagements point to professional esteem and peer acknowledgment in the field of biotechnology.

RESEARCH SKILLS

Pooja is proficient in molecular biology techniques, microbial screening, and nanoparticle synthesis. She is skilled in analytical tools and software such as MEGA-X, ClustalW, BioEdit, Sequence Scanner, and VOSviewer, which enhance her bioinformatics and data visualization capabilities. Her expertise includes antimicrobial testing, plant tissue culture, and biogenic synthesis. She also demonstrates strong command over experimental design using Design Expert software. These skills position her to contribute effectively to interdisciplinary projects in modern biotech laboratories and collaborative research networks.

PUBLICATIONS

  • Title: Biogenic Fabrication of Silver Nanoparticles Using Calotropis procera Flower Extract with Enhanced Biomimetics Attributes
    Authors: PV Nagime, S Singh, NM Shaikh, KS Gomare, H Chitme, ...
    Journal: Materials, Volume 16, Issue 11, Article 4058 (2023)

  • Title: Facile synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Calotropis procera leaves: unraveling biological and electrochemical potentials
    Authors: PV Nagime, NM Shaikh, SB Shaikh, CD Lokhande, VV Patil, S Shafi, ...
    Journal: Discover Nano, Volume 19, Issue 1, Article 139 (2024)

  • Title: Phyto-mediated biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using Aloe barbadensis Miller leaves gel with improved antibacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti …
    Authors: PV Nagime, DM Syukri, T Sjahriani, D Hermawan, NM Shaikh, S Shafi, ...
    Journal: Nano-Structures & Nano-Objects, Volume 40, Article 101368 (2024)

  • Title: Revolutionizing the biomedical and environmental clean-up through polymeric nano-sponges: A review
    Authors: A Kumar, P Mohite, S Munde, A Puri, HO Edet, DO Ochoule, ...
    Journal: Nano-Structures & Nano-Objects, Volume 39, Article 101193 (2024)

  • Title: Moringa oleifera: A plethora of bioactive reservoirs with tremendous opportunity for green synthesis of silver nanoparticles enabled with multifaceted applications
    Authors: PV Nagime, S Singh, VR Chidrawar, A Rajput, DM Syukri, NT Marwan, ...
    Journal: Nano-Structures & Nano-Objects, Volume 40, Article 101404 (2024)

 

CONCLUSION

Pooja Nagime embodies the profile of a dedicated researcher and educator, equipped with global academic exposure and practical experience. Her interdisciplinary interests, ranging from nanotechnology to microbial biotechnology, position her at the forefront of impactful research. She continues to advance scientific frontiers while mentoring the next generation of researchers. With a balance of academic rigor, innovative thinking, and applied skills, Pooja is poised to contribute significantly to health, environmental, and agricultural biotechnology sectors. Her career reflects both promise and progress in the ever-evolving landscape of science.

Diriba Muleta – Agricultural Biotechnology – Best Researcher Award 

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Diriba Muleta - Agricultural Biotechnology - Best Researcher Award 

Addis Ababa University - Ethiopia

SUMMARY

Dr. Diriba Muleta is an Associate Professor of Microbial Biotechnology with over 24 years of academic and research experience. Based at Addis Ababa University, he has led diverse national and international research projects in microbiology, particularly in soil microbial ecology, biofertilizers, and fermentation technology. His work spans agriculture, wastewater treatment, and public health microbiology. He has guided numerous MSc and PhD students and held leadership roles in academic and professional societies. Dr. Muleta's contributions have significantly advanced microbial biotechnology in Ethiopia and beyond, making him a prominent figure in the scientific community.

