Saeedeh Zarbakhsh | Horticulture | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Saeedeh Zarbakhsh | Horticulture | Young Scientist Award

Postdoc Researcher at University of Tehran, Iran

Dr. Saeedeh Zarbakhsh is an emerging scientist in the field of plant sciences, specializing in plant responses to abiotic stress, in vitro culture, and physiological adaptations under controlled environmental conditions. Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Tehran, she integrates conventional plant biology with modern computational techniques, including machine learning, to optimize crop performance under artificial lighting. With 17 publications in reputable journals and editorial appointments in the Plant Stress journal, she is building a notable academic presence. Her research contributions span tissue culture innovations, postharvest physiology, and predictive modeling in plant science. She is also actively engaged in academic instruction and workshop facilitation, bridging theory and practice for students and stakeholders. Her interdisciplinary approach, combining plant physiology with data science, places her at the forefront of sustainable agriculture research, especially under climate change and resource-limited conditions.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Zarbakhsh holds a Ph.D. in Plant Physiology, during which she investigated the in vitro and in vivo modulation of drought and salinity stress in pomegranate using gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Her M.Sc. research focused on postharvest quality and the effects of gamma irradiation on date fruit cultivars, reflecting an early interest in crop resilience and food preservation. She has cultivated a research foundation rooted in plant stress biology, supported by strong academic training in physiology, tissue culture, and postharvest technology. Her education has not only been focused on fundamental sciences but also geared toward practical applications in agriculture and food security. This strong academic base has equipped her with the theoretical knowledge and technical skill set necessary for interdisciplinary and applied plant research.

Professional Experience💼

Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Tehran, Dr. Zarbakhsh is working on machine learning-based modeling of plant traits under artificial light conditions, using basil as a model crop. She has previously served as a lecturer at various universities in Iran, delivering courses in plant physiology, stress biology, and tissue culture. Her professional background also includes organizing and leading workshops for researchers and practitioners, thereby extending her influence beyond academia. In addition to academic roles, her postdoctoral research includes a consultancy aspect, translating lab results into practical, scalable systems for controlled-environment agriculture. Her work environment emphasizes collaboration, multidisciplinary integration, and problem-solving—traits that are evident in her current and past research projects.

Research Interest🔬

Dr. Zarbakhsh’s primary research interests lie in plant stress physiology, controlled-environment agriculture, in vitro propagation, and postharvest biology. She is particularly focused on how plants respond to abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and artificial light conditions. Her recent postdoctoral work integrates machine learning to predict and optimize photosynthesis, morphology, and crop yield, which shows her commitment to innovation. Her research also explores the physiological mechanisms of plant resilience, biostimulant applications, and enhancing crop quality during postharvest handling. By applying both classical physiological approaches and modern computational tools, she aims to develop sustainable solutions for global agriculture, especially under climate and resource pressures.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Zarbakhsh possesses a diverse set of research skills that span experimental plant biology, in vitro tissue culture, gas exchange analysis, fluorescence imaging, and controlled-environment system design. Her proficiency in using machine learning algorithms to interpret complex physiological datasets is a unique strength in her field. She is experienced in designing experiments involving drought/salinity simulations, stress biomarker quantification, and statistical modeling. Furthermore, she has hands-on expertise in artificial lighting protocols for plant growth and understands both plant-environment interactions and computational optimization. Her skill set is enriched by her ability to communicate findings through scientific writing and peer-reviewed publications.

Awards and Honors🏆

While specific awards are not listed in her profile, Dr. Saeedeh Zarbakhsh holds multiple editorial positions, including Guest Editor for a Special Issue on biostimulants in the Plant Stress journal and Junior Editor since 2024. These appointments reflect peer recognition of her scientific competence and subject expertise. Her selection for a competitive postdoctoral research project also serves as a mark of merit. With her growing body of publications and contributions to scholarly literature, she is positioning herself for future accolades, particularly in the domains of plant stress physiology and sustainable agriculture.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Saeedeh Zarbakhsh is a promising early-career researcher with strong interdisciplinary skills, a growing scientific publication record, and demonstrated leadership in both research and outreach. Her innovative postdoctoral work using AI for predicting plant performance under artificial light stands out as cutting-edge.

