Research Associate at Bahauddin Zakaria University, Pakistan.
Muhammad Ghazanfar Abbas is a dedicated entomologist and chemical ecologist from Pakistan, actively engaged in advancing research on insect chemical communication and pest management. His work focuses on the ecological and biochemical interactions of insects with host plants, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. With several peer-reviewed publications, he has demonstrated expertise in exploring essential oils and plant-derived compounds as environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic pesticides. Abbas has served in diverse roles including research associate, lecturer, and lab manager, showcasing strong professional growth. His contributions highlight his commitment to applied entomology and integrated pest control strategies.
Professional Profile
ORCID
Education
Muhammad Ghazanfar Abbas pursued his academic journey at Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, where he earned his B.Sc. (Hons.), M.Sc. (Hons.), and is currently completing his Ph.D. in Agriculture Entomology. His research has emphasized plant essential oils and their bioactive potential against vector and agricultural pests. His M.Sc. thesis explored the repellant and larvicidal effects of essential oils against Aedes aegypti, a major dengue vector. Throughout his studies, Abbas has maintained a strong academic record and cultivated specialized expertise in chemical ecology, insect behavior, and bio-rational pest control approaches, aligning his education with his research career goals.
Professional Experience
Muhammad Ghazanfar Abbas has held various professional roles that enriched his expertise in entomology. He worked as a research associate in an HEC-funded project on locust feeding preferences, where he gained hands-on experience in insect behavior and host plant interactions. He has been a lab manager at Bahauddin Zakariya University since 2019, overseeing research and academic activities. His professional portfolio also includes work as a visiting lecturer, secondary school teacher, and agriculture farm manager. Additionally, he served as assistant coordinator at a pesticide group, broadening his applied knowledge. These experiences reflect his versatility and leadership in both research and education.
Research Interest
Muhammad Ghazanfar Abbas has a strong research interest in chemical ecology, insect behavior, and sustainable pest management. His focus is on the chemical composition and bioactivity of plant essential oils, particularly their role as repellents, larvicides, and oviposition deterrents against mosquitoes and agricultural pests. He is also interested in exploring environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides, aligning with integrated pest management principles. His recent works extend into the study of insect–plant interactions, microbial biocontrol agents, and alternative protein sources in poultry nutrition. Abbas’s research aims to bridge ecological theory with practical solutions for agriculture and public health challenges.
Awards and Honors
Muhammad Ghazanfar Abbas has been recognized for his academic dedication and leadership with multiple awards. He received the Best Lab Manager Award from the Department of Entomology at Bahauddin Zakariya University for his outstanding service in research management. His academic journey has also been supported through national initiatives, including laptops awarded by both the Prime Minister and Chief Minister of Pakistan. Additionally, he was granted a solar panel under the Prime Minister’s scheme, reflecting recognition of his scholarly promise. These honors not only acknowledge his hard work but also highlight his commitment to advancing scientific research and education.
Research Skills
Muhammad Ghazanfar Abbas has developed strong research skills in entomology and chemical ecology. He is proficient in insect rearing, behavioral assays, and olfactory studies to understand host plant preferences and vector control. His expertise includes advanced laboratory techniques for essential oil extraction, chemical analysis, and bioassays for evaluating repellency, larvicidal activity, and antibacterial effects. Abbas is skilled in managing collaborative research projects, data interpretation, and scientific writing, demonstrated by his multiple publications in high-impact journals. As a lab manager, he has cultivated skills in supervision, resource management, and student training, showcasing a comprehensive research and leadership profile.
Publications
Muhammad Ghazanfar Abbas has contributed significantly to entomological science through multiple research publications. His works primarily explore the chemical composition and biological activities of essential oils against Aedes aegypti, Anopheles gambiae, and agricultural pests. He has co-authored papers on mosquito repellency, antibacterial effects, and alternative protein sources for poultry. His articles are published in internationally recognized journals including Biology, Molecules, and Frontiers in Animal Science. These contributions reflect his ability to collaborate with international scientists and address global challenges in pest and vector control. His publication record underscores his expertise in bio-rational pest management strategies.
Nawaz, M., Ullah, B., Abbas, M. G., Binyameen, M., Apšegaitė, V., Mozūraitis, R., & Azeem, M. (2024). Antibacterial and mosquito repellent potential of eight citrus cultivars and their chemical composition. Horticulturae.
Abbas, M. G., Azeem, M., Bashir, M. U., Ali, F., Mozūratis, R., & Binyameen, M. (2024). Chemical composition, repellent, and oviposition deterrent potential of wild plant essential oils against three mosquito species. Molecules.
Parveen, A., Abbas, M. G., Keefover-Ring, K., Binyameen, M., Mozūraitis, R., & Azeem, M. (2024). Chemical composition of essential oils from natural populations of Artemisia scoparia collected at different altitudes: Antibacterial, mosquito repellent, and larvicidal effects. Molecules.
Haris, A., Azeem, M., Abbas, M. G., Mumtaz, M., Mozūratis, R., & Binyameen, M. (2023). Prolonged repellent activity of plant essential oils against dengue vector, Aedes aegypti. Molecules.
Abbas, M. G. (2022). Chemical composition, larvicidal and repellent activities of wild plant essential oils against Aedes aegypti.
Conclusion
Muhammad Ghazanfar Abbas is an emerging researcher in the field of entomology, with a growing reputation in chemical ecology and bio-rational pest management. His academic achievements, professional roles, and impactful publications collectively highlight his contribution to science and sustainable agriculture. With recognized awards and honors, he continues to demonstrate excellence in research and teaching. His expertise in essential oil-based pest control and insect behavior positions him as a valuable contributor to future innovations in agriculture and public health. Abbas’s career reflects a strong commitment to advancing knowledge and applying science for environmental sustainability.