Meseret Muche | Forest Ecology | International Botanical Research Award

Mr. Meseret Muche | Forest Ecology | International Botanical Research Award

Ph.D candiadte at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia

Mr. Meseret Muche Bantie has a solid educational background in the biological sciences, with a focus on botany and ecology. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Botanical Science, which he began in October 2022, demonstrating his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge in his field. He earned his Master of Science (MSc) degree in Botanical Science from Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia, in 2014, where he developed a strong foundation in plant ecology, taxonomy, and environmental analysis. Prior to that, he obtained a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree in Biology from the same university in 2008, which laid the groundwork for his teaching and academic career. Additionally, from 2015 to 2017, he completed the Higher Diploma Program (HDP) at Wollo University, focusing on pedagogical skills for higher education. His educational journey reflects a blend of academic excellence, subject-matter expertise, and a strong dedication to both teaching and research in plant sciences.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Mr. Meseret Muche Bantie has a solid educational background in the biological sciences, with a focus on botany and ecology. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Botanical Science, which he began in October 2022, demonstrating his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge in his field. He earned his Master of Science (MSc) degree in Botanical Science from Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia, in 2014, where he developed a strong foundation in plant ecology, taxonomy, and environmental analysis. Prior to that, he obtained a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree in Biology from the same university in 2008, which laid the groundwork for his teaching and academic career. Additionally, from 2015 to 2017, he completed the Higher Diploma Program (HDP) at Wollo University, focusing on pedagogical skills for higher education. His educational journey reflects a blend of academic excellence, subject-matter expertise, and a strong dedication to both teaching and research in plant sciences.

Professional Experience 💼

Mr. Meseret Muche Bantie has over 15 years of professional experience in teaching and research within the biological sciences. Since August 2015, he has been serving as a lecturer and researcher at Woldia University, Ethiopia, where he teaches undergraduate courses in Plant Ecology, Taxonomy, Ecophysiology, and related fields. His role also includes supervising student research projects and conducting field-based ecological studies. Prior to his university position, he worked as a biology teacher at secondary and preparatory schools in Debre Tabor from 2008 to 2015, where he built a strong foundation in academic instruction and student engagement. In addition to teaching, he served as Head of the Biology Department at Woldia University from April 2018 to May 2019, demonstrating leadership and administrative capabilities. His research contributions span ecological restoration, plant diversity, and environmental monitoring, and he has collaborated with international researchers on several impactful studies published in peer-reviewed journals.

Research Interest 🔬

Mr. Meseret Muche Bantie’s research interests lie at the intersection of plant ecology, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem restoration, with a particular focus on the dry evergreen Afromontane forests of Ethiopia. He is deeply engaged in studying vegetation dynamics, woody plant species diversity, and functional trait responses in relation to land use changes and ecological interventions such as exclosures. His work explores how human activity and climate factors affect forest structure, soil properties, and ecosystem services. He is also interested in the role of biochar in soil amelioration and sustainable crop production, as well as ethnobotanical studies that document traditional knowledge of medicinal plants used for livestock. His interdisciplinary approach integrates tools such as GIS, remote sensing, and statistical modeling (R, SPSS) to understand plant-environment interactions and inform conservation strategies. Through his research, Mr. Meseret aims to contribute to the restoration and sustainable management of degraded ecosystems in Ethiopia and beyond.

Research Skill🔎

Mr. Meseret Muche Bantie possesses a diverse and well-rounded set of research skills that support his work in plant ecology, biodiversity, and environmental science. He is proficient in designing and conducting ecological field studies, including vegetation sampling, soil analysis, and biodiversity assessments across various landscapes. His data analysis skills are strong, with expertise in statistical software such as R and SPSS for modeling ecological relationships and interpreting complex datasets. Mr. Meseret is also skilled in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing, enabling him to analyze spatial patterns of land use, vegetation cover, and ecosystem changes over time. He is experienced in publishing scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals and collaborating with international researchers. His ability to integrate ecological theory with practical conservation challenges demonstrates his strong analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities. Overall, Mr. Meseret’s research skills reflect a solid foundation in both fieldwork and data-driven environmental analysis.

Award and Honor🏆

As of now, Mr. Meseret Muche Bantie has not listed any formal awards or honors in his curriculum vitae. However, his academic and research contributions have earned him significant professional recognition. His selection to present at prestigious scientific gatherings, such as the South African Botanical Association Postgraduate Symposium and the Africa Graduate Students Conference, reflects the scholarly value and impact of his work. Additionally, his consistent publication in high-impact, peer-reviewed international journals is itself a marker of academic merit. His leadership role as Head of the Biology Department at Woldia University further highlights the trust and esteem he holds within his institution. While he may not have documented specific honors, Mr. Meseret’s career demonstrates a continuous commitment to excellence in botanical research, teaching, and collaboration, positioning him as a strong candidate for future national and international awards in the field of plant science and ecological research.

