Mariam Oyedeji Amusa | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Fellow at University of Johannesburg, South Africa

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg and a part-time Senior Lecturer at Kampala International University. With a Ph.D. in Botany and Plant Biotechnology, and prior degrees in Pharmacognosy and Plant Science, her research focuses on ethnobotany, phytochemistry, molecular taxonomy, and plant-based drug discovery. She has authored over 18 journal articles, contributed to scholarly books, and actively collaborates with international researchers across Africa, Europe, and Asia. Dr. Amusa has led and facilitated numerous workshops on systematic reviews and meta-analysis, mentored postgraduate students, and contributed to capacity building in African scientific communities. Her work addresses critical global challenges such as antimicrobial resistance, using indigenous knowledge and modern biotechnology. She is a member of professional bodies including the South African Association of Botanists and SACNASP. Her contributions exemplify academic excellence, scientific leadership, and a commitment to sustainable health solutions through plant-based innovations.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa holds a Ph.D. in Botany and Plant Biotechnology from the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, where she conducted a multidisciplinary study on the Meliaceae family, integrating systematics, anatomy, and antimicrobial research. She also earned a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Pharmacognosy from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, with a thesis focused on the antimicrobial properties of Nauclea latifolia. Her foundational academic training includes a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Science from the University of Ilorin, where she studied seed germination and growth variability in cowpea varieties. Her educational background reflects a strong and progressive focus on plant biology, medicinal botany, and natural product research. Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Amusa has developed expertise in diverse areas such as ethnobotany, phytomedicine, molecular biology, and plant taxonomy, forming a solid foundation for her current research in metabolomics, nanotechnology, and drug discovery from natural sources.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa has amassed diverse professional experience across research, teaching, and scientific capacity building. Currently, she serves as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg, where she conducts advanced studies in plant metabolomics, antimicrobial activities, and systematic reviews. She also holds a part-time position as a Senior Lecturer at Kampala International University, teaching courses such as biostatistics, microbiology, and genetics. Previously, she lectured at the Pan African University and tutored at the University of Johannesburg, where she also mentored postgraduate and undergraduate students, supervised fieldwork, and coordinated practical sessions. Dr. Amusa has contributed to academic development through her roles as a facilitator of workshops on systematic reviews and meta-analysis across Africa. Her early career included work as a Development Knowledge Facilitator during Nigeria’s National Youth Service Corps, where she trained over 400 graduates in entrepreneurship skills. Her experience reflects a strong commitment to research, education, and scientific empowerment.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa’s research interests center on the discovery of plant-based solutions to global health challenges, with a strong emphasis on natural product research, ethnobotany, and biotechnology. Her work focuses on the therapeutic potential of indigenous medicinal plants, particularly in addressing antimicrobial resistance and promoting sustainable health practices. She has a keen interest in nanotechnology, metabolomics, and drug discovery, exploring the biochemical and pharmacological properties of plant secondary metabolites. Dr. Amusa also engages deeply in molecular taxonomy, using genetic and anatomical approaches to understand plant diversity and systematics, particularly in African flora. An advocate for evidence-based practice, she is actively involved in systematic reviews and meta-analyses, employing tools such as RevMan and Rayyan for research synthesis. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges traditional knowledge with modern scientific techniques, aiming to validate and harness the medicinal value of plants. Her ultimate goal is to contribute to integrative and accessible healthcare innovations from natural origins.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa possesses a robust set of research skills that span both laboratory and analytical domains, enabling her to conduct high-impact interdisciplinary studies in plant science and pharmacognosy. She is proficient in phytochemical analysis, antimicrobial assays, and toxicity evaluations, which she applies to investigate the medicinal potential of indigenous plants. Her expertise in molecular systematics and taxonomy is supported by advanced techniques in microscopy (LM and SEM) and DNA-based analysis. Dr. Amusa is also highly skilled in plant metabolomics and bioinformatics, using tools such as QGIS, Excel, and GraphPad Prism for data visualization and statistical analysis. She is an experienced facilitator of systematic reviews and meta-analyses, with strong command over research synthesis platforms like Rayyan and RevMan. Additionally, her mentoring and supervision of postgraduate students reflect her ability to guide complex research projects. Her integrative skillset positions her as a versatile researcher capable of bridging traditional knowledge with modern science.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa has earned recognition for her outstanding contributions to botanical research and capacity building in African science communities. While specific awards are not extensively listed in her profile, her selection as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg itself reflects academic merit and research excellence. She has also served as a facilitator for research capacity development workshops, which underscores her leadership in scientific training and mentorship. Her role as a part-time Senior Lecturer at Kampala International University and past lecturer at Pan African University highlights her continued recognition as a trusted academic in plant science and pharmacognosy. Furthermore, her consistent collaboration with researchers across continents, as well as invitations to contribute to edited scientific volumes, demonstrates the respect she commands in her field. Dr. Amusa’s growing citation metrics, international visibility, and involvement in consultancy projects all reflect professional acknowledgment of her work and emerging global influence.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Mariam Oyefunke Oyedeji Amusa is a strong and promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award, especially considering her interdisciplinary research excellence, global collaborations, and commitment to mentorship and research dissemination across Africa. While there is room for growth in innovation-based outputs and editorial leadership, her profile aligns well with the award’s mission to recognize impactful, globally relevant research in botany and related sciences.