Publications Top Noted📚

 

  • 2019 – Influence of postharvest gamma irradiation on the antioxidant system, microbial and shelf life quality of three cultivars of date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, S. Rastegar
    Journal: Scientia Horticulturae 247, 275-286
    Citations: 50

  • 2023 – Exogenous γ-aminobutyric acid improves the photosynthesis efficiency, soluble sugar contents, and mineral nutrients in pomegranate plants exposed to drought, salinity, and …
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, A.R. Shahsavar
    Journal: BMC Plant Biology 23 (1), 543
    Citations: 42

  • 2018 – Biochemical, physiological changes and antioxidant responses of cut gladiolus flower ‘White Prosperity’ induced by nitric oxide
    Authors: H. Kazemzadeh-Beneh, D. Samsampour, S. Zarbakhsh
    Journal: Advances in Horticultural Science 32 (3), 421-432
    Citations: 17

  • 2020 – Quality preservation of minimally processed pomegranate cv. Jahrom arils based on chitosan and organic acid edible coatings
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, H. Kazemzadeh‐Beneh, S. Rastegar
    Journal: Journal of Food Safety 40 (2), e12752
    Citations: 16

  • 2024 – Predicting and optimizing reactive oxygen species metabolism in Punica granatum L. through machine learning: role of exogenous GABA on antioxidant enzyme …
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, A.R. Shahsavar, A. Afaghi, M. Hasanuzzaman
    Journal: BMC Plant Biology 24 (1), 65
    Citations: 15

  • 2022 – Artificial neural network-based model to predict the effect of γ-aminobutyric acid on salinity and drought responsive morphological traits in pomegranate
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, A.R. Shahsavar
    Journal: Scientific Reports 12 (1), 16662
    Citations: 13

  • 2024 – Optimizing PGRs for in vitro shoot proliferation of pomegranate with bayesian-tuned ensemble stacking regression and NSGA-II: a comparative evaluation of machine learning models
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, A.R. Shahsavar, M. Soltani
    Journal: Plant Methods 20 (1), 82
    Citations: 4

  • 2017 – The Effect of Salicylic Acid and Gum Arabic on Some Qualitative and Quantitative Characteristics of Ziziphus mauritiana Lam During Storage
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, S. Rastegar
    Journal: Journal of Food Technology and Nutrition 14 (254), 87-98
    Citations: 4

Adebisi Enochoghene | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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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.

Recommendation: Strongly recommended for the award.

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.

Jesse Kosgei | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Jesse Kosgei | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Fisheries and Coral Ecology Technical Lead at Wildlife Conservation Society, Kenya

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei is an accomplished marine ecologist and fisheries scientist with over a decade of experience in science-based conservation. He holds a Master’s degree in Fisheries from Pwani University and currently serves as the Technical Lead for Fisheries and Coral Ecology at the Wildlife Conservation Society – Kenya Marine Program. His expertise lies in small-scale fisheries, coral reef ecology, and the socioeconomics of marine resource use. Jesse has made significant contributions to ecological research, sustainable fisheries management, and data-driven conservation strategies across Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique. He has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications addressing pressing issues like climate change, resource sustainability, and fisheries policy. In addition to research, he plays a vital role in mentoring junior scientists, managing long-term datasets, and supporting global marine initiatives. Passionate about practical conservation solutions, Jesse combines technical skills, leadership, and regional collaboration to advance ecosystem resilience and community livelihoods in the Western Indian Ocean.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei has a solid academic foundation in marine and fisheries sciences. He earned a Master of Science degree in Fisheries from Pwani University in Mombasa, Kenya, where he specialized in sustainable fisheries management and ecological research. Prior to that, he completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Coastal and Marine Resource Management at Kenyatta University in Nairobi, gaining comprehensive knowledge in marine ecosystems, conservation, and coastal resource use. To further enhance his technical capabilities, Jesse has pursued several professional certifications, including Social Safeguards and Community Engagement from the Wildlife Conservation Society, R Programming from Macquarie University, and Practical Tools in Quantitative Fisheries Stock Assessment from the University of Florida and Pwani University. He is also a certified diver through the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), which supports his field research activities. His educational background reflects both academic excellence and a commitment to continuous learning in applied marine science.

Professional Experience 💼

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei has over a decade of professional experience in marine conservation, fisheries science, and ecological research. Since 2015, he has served as the Fisheries and Coral Ecologist Technical Lead at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) – Kenya Marine Program, where he leads research initiatives, develops conservation strategies, and mentors junior scientists. His work spans Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique, involving the design and implementation of ecological and socioeconomic monitoring programs. Jesse manages and analyzes over 30 years of data on coral reefs, fish, and sea urchins, applying advanced statistical and machine learning tools to inform conservation policies. Prior to WCS, he worked as a Research Assistant at the Kenya Fisheries Service, where he managed fish catch data and supported national fisheries assessments. He also gained early field experience as an intern at the Kenya Marine Fisheries Research Institute. His professional journey demonstrates a deep commitment to data-driven, impact-oriented marine conservation.

