Mariam Oyedeji Amusa | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

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
    2023205 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
    202346 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
    202327 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.
    202322 citations

  • Medicinal properties of whole fruit extracts of Nauclea latifolia Smith.: Antimicrobial, antioxidant and hypoglycemic assessments
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, AOT Ashafa
    201922 citations

  • The ethnobotany and chemistry of South African Meliaceae: a review
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, NJ Sadgrove, BE Van Wyk
    202121 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
    202020 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.
    202312 citations

  • Wood anatomy of South African Meliaceae: evolutionary and ecological implications
    MO Oyedeji Amusa, BE Van Wyk, A Oskolski
    202011 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
    201610 citations

  • Effect of Ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata on lipid profile…
    MO Amusa, AOA, OPC Ugwu
    202310 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.
    20249 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
    20245 citations

  • Medicinal plants used in the treatment of Typhoid fever in Nigeria: A Systematic Review
    M Oyedeji-Amusa, N Cuboia, K Olofinsan
    20244 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.
    20244 citations

  • Ethnomedicinal importance and antimicrobial activity of Leonotis ocymifolia
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, SF Van Vuuren, RD Rattray, BE Van Wyk
    20243 citations

  • Ethnopharmacological survey on medicinal plants utilization in Freetown, Sierra Leone
    A Adepoju, MO Oyedeji-Amusa, O Awotunde, O Ugwu
    20232 citations

  • Dietary nutrients, antinutritional factors, and valorization of food waste
    AJ Olaseni, M Moses, OA Mariam, SS Oyefunke
    20201 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

Gianluigi Bacchetta | Systematic Botany | Botany Scientist Excellence Award

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta | Systematic Botany | Botany Scientist Excellence Award

Direttore Centro Conservazione Biodiversità at Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Italy

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta is a renowned botanist and Full Professor at the University of Cagliari, Italy, with a distinguished career in plant biology, conservation, and geobotany. He holds multiple advanced degrees, including a European PhD in Plant Biology, and has served in various academic roles, including Director of the Hortus Botanicus Karalitanus and the Conservation Centre of Biodiversity. His research focuses on Mediterranean plant diversity, phytoclimatology, and phytogeography, contributing nearly 700 scientific publications. Prof. Bacchetta is actively involved in international conservation efforts, leading several EU-funded projects and serving on the editorial boards of prestigious journals. He also holds key positions in networks such as GENMEDA and scientific councils across Europe. His impactful work in seed banking, biodiversity preservation, and academic leadership makes him a leading figure in botanical science. His contributions have significantly advanced plant conservation and research, making him a strong candidate for recognition in the field.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta holds a comprehensive and multidisciplinary academic background in the life sciences. He earned his degree in Life Sciences from the University of Cagliari in 1996, followed by a Master’s in Landscape Planning at the same university in 1997. He further specialized with a Master’s in “Vegetation Analysis: survey and data elaboration on flora, vegetation and soil” at the Marche Polytechnic University in 2000. That same year, he completed a PhD in Geomorphology and Geobotany at the Marche Polytechnic University, solidifying his expertise in plant ecology and landscape dynamics. In 2002, he obtained the “Suficiencia Investigadora” and earned a European PhD in Plant Biology at the University of Valencia, Spain. His diverse and rigorous academic training across prominent European institutions laid a strong foundation for his distinguished research career in botany, particularly in Mediterranean flora, conservation biology, and phytogeography.

Professional Experience 💼

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta has over two decades of professional experience in botanical science, specializing in plant biology, geobotany, and conservation. He began his academic career as a lecturer at the Marche Polytechnic University (2000–2002), followed by his role as Assistant Professor at the University of Cagliari (2002–2006). He was later promoted to Associate Professor (2006–2015) and currently serves as Full Professor at the Faculty of Biology and Pharmacy. He also holds an adjunct professorship at the University of Tehran. Prof. Bacchetta has directed key institutions such as the Hortus Botanicus Karalitanus and currently leads the Conservation Centre of Biodiversity and the Germplasm Bank of Sardinia. He is Deputy Director of the PhD program in Earth and Environmental Sciences and actively contributes to international conservation projects. His leadership, academic mentorship, and research coordination highlight his profound commitment to advancing plant science and biodiversity conservation on both national and international levels.

Research Interest 🔬

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta’s research interests center on plant biodiversity, geobotany, and conservation biology, with a strong focus on the Mediterranean region. Since 1991, he has conducted extensive studies on the flora of islands and coastal ecosystems, examining patterns of plant diversity, endemism, and habitat specificity. His work integrates phytoclimatology, phytogeography, and ecological restoration, aiming to understand and preserve vulnerable plant communities. He has a particular interest in ex situ and in situ conservation strategies, seed banking, and the sustainable management of plant genetic resources. As Director of the Conservation Centre of Biodiversity and the Germplasm Bank of Sardinia, he plays a key role in preserving rare and endemic species. Prof. Bacchetta is also involved in international research networks and projects focused on ecosystem resilience, habitat mapping, and biogeographic analysis. His interdisciplinary approach combines fieldwork, data analysis, and policy-oriented research to advance global plant conservation efforts.