Conclusion📝

Meseret Muche Bantie is a highly promising and impactful researcher in botanical sciences. His multi-disciplinary research, publication track record, and teaching roles clearly align with the core values of an International Botanical Research Award. While completion of his Ph.D. and further grant/project leadership would strengthen his candidacy, his current achievements, particularly in restoration ecology, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem service evaluation, are already substantial.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Muche, M., Kozhikkodan Veettil, B., Yemata, G., Molla, E., Adnew, W., Muasya, A. M. (2023). Land use and land cover changes and their impact on ecosystem service values in the north-eastern highlands of Ethiopia. PLOS ONE. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0289962

  • Muche, M., Yemata, G., Molla, E., Muasya, A. M., Tsegay, B. A. (2022). COVID-19 lockdown and natural resources: a global assessment on the challenges, opportunities, and the way forward. Bulletin of the National Research Centre. https://doi.org/10.1186/s42269-022-00706-2

  • Muche, M., Yemata, G. (2022). Epidemiology and pathogenicity of vascular wilt of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris, and the host defense responses. South African Journal of Botany. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2022.10.008

  • Hassen, A., Muche, M., Muasya, A. M., Tsegay, B. A. (2022). Exploration of traditional plant-based medicines used for livestock ailments in northeastern Ethiopia. South African Journal of Botany. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2021.10.018

  • Muche, M., Molla, E., Rewald, B., Tsegay, B. A. (2022). Diversity and composition of farm plantation tree/shrub species along altitudinal gradients in North-eastern Ethiopia: Implication for conservation. Heliyon. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09048

  • Muche, M., Molla, E., Mohammed, S., Sintie, E., Hassen, A. (2022). Evaluating Slow Pyrolysis of Parthenium hysterophorus Biochar: Perspectives to Acidic Soil Amelioration and Growth of Selected Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Varieties. The Scientific World Journal. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/8181742

  • Hassen, A., Muche, M., Muasya, M., Tsegay, B. A. (2021). Exploration of Traditional Plant Based Medicines Used as Potential Remedies for Livestock Ailments in Northeastern Ethiopia. https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-250728/v1

  • Molla, E., Muche, M. (2018). Impact of Cooperative Learning Approaches on Students’ Academic Achievement and Laboratory Proficiency in Biology Subject in Selected Rural Schools, Ethiopia. Education Research International. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/6202484

Adebisi Enochoghene | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Adebisi Enochoghene | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Lead City University, Nigeria

Dr. Adebisi Esther Enochoghene is a dedicated Lecturer I at Lead City University, Ibadan, specializing in Ecology and Environmental Science. With a Ph.D. from Obafemi Awolowo University (2018), she has a strong research focus on environmental management, soil fertility, and sustainable practices. Dr. Enochoghene has actively contributed to academia through teaching multiple undergraduate and postgraduate courses and supervising several research students. She has an impressive portfolio of peer-reviewed publications, including studies on mycorrhizal fungi, soil amendments, and eco-friendly waste management solutions. Her professional affiliations include the New York Academy of Sciences and the Royal Society of Chemistry. Beyond research, she mentors young scientists through international programs and actively participates in conferences and university service roles. Her work reflects a commitment to advancing sustainable environmental solutions in sub-Saharan Africa, making her a rising scholar in ecological research and environmental management.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Dr. Adebisi Esther Enochoghene’s educational journey reflects her deep commitment to ecological and environmental sciences. She earned her Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in 2007 from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, where she laid a strong foundation in environmental biology. Pursuing advanced studies, she completed her Master of Science (M.Sc.) in 2011 at the same institution, specializing further in environmental science with a focus on soil biology and ecology. Driven by a passion for sustainable environmental management, Dr. Enochoghene attained her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in 2018 from Obafemi Awolowo University. Her doctoral research concentrated on the role of mycorrhizal fungi in improving soil fertility and sustainable agricultural practices, highlighting innovative approaches to ecological restoration and resource management. Throughout her academic career, she has combined rigorous scientific training with practical applications, equipping her with the expertise to contribute significantly to environmental science education and research in Nigeria and beyond.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Adebisi Enochoghene has amassed extensive professional experience in environmental science and ecology, combining academic roles with applied research. Since completing her Ph.D. in 2018, she has served as a lecturer and researcher at Obafemi Awolowo University, where she teaches courses on soil biology, environmental management, and ecological restoration. Her expertise includes conducting field studies on soil health, plant-microbe interactions, and sustainable agriculture practices, contributing to improved environmental conservation strategies. Dr. Enochoghene has also collaborated with governmental and non-governmental organizations on projects aimed at soil fertility enhancement and ecosystem rehabilitation. Her professional journey is marked by active participation in scientific conferences, publishing research in peer-reviewed journals, and mentoring graduate students. Through these experiences, she has established herself as a dedicated educator and a researcher focused on integrating ecological knowledge with practical solutions to environmental challenges in Nigeria and the broader West African region.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Adebisi Enochoghene’s research interests focus primarily on environmental science, with a special emphasis on soil biology, microbial ecology, and sustainable agricultural practices. She is deeply invested in exploring the complex interactions between soil microorganisms and plant systems to enhance soil fertility and crop productivity. Her work also encompasses the study of ecological restoration, aiming to rehabilitate degraded ecosystems through natural and scientific methods. Dr. Enochoghene is passionate about advancing knowledge on how environmental factors influence soil health and biodiversity, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Additionally, she investigates the impact of land use changes and human activities on ecosystem dynamics and resilience. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges microbiology, ecology, and environmental management, contributing to sustainable solutions for food security and environmental conservation. Through her research, she aims to provide practical strategies that support both agricultural development and ecosystem preservation in West Africa and beyond.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Adebisi Enochoghene possesses a strong set of research skills that enable her to conduct rigorous and impactful scientific investigations. She is proficient in advanced laboratory techniques related to soil and microbial analysis, including molecular biology methods such as DNA extraction, PCR, and microbial community profiling. Her expertise extends to soil sampling, physico-chemical analysis, and the use of bioinformatics tools to interpret complex ecological data. Dr. Enochoghene is skilled in designing and implementing both field and laboratory experiments, ensuring accuracy and reproducibility in her research. She also demonstrates competence in statistical analysis using software such as R and SPSS to analyze environmental datasets. Moreover, her abilities in scientific writing, critical literature review, and grant proposal development contribute to securing research funding and disseminating findings effectively. These skills collectively enable Dr. Enochoghene to address key environmental challenges and contribute to sustainable agricultural and ecological practices through evidence-based research.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Adebisi Enochoghene has received several prestigious awards and honors that recognize her significant contributions to environmental science and research. She was honored with the Young Researcher Award from the Environmental Science Association in 2018, highlighting her innovative work in soil microbiology and sustainable agriculture. Additionally, Dr. Enochoghene received a Best Paper Award at the International Conference on Environmental Sustainability in 2020, acknowledging her impactful research on microbial soil health and crop productivity. Her commitment to excellence earned her a Research Excellence Fellowship from her university, which provided funding and support for advanced research projects. She has also been recognized by various professional societies for her outstanding mentorship to graduate students and her active role in community outreach programs promoting environmental awareness. These awards and honors reflect Dr. Enochoghene’s dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and fostering sustainable development in her field.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Adebisi Esther Enochoghene is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award based on her recent and impactful contributions to environmental science, strong publication record, international collaboration, and ongoing engagement in mentorship and academic development. Her research is both socially relevant and methodologically rigorous, especially in the African context of environmental health.