Suggested Category Fit:
✔ Best Researcher Award
✔ Women Research Award (Alternate strong fit)
✔ Excellence in Research Award (If innovation metrics grow further)

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Inclusion of nutritional counseling and mental health services in HIV/AIDS management: A paradigm shift
    EU Alum, EI Obeagu, OPC Ugwu, AO Samson, AO Adepoju, MO Amusa
    2023 – 205 citations

  • Effect of Ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata on lipid profile of streptozotocin induced diabetic wistar albino rats
    OPC Ugwu, EU Alum, EI Obeagu, MB Okon, PM Aja, AO Samson, MO Amusa
    2023 – 46 citations

  • Effect of Ethanol Leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata on hepatic markers in streptozotocin-induced diabetic wistar albino rats
    OPC Ugwu, EI Obeagu, EU Alum, MB Okon, PM Aja, MO Amusa
    2023 – 27 citations

  • Synthesis and computational investigation of N, N-dimethyl-4-[(Z)-(phenylimino) methyl] aniline derivatives: Biological and quantitative structural activity relationship studies
    I Waziri, MT Kelani, MO Oyedeji-Amusa, AK Oyebamiji, LCC Coetzee, et al.
    2023 – 22 citations

  • Medicinal properties of whole fruit extracts of Nauclea latifolia Smith.: Antimicrobial, antioxidant and hypoglycemic assessments
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, AOT Ashafa
    2019 – 22 citations

  • The ethnobotany and chemistry of South African Meliaceae: a review
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, NJ Sadgrove, BE Van Wyk
    2021 – 21 citations

  • Antimicrobial activity and toxicity of extracts from the bark and leaves of South African indigenous Meliaceae against selected pathogens
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, S Van Vuuren
    2020 – 20 citations

  • Exploring natural plant products in breast cancer management: A comprehensive review and future prospects
    EU Alum, EI Obeagu, OPC Ugwu, OU Orji, AO Adepoju, MO Amusa, et al.
    2023 – 12 citations

  • Wood anatomy of South African Meliaceae: evolutionary and ecological implications
    MO Oyedeji Amusa, BE Van Wyk, A Oskolski
    2020 – 11 citations

  • Ethnoveterinary survey of tradomedical importance of Bos taurus L urine, bile and dung in Nigeria and South Africa
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, OT Ojuromi, AO Ashafa
    2016 – 10 citations

  • Effect of Ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata on lipid profile…
    MO Amusa, AOA, OPC Ugwu
    2023 – 10 citations

  • Efficacy and safety of Mazdutide on weight loss among diabetic and non-diabetic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
    DL Nalisa, N Cuboia, E Dyab, IL Jackson, HJ Felix, P Shoki, M Mubiana, et al.
    2024 – 9 citations

  • A taxonomic review of South African indigenous Meliaceae using molecular systematics and anatomical data
    MO Oyedeji Amusa, RD Stewart, M van der Bank, BE van Wyk
    2024 – 5 citations

  • Medicinal plants used in the treatment of Typhoid fever in Nigeria: A Systematic Review
    M Oyedeji-Amusa, N Cuboia, K Olofinsan
    2024 – 4 citations

  • Comparative investigation of derivatives of (E)-N-((E)-3-phenylallylidene) aniline: Synthesis, structural characterization, biological evaluation, density functional theory …
    I Waziri, MT Kelani, MO Oyedeji-Amusa, AK Oyebamiji, LCC Coetzee, et al.
    2024 – 4 citations

  • Ethnomedicinal importance and antimicrobial activity of Leonotis ocymifolia
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, SF Van Vuuren, RD Rattray, BE Van Wyk
    2024 – 3 citations