Award and Honor🏆

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to botany, plant conservation, and biodiversity research. While specific awards are not detailed in the provided information, his appointment to prestigious academic and scientific positions reflects his high standing in the scientific community. He has been entrusted with leadership roles such as Director of the Conservation Centre of Biodiversity and the Germplasm Bank of Sardinia, as well as President of the GENMEDA network, underscoring his influence in Mediterranean plant conservation. Additionally, his involvement in high-level scientific councils, editorial boards of leading journals, and international conservation initiatives attests to the respect he commands globally. His selection as a principal investigator for numerous European Union-funded projects (LIFE+, Interreg, Erasmus+) further highlights his scientific excellence and leadership. These honors collectively demonstrate his significant impact on advancing plant science and conserving botanical heritage at both regional and international levels.

Research Skill🔎

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta possesses a broad and advanced set of research skills in the fields of botany, plant ecology, and biodiversity conservation. His expertise spans geobotanical survey methods, vegetation analysis, phytosociological classification, and phytogeographical mapping. He is highly skilled in the identification and classification of Mediterranean flora, with a strong focus on endemic and threatened plant species. Prof. Bacchetta is proficient in ex situ and in situ conservation techniques, including seed collection, germplasm preservation, and habitat restoration. He demonstrates strong analytical skills in ecological data processing and GIS-based spatial analysis, essential for landscape-level conservation planning. Additionally, he is experienced in managing large-scale, interdisciplinary research projects, especially those funded by the European Union. His ability to integrate fieldwork with policy-relevant science and academic dissemination is evident in his prolific publication record. These research competencies position him as a leader in applied plant science and ecosystem conservation across Mediterranean and island environments.

Conclusion📝

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta is an exceptionally qualified and globally respected botanist, whose long-standing contributions to plant taxonomy, biodiversity conservation, and geobotany make him a highly suitable and deserving candidate for the Botany Scientist Excellence Award.

His profound academic achievements, prolific publication record, institutional leadership, and continuous involvement in conservation and international collaboration align perfectly with the award’s vision to honor excellence in botanical research.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • An annotated checklist of the Italian vascular flora
    Authors: F Conti, G Abbate, A Alessandrini, C Blasi
    Year: 1999
    Citations: 2005

  • An updated checklist of the vascular flora native to Italy
    Authors: F Bartolucci, L Peruzzi, G Galasso, A Albano, A Alessandrini, …
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 927

  • An updated checklist of the vascular flora alien to Italy
    Authors: G Galasso, F Conti, L Peruzzi, NMG Ardenghi, E Banfi, L Celesti-Grapow, …
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 625

  • Integrazioni alla checklist della flora vascolare italiana
    Authors: F Conti, A Alessandrini, G Bacchetta, E Banfi, G Barberis, F Bartolucci, …
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 397

  • Using MaxEnt modeling to predict the potential distribution of the endemic plant Rosa arabica Crép. in Egypt
    Authors: M Abdelaal, M Fois, G Fenu, G Bacchetta
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 297

  • Using species distribution models at local scale to guide the search of poorly known species: Review, methodological issues and future directions
    Authors: M Fois, A Cuena-Lombraña, G Fenu, G Bacchetta
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 277

  • Hotspots within hotspots: Endemic plant richness, environmental drivers, and implications for conservation
    Authors: EM Cañadas, G Fenu, J Peñas, J Lorite, E Mattana, G Bacchetta
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 243

  • Effects of ecological factors on the antioxidant potential and total phenol content of Scrophularia striata Boiss
    Authors: Z Zargoosh, M Ghavam, G Bacchetta, A Tavili
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 226

  • Red Listing plants under full national responsibility: Extinction risk and threats in the vascular flora endemic to Italy
    Authors: S Orsenigo, C Montagnani, G Fenu, D Gargano, L Peruzzi, T Abeli, …
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 212

  • Phylogenetic analysis informed by geological history supports multiple, sequential invasions of the Mediterranean Basin by the angiosperm family Araceae
    Authors: G Mansion, G Rosenbaum, N Schoenenberger, G Bacchetta, JA Rosselló, …
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 171

  • Environmental factors influencing coastal vegetation pattern: new insights from the Mediterranean Basin
    Authors: G Fenu, M Carboni, ATR Acosta, G Bacchetta
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 159

  • Vegetazione forestale e serie di vegetazione della Sardegna (con rappresentazione cartografica alla scala 1: 350.000)
    Authors: G Bacchetta, S Bagella, E Biondi, E Farris, RS Filigheddu, L Mossa
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 155

  • Conservación ex situ de plantas silvestres
    Authors: G Bacchetta, B Daniel, B Piero
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 144