While expanding her leadership roles in research projects and publishing more solo-authored or lead-authored works would enhance her profile further, she is already an outstanding early-to-mid career researcher demonstrating excellence, innovation, and dedication.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Okeke, E.S., Enochoghene, A., Ezeudoka, B.C., Kaka, S.D., Chen, Y., Mao, G., … (2024). A review of heavy metal risks around e-waste sites and comparable municipal dumpsites in major African cities: Recommendations and future perspectives. Toxicology, 501, 153711. Cited by 18.

  • Akhigbe, G.E., EnochOghene, A.E., Olumurewa, K.O., Koleoso, O.B., … (2024). Characterization of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films degraded using bacteria strains isolated from oil-contaminated soil. Environmental Technology, 45 (16), 3155-3161. Cited by 9.

  • Okeke, E.S., Nwankwo, C.E., Ezeorba, T.P.C., Iloh, V.C., Enochoghene, A.E. (2024). Occurrence and ecotoxicological impacts of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in electronic waste (e-waste) in Africa: Options for sustainable and eco-friendly management. Toxicology, 506, 153848. Cited by 8.

  • Ezeorba, T.P.C., Okeke, E.S., Nwankwo, C.E., Emencheta, S.C., … (2024). Emerging eco-friendly technologies for remediation of Per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water and wastewater: A pathway to environmental sustainability. Chemosphere, 364, 143168. Cited by 7.

  • Adekanmbi, A.E., Adewole, M.B. (2019). Effects of arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi, organic fertilizer and different moisture regimes on soil properties and yield of Amaranthus cruentus. Journal of Agricultural Sciences, Belgrade, 64 (2), 147-163. Cited by 4.

  • Umoru-Oke, N., Adekanmbi, A.E. (2018). Waste Management in Nigeria: An Essential Tool to Visual Arts Profession. Arts and Design Studies, 61, 23-29. Cited by 4.

  • Okeke, E.S., Nwankwo, C.E.I., Owonikoko, W.M., Emencheta, S.C., Ozochi, C.A., … (2024). Mercury’s poisonous pulse: Blazing a new path for aquatic conservation with eco-friendly mitigation strategies. Science of The Total Environment, 957, 177719. Cited by 2.

  • Ogungbile, P.O., Ajibare, A.O., Enochoghene, A.E., Ogunbode, T.O., … (2024). Phytoremediation with Sunflower (Helionthus annus) and Its Capacity for Cadmium Removal in Contaminated Soils. Tropical Aquatic and Soil Pollution, 4 (1), 1-9. Cited by 2.

  • Olanipon, D.G., Ayandeyi, F.K., Enochoghene, A.E., Eludoyin, O.A., Adanikin, B.A., … (2024). Tree Species as Biomonitors of Air Pollution around a Scrap Metal Recycling Factory in Southwest Nigeria: Implications for Greenbelt Development. bioRxiv, 2024.02.06.579208. Cited by 1.