Jesse Kosgei | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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

Muhammad Saqlain | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Muhammad Saqlain | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

PhD at Sichuan Agricultural University Chengdu Campus, Pakistan

Mr. Muhammad Saqlain is a dedicated and emerging researcher in the field of plant biology, with a strong focus on abiotic stress physiology and sustainable agriculture. Holding an M.Phil. in Botany from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad with distinction (CGPA 3.91), he has demonstrated academic excellence and research capability. His thesis investigated the role of salicylic acid and nanoparticles in mitigating salt stress in wheat, highlighting his interest in practical solutions for crop improvement. As a Research Assistant in the Stress Physiology Lab at UAF, he gained hands-on experience in advanced biochemical and physiological techniques, as well as statistical data analysis. He has presented his findings at international conferences and co-authored a chapter in a Springer-published volume on climate-resilient agriculture. Muhammad is proficient in multiple research tools and committed to advancing plant science through further research and academic engagement. His work reflects both scientific curiosity and a strong potential for future contributions.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Mr. Muhammad Saqlain has pursued a solid academic path in the field of Botany, marked by consistent performance and a strong commitment to scientific learning. He earned his M.Phil. in Botany from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (2020–2022) with a remarkable CGPA of 3.91 out of 4.00. His thesis focused on the amelioration of salt stress in wheat using salicylic acid and magnetite nanoparticles, showcasing his interest in stress physiology and sustainable crop improvement. Prior to this, he completed his M.Sc. in Botany from Government College University Faisalabad (2018–2020), achieving a CGPA of 3.64 out of 4.00. He obtained his B.Sc. from Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, and his Intermediate and Matriculation from BISE DG Khan, maintaining respectable academic records throughout. His educational background reflects both depth in plant sciences and a strong foundation in biological research, positioning him well for advanced studies and scientific contributions in plant biology.

Professional Experience 💼

Mr. Muhammad Saqlain has gained valuable professional experience in both academic research and teaching roles. Since November 2022, he has been serving as a Biology Teacher and Lab Coordinator at Millat Science School in Pahar Pur, District Layyah, Punjab, where he is responsible for managing laboratory activities and delivering biology lessons. Previously, during 2021–2022, he worked as a Research Assistant in the Stress Physiology Lab at the Department of Botany, University of Agriculture Faisalabad. In this role, he actively contributed to various research projects focused on plant responses to abiotic stress. He demonstrated expertise in laboratory techniques such as spectrophotometry, gas exchange measurements, chlorophyll content analysis, and antioxidant assays. Additionally, he utilized statistical tools like SPSS and R-Studio for data analysis. This combination of research and teaching experience highlights his strong technical skills, organizational abilities, and dedication to advancing knowledge in plant biology and stress physiology.

Research Interest 🔬

Mr. Muhammad Saqlain’s research interests lie at the intersection of plant physiology, stress biology, and sustainable agriculture. He is particularly focused on understanding the mechanisms of abiotic stress tolerance in plants, with an emphasis on improving crop resilience under challenging environmental conditions such as salinity and drought. His work involves the identification and functional screening of key genes involved in stress responses, alongside the application of modern techniques such as genome editing and plant tissue culture. He is also keenly interested in enhancing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in crops to support environmentally sustainable farming practices. Mr. Saqlain is passionate about integrating physiological, biochemical, and molecular tools to explore the role of plant growth regulators, nanoparticles, and microbial interactions in stress mitigation. His goal is to contribute innovative, science-based solutions for improving crop productivity and stress tolerance, addressing global food security challenges through advanced plant research and biotechnology.

Award and Honor🏆

Mr. Muhammad Saqlain has received several awards and honors that reflect his academic dedication, creative talents, and active engagement in extracurricular development. In 2014, he was awarded a laptop under the national youth scheme in recognition of his academic performance at the matriculation level. In 2018, he won a provincial-level essay writing competition, showcasing his communication skills and critical thinking. The same year, he earned a certificate in Computer Application and Office Professional skills through the Chief Minister’s Project, enhancing his technical competency. During his time at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, he was an active member of the UAF Calligraphy Fine & Arts Society, contributing creatively to university events and team projects. In 2023, he successfully completed the e-Rozgaar training program in “Creative Designing,” further broadening his skill set. These achievements underline his multifaceted personality, combining academic excellence with creativity, teamwork, and a continuous drive for personal and professional development.

Research Skill🔎

Mr. Muhammad Saqlain possesses a diverse and well-developed set of research skills in the field of plant biology, particularly related to plant stress physiology. He is proficient in a range of laboratory techniques, including spectrophotometry for metabolite and antioxidant enzyme analysis, as well as chromatography and microscopy for detailed cellular investigations. His expertise also extends to anatomical methods such as tissue sectioning, staining, and imaging, which are essential for understanding plant structure under stress conditions. Additionally, he is skilled in managing controlled experiments in greenhouse and growth chamber settings. Mr. Saqlain demonstrates strong competency in data analysis using statistical software such as SPSS, R-Studio, STATISTIX-10, and COSTAT, and he is also experienced in reference management tools like EndNote. His ability to design experiments, interpret results, and present scientific findings effectively positions him as a capable and resourceful researcher, well-prepared for advanced studies and collaborative research projects in plant science.

Conclusion📝

Muhammad Saqlain is a highly promising early-career researcher with a solid academic record, relevant research experience, and evident dedication to the field of plant biology. His work on abiotic stress and crop resilience is of real-world importance, and his active participation in research presentations and publishing shows commitment.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Li, Y., Peng, H., Zhang, H., Li, L., Saqlain, M., Wu, D., Zhu, W., Xu, L., Cheng, Y., …
    (2025)
    Wheat-Psathyrostachys huashanica 4Ns Additional Line Confers Resistance to Fusarium Head Blight
    Published in: Plants, 14(7), 1104

  • Saqlain, M., Bibi, S., Mahmood, A., Zia, M. A., Javaid, M. M., Nargis, J.
    (2023)
    Mitigation of Plant Abiotic Stress by Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria, Hormones, and Plant Extracts
    Published in: Climate-Resilient Agriculture, Vol. 2: Agro-Biotechnological Advancement for Crop Production