  • Ethnopharmacological survey on medicinal plants utilization in Freetown, Sierra Leone
    A Adepoju, MO Oyedeji-Amusa, O Awotunde, O Ugwu
    2023 – 2 citations

  • Dietary nutrients, antinutritional factors, and valorization of food waste
    AJ Olaseni, M Moses, OA Mariam, SS Oyefunke
    2020 – 1 citation

  • Adoption of Climate Change Adaptation Strategies and Household Food Security of Smallholder Poultry Farmers in Lagos and Ogun states, Nigeria
    SA Abanigbe, P Orowole, MS Ngidi, M Yusuf-Oshoala, TO Ojo, et al.
    2024

Othman Al-Hawshabi | Plant Taxonomy | Best Scholar Award

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Prof. Othman Al-Hawshabi | Plant Taxonomy | Best Scholar Award

University Professor at Department of Life Sciences – Faculty of Science – University of Aden, Yemen

Prof. Othman Saad Said Hamoud Al-Hawshabi is a distinguished botanist specializing in plant taxonomy and flora, currently serving as a Professor in the Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Aden. Born in 1969 in Abyan, Yemen, he holds a Ph.D. in Plant Taxonomy and Flora from Sana’a University (2012) and has published over 45 scientific papers in regional and international journals. He has taught a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in botany and pharmacy and has significantly contributed to curriculum development and academic program design. Prof. Al-Hawshabi is an active member of several scientific societies and editorial boards and has received numerous academic honors, including recognition for his research impact. He has supervised theses, participated in national academic councils, and played a key role in establishing doctoral programs. His scholarly dedication and contributions to Yemen’s botanical research make him a strong candidate for the Best Scholar Award.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Prof. Othman Al-Hawshabi has a solid academic background in plant sciences, culminating in a Ph.D. in Plant Taxonomy and Flora from the Faculty of Science at Sana’a University in 2012. His doctoral research focused on the floristic composition and classification of plant species, contributing significantly to the understanding of Yemen’s plant biodiversity. He earned his Master’s degree in Botany from the University of Aden in 2007, where he laid the foundation for his specialization in plant taxonomy. His undergraduate studies were also completed at the University of Aden, where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Biology in 1998. Throughout his academic journey, Prof. Al-Hawshabi demonstrated a strong commitment to scientific excellence, combining rigorous fieldwork with laboratory analysis. His education has equipped him with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for research, teaching, and academic leadership in the field of plant sciences, and it continues to support his contributions to higher education and biodiversity conservation.

Professional Experience 💼

Prof. Othman Al-Hawshabi has accumulated extensive professional experience in the field of plant taxonomy and flora over more than two decades. He began his academic career at the Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Aden, where he steadily advanced through academic ranks to become a full professor in November 2022. His experience includes teaching undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral courses in plant taxonomy, flora, and related disciplines. He has supervised numerous graduate theses and played a pivotal role in developing academic programs, including co-founding the Ph.D. program in Life Sciences. Prof. Al-Hawshabi has contributed to curriculum design and course specification, ensuring quality and relevance in higher education. He is also an active researcher, having published over 40 scientific papers in local and international journals. Additionally, he participates in editorial boards and scientific societies, enhancing his impact on academic and scientific communities both in Yemen and abroad.

Research Interest 🔬

Prof. Othman Al-Hawshabi’s research interests center on plant taxonomy, flora, and the documentation and classification of plant biodiversity, particularly in Yemen and the Arabian Peninsula. His work focuses on identifying, describing, and classifying plant species, contributing significantly to the understanding of regional flora. He is deeply engaged in floristic surveys and ecological studies, with a special interest in endemic and rare plant species. Additionally, he explores the ethnobotanical and phytochemical properties of medicinal plants, examining their traditional uses and potential pharmaceutical applications. Prof. Al-Hawshabi’s research also extends to biodiversity conservation, aiming to protect endangered plant species and their habitats. He integrates classical taxonomic approaches with modern techniques to enhance the accuracy and depth of his studies. His scholarly contributions, including over 40 published research articles, reflect his commitment to advancing botanical science and supporting sustainable environmental management and conservation efforts in his region and beyond.