Research Interest 🔬

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei’s research interests center on marine ecology, small-scale fisheries, and the human dimensions of marine resource management. He is particularly focused on the sustainable use and conservation of coral reef ecosystems in the Western Indian Ocean. His work aims to establish ecological baselines, assess the impacts of fishing practices, and set sustainable fisheries targets that align with ecosystem health and community livelihoods. Jesse is also interested in the integration of socioeconomic data with ecological indicators to inform holistic, adaptive marine management strategies. He has explored topics such as bycatch reduction, the effects of gear subsidies, fisheries responses to environmental and policy changes, and the role of compliance in conservation outcomes. His research combines field-based data collection, long-term monitoring, and advanced analytics, including machine learning, to generate practical solutions for fisheries sustainability. Ultimately, his goal is to support science-based policies that enhance ecosystem resilience and benefit coastal communities.

Research Skill🔎

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei possesses a diverse and robust set of research skills that span ecological fieldwork, data analysis, and conservation planning. He is highly proficient in designing and implementing ecological and socioeconomic surveys related to coral reef health, fisheries, and coastal resource use. His expertise includes managing and analyzing complex datasets, including over 30 years of historical ecological data, using advanced statistical tools and machine learning techniques. Jesse is skilled in programming with R, enabling him to conduct quantitative stock assessments and generate data-driven insights to inform fisheries management. He has experience in digitizing monitoring tools and developing innovative approaches to track and assess conservation outcomes. Additionally, his diving certification enhances his ability to conduct in situ marine ecosystem assessments. Jesse is also adept at producing peer-reviewed scientific publications and technical reports, contributing to both academic knowledge and practical policy guidance. His research skills reflect strong analytical, technical, and field-based capabilities.

Award and Honor🏆

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei’s profile does not list formal awards or honors, his career achievements and contributions reflect significant professional recognition and impact within the marine conservation and fisheries science community. Serving as the Technical Lead for Fisheries and Coral Ecology at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) – Kenya Marine Program is itself a testament to his leadership and expertise. His co-authorship in high-impact peer-reviewed journals alongside internationally respected scientists demonstrates the high regard for his research contributions. Jesse has also played key roles in regional and global conservation initiatives, and his mentorship of students and young scientists adds to his professional standing. His involvement in long-term ecological monitoring, data management, and sustainable fisheries strategies has made him a valued contributor to evidence-based environmental policy. While not yet formally decorated with awards, his growing influence and proven track record make him a strong candidate for future honors and recognitions in the field.

Conclusion📝

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei is a highly qualified and impactful researcher whose work has made meaningful contributions to marine conservation and sustainable fisheries management in East Africa. His scientific rigor, leadership, and applied research make him a strong contender for a Best Researcher Award. However, greater visibility through first-author publications, academic affiliations, and recognized honors would further solidify his candidacy.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Coral reef fish communities, diversity, and their fisheries and biodiversity status in East Africa
    Author(s): TR McClanahan
    Journal: Marine Ecology Progress Series
    Year: 2019
    Cited by: 41

  • Improving sustainable yield estimates for tropical reef fisheries
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, MK Azali
    Journal: Fish and Fisheries
    Year: 2020
    Cited by: 20

  • Community biomass and life history benchmarks for coral reef fisheries
    Author(s): TR McClanahan
    Journal: Fish and Fisheries
    Year: 2018
    Cited by: 19

  • Perceptions of governance effectiveness and fisheries restriction options in a climate refugia
    Author(s): T McClanahan, C Abunge
    Journal: Biological Conservation
    Year: 2020
    Cited by: 16

  • Outcomes of gear and closure subsidies in artisanal coral reef fisheries
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Conservation Science and Practice
    Year: 2019
    Cited by: 16

  • Redistribution of benefits but not detection in a fisheries bycatch-reduction management initiative
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Conservation Biology
    Year: 2018
    Cited by: 13

  • Low optimal fisheries yield creates challenges for sustainability in a climate refugia
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Conservation Science and Practice
    Year: 2023
    Cited by: 7

  • Fish catch responses to Covid-19 disease curfews dependent on compliance, fisheries management, and environmental contexts
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, MK Azali, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Marine Policy
    Year: 2022
    Cited by: 5

  • Challenges to managing fisheries with high inter-community variability on the Kenya-Tanzania border
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, RM Oddenyo, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Current Research in Environmental Sustainability
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: 3

  • Fisheries sustainability eroded by lost catch proportionality in a coral reef seascape
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei, AT Humphries
    Journal: Sustainability
    Year: 2025
    Cited by: 1

  • Variation in coral reef fisheries production, employment, and living wage goals
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei
    Journal: [Not specified]
    Year: 2025
    Cited by: Not listed

  • Challenges of Implementing Fisheries and Coastal Management Policies in Climate Refuge on an International Boundary
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, RM Oddenyo, JK Kosgei
    Journal: SSRN (Preprint)
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: Not listed

  • Fisheries Sustainability Eroded by the Loss of Vulnerable Dominant Taxa and Insufficient Compensatory Production in a Coral Reef Seascape
    Author(s): T McClanahan, JK Kosgei, AT Humphries
    Journal: MDPI AG
    Year: [Not specified]
    Cited by: Not listed

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

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

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