EDUCATION

Dr. Muleta earned his PhD in Microbiology from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in 2007, following an MSc in Applied Microbiology from Addis Ababa University and a BSc in Biology from Asmara University. He further enriched his academic credentials with a one-year postdoctoral fellowship awarded by the Swedish Institute in 2014. His formal education laid a robust foundation for his expertise in microbial biotechnology and advanced applied microbiology. These qualifications equipped him to lead cutting-edge research and provide academic leadership in microbiological sciences at national and international institutions.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Dr. Muleta has held several key academic and leadership positions. He served as Head of the Department of Biology at Jimma University from 2010 to 2012 and is currently Interim Head of the Biotechnology Research Centre at Addis Ababa University. He was instrumental in projects funded by Belgian and Canadian governments, acting as Principal Investigator and advisor. His roles have extended to curriculum review, academic council participation, and mentoring over 30 MSc and numerous PhD students. He actively contributes to scientific communities and committees, exemplifying leadership across academic and research institutions.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Dr. Muleta's research interests encompass the ecological roles and applications of beneficial soil microorganisms including AMF, endophytes, and PGPR. He explores their use as biofertilizers and biocontrol agents to enhance sustainable agriculture and ecosystem restoration. His research also includes the screening of indigenous yeasts for fermentation, studies on mushrooms cultivation, and analysis of antifungal compounds from plants. He engages in water quality assessments and wastewater microbiology. His work addresses both fundamental microbial ecology and its practical applications in agriculture, health, and environmental management, aiming to improve livelihoods and ecological sustainability.

AWARD AND HONOR

Dr. Muleta was awarded a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship by the Swedish Institute in 2014, recognizing his academic excellence and research potential. He has also served on numerous academic boards and scientific committees, reflecting his professional standing and contributions to the field of microbiology. His roles in professional societies such as the Ethiopian Society for Microbiology and the Biological Society of Ethiopia further illustrate his recognition within the scientific community. These honors underscore his influence as a researcher, educator, and leader committed to advancing microbiological science in Ethiopia and internationally.

RESEARCH SKILL

Dr. Muleta possesses a broad skillset in microbial biotechnology, including the isolation and application of soil microbes, yeast characterization, and microbial analysis of water and soil. He is adept in designing and managing multidisciplinary research projects and translating findings into practical solutions for agriculture and environmental health. His skills extend to academic mentoring, curriculum development, and scientific communication. He also has experience working with local communities and stakeholders, enhancing the societal impact of his research. His methodological rigor and ability to integrate laboratory and fieldwork distinguish his scientific contributions.

CONCLUSION

Dr. Diriba Muleta stands out as a leading academic and researcher in microbial biotechnology. His decades-long commitment to teaching, research, and community service has influenced both scientific development and practical applications in agriculture and public health. Through leadership roles and collaborations, he has built a legacy of innovation, mentorship, and scientific excellence. His continued engagement in editorial duties, academic councils, and field research ensures his enduring impact on microbiological sciences in Ethiopia and globally. His work exemplifies the integration of research, education, and societal contribution in advancing sustainable development.

PUBLICATIONS

  • Title: Enset Landraces: Conservation, Distribution, and Use in an Enset‐Based Agricultural System
    Authors: Tafesse Kibatu, Tileye Feyissa, Sebsebe Demissew, Diriba Muleta, Preet Amol Singh
    Journal: Scientifica (2025-01)

  • Title: Enhancing pigment production by a chromogenic bacterium (Exiguobacterium aurantiacum) using tomato waste extract: A Statistical approach
    Authors: Birhanu Zeleke, Diriba Muleta, Hunduma Dinka, Dereje Tsegaye, Jemal Hassen
    Journal: Preprint (2024-10-17)

  • Title: Improvement of nutritional composition of shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes) using formulated substrates of plant and animal origins
    Authors: Buzayehu Desisa, Diriba Muleta, Mulissa Jida, Tatek Dejene, Abayneh Goshu, Tadesse Negi, Pablo Martin-Pinto
    Journal: Future Foods (2024-06)

  • Title: A Comparative Study on the Physicochemical and Antioxidant Properties of Honeys From Apis mellifera L. and Meliponula beccarii L. Collected From Western Oromia, Ethiopia
    Authors: Ofijan Tesfaye, Diriba Muleta, Asnake Desalegn, Amarat (Amy) Simonne
    Journal: International Journal of Food Science (2024-01)

  • Title: Characterization and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns of Listeria monocytogenes from Raw Cow Milk in the Southern Part of Ethiopia
    Authors: Habtamu Hawaz, Mestawet Taye, Diriba Muleta, Meriam Tir
    Journal: Journal of Food Quality (2023-10-13)