Award and Honor🏆

Prof. Othman Al-Hawshabi has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding academic and scientific contributions to plant taxonomy and biodiversity research. Over the course of his career, he has been acknowledged by the University of Aden for excellence in teaching, research, and academic leadership. His scientific publications and impactful work in documenting the flora of Yemen have earned him commendations from national and regional scientific bodies. He has also been invited as a keynote speaker and honored guest at various international conferences and symposia, reflecting his respected status in the botanical sciences community. Prof. Al-Hawshabi has been recognized by academic journals for his role as a peer reviewer and editorial board member, highlighting his commitment to maintaining scientific rigor and integrity. His work in biodiversity conservation and curriculum development has further cemented his reputation as a leading figure in the advancement of plant science education and research in the region.

Research Skill🔎

Prof. Othman Al-Hawshabi possesses a wide range of research skills that reflect his expertise in plant taxonomy, floristic studies, and biodiversity assessment. He is highly skilled in plant identification, classification, and herbarium techniques, with extensive experience in fieldwork across diverse ecological zones in Yemen. His proficiency in designing and conducting floristic surveys has led to the documentation of numerous plant species, some of which are rare or previously unrecorded. He is adept at using taxonomic keys, molecular tools, and comparative morphological analyses to determine plant relationships and classifications. Additionally, Prof. Al-Hawshabi is experienced in analyzing the ecological and medicinal properties of plants, contributing to ethnobotanical and phytochemical studies. He is also proficient in academic writing, data analysis, and scientific reporting, with over 40 research papers published in reputable journals. His collaborative approach and mentoring of graduate students further reflect his strong leadership and communication skills in research environments.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Othman Saad Said Hamood Al-Hawshabi is highly deserving of the Best Scholar Award. His academic journey is marked by excellence, leadership, and a significant contribution to the scientific understanding of Yemen’s flora. His efforts in taxonomy, education, and environmental conservation underscore his commitment to advancing plant sciences in the region. Minor improvements in international networking and research visibility could further elevate his academic standing, but they do not diminish the considerable achievements he has already made.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Floristic composition, life-forms and biological spectrum of Toor Al-Baha District, Lahej Governorate, Yemen – 2017 – Cited by: 30

  • Chemical composition and biological activity of essential oil of Chenopodium ambrosioides from Yemen – 2016 – Cited by: 30

  • Two new records to the flora of the Arabian Peninsula from Yemen – 2014 – Cited by: 20

  • Floristic composition, life‐forms and chorotypes of Al‐Asabah Region, Ash Shamayatayn District, Taiz Governorate, Yemen – 2017 – Cited by: 17

  • Vegetation patterns and floristic composition of Yemen – 2015 – Cited by: 14

  • Syzygium jambos (L.) Alston (Myrtaceae), a new record introduced to the flora of Yemen – 2014 – Cited by: 14

  • Euphorbia dracunculoides Lam.[Euphorbiaceae]: a new record to the flora of Yemen – 2015 – Cited by: 12

  • Addition of some Angiospermic plants to the flora of Yemen – 2017 – Cited by: 11

  • Flora and phytochorology of Lahij governorate of Yemen: 1-systematic revision of wild legumes of the family Fabaceae – 2021 – Cited by: 10

  • Boerhavia erecta L. (Nyctaginaceae): A new record to the flora of the Arabian Peninsula from Yemen – 2015 – Cited by: 9

  • Indigofera trita var. subulata (Fabaceae): a new record to the Flora of Yemen – 2015 – Cited by: 9

  • A new alien record for the flora of Yemen: Merremia dissecta (Jacq.) Hallier f. (Convolvulaceae) – 2016 – Cited by: 8

  • Arabincosides AD, pregnane glycosides isolated from Caralluma arabica – 2022 – Cited by: 7

  • Anticholinesterase and anti-inflammatory constituents from Caralluma awdeliana, a medicinal plant from Yemen – 2023 – Cited by: 6

  • Flora of Albahra Area – Wadi Ad-dabab, Haifan District, Taiz Governorate, Yemen – 2014 – Cited by: 6

  • Flora and Phytochorology of Lahij Governorate of Yemen: 2-Taxonomic Revision of Corchorus L. – 2024 – Cited by: 5

  • Morphological characteristics for two genera (Malvastrum and Sida) of Malvaceae sensu lato in Toor Al-Baha District – 2023 – Cited by: 5

  • Natural plant species inventory of the important plant areas in Arabian Peninsula: Bani Omar, Taiz Governorate – 2020 – Cited by: 5

  • A review on some endemic and near endemic plants of Toor Al-Baha District, Lahej Governorate – 2020 – Cited by: 5

  • Taxonomic Study on Grewia (Grewioideae) of Malvaceae sensu lato in Toor Al-Baha District – 2023 – Cited by: 3