Samuel Umma | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Samuel Umma | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria

Dr. Samuel Bem Umma is a dedicated researcher and academician in the field of Fisheries and Aquaculture with over a decade of experience in teaching, research, and academic service. Based at the Federal University Wukari, Nigeria, he has made substantial contributions to sustainable aquaculture through studies on fish nutrition, microbial feed additives, aquatic toxicology, and fish health. His research promotes alternatives to synthetic antibiotics, particularly using bioactive compounds from Escherichia coli and indigenous plants. With over 20 published research papers, several conference presentations, and a book chapter with Springer, Dr. Umma exemplifies interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. His teaching portfolio spans multiple courses across undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and he actively contributes to curriculum development and departmental responsibilities. Committed to advancing fisheries science in Africa, he is affiliated with major professional bodies such as the World Aquaculture Society and the Fisheries Society of Nigeria. Dr. Umma continues to champion sustainable aquaculture practices and environmental resilience.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Samuel Bem Umma holds a strong academic background in Fisheries and Aquaculture. He obtained his Bachelor of Fisheries (B.Fisheries) in 2010 from the University of Maiduguri, Nigeria. He pursued further specialization by completing his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Fisheries and Aquaculture at the University of Ibadan in 2013. Recently, in 2024, he earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in the same field from the University of Ibadan, one of Nigeria’s leading institutions. His academic journey is marked by a consistent focus on aquatic ecosystems, sustainable aquaculture systems, and fish nutrition, forming the theoretical and practical foundation of his current research pursuits. This educational progression reflects both his academic commitment and long-term investment in enhancing aquaculture research and practice in Nigeria and beyond. His education has equipped him with a multidisciplinary understanding of aquatic health, nutrition, toxicology, and biotechnology—all of which are central to his professional and research work.

Professional Experience

Dr. Umma began his academic career in 2015 as a Lecturer at the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. Over the past decade, he has taught more than 20 specialized courses, including Fish Nutrition, Limnology, Aquatic Toxicology, Fish Genetics, Fish Biochemistry, and Advanced Aquaculture. He has served in multiple administrative roles such as Acting Head of Department, Departmental Examination Officer, SIWES Coordinator, and Secretary of the Postgraduate Committee. He has actively participated in departmental curriculum review, project guideline development, and student advising across all academic levels. His contributions extend to the organization of departmental resources, faculty IGR initiatives, and quality assurance in teaching and learning. Beyond classroom instruction, Dr. Umma’s hands-on involvement in research and academic leadership demonstrates a well-rounded professional commitment to both education and fisheries research, which is essential for capacity building in Nigerian aquaculture and higher education.

Research Interests

Dr. Umma’s research interests lie primarily in fish health and nutrition, aquatic toxicology, microbial biotechnology, and phytogenic feed additives. His work is at the intersection of sustainability, biotechnology, and aquaculture, with a focus on reducing antibiotic use in fish farming through natural alternatives. He explores the use of bioactive metabolite extracts from non-pathogenic Escherichia coli and plant-based compounds such as Heinsia crinita to improve fish immunity, growth, and environmental safety. His studies often incorporate water quality analysis, heavy metal bioaccumulation, and the impact of feed formulations on fish physiology. Furthermore, he is interested in optimizing aquaculture systems for rural and commercial fisheries in West Africa. His research aligns with global efforts toward sustainable food systems, addressing both productivity and environmental protection. He also contributes to understanding fish population dynamics, hatchery techniques, and post-harvest preservation—all vital for improving aquaculture output and food security in developing regions.

Research Skills

Dr. Umma possesses a diverse array of research skills that span aquatic sampling, nutrient analysis, microbial screening, toxicological assays, and fish growth performance trials. He is proficient in designing and conducting controlled feeding experiments using plant-based and microbial supplements, evaluating fish health via haematological and biochemical assays. His technical abilities include zooplankton biomass estimation, bioaccumulation studies of heavy metals, and water quality assessments under varying ecological conditions. He is experienced in formulating experimental fish diets and measuring feed conversion efficiency, survival rates, and immune responses. Dr. Umma also has advanced capabilities in data analysis using statistical software, scholarly writing, and scientific communication. His recent collaborative studies show his strength in interdisciplinary research, combining aquaculture with microbial biotechnology and pharmacology. He is adept at publishing in peer-reviewed journals and preparing research findings for conference presentations. These competencies position him as a capable and evolving researcher in sustainable fisheries science.

Awards and Honors

While Dr. Samuel Bem Umma has not yet received major international research awards, his growing academic record and recent Ph.D. conferment in 2024 mark significant milestones in his career. His selection as a speaker and presenter at national and regional conferences, such as the World Aquaculture Society (African Chapter), Aquaculture Ghana, and National Biotechnology Research Conference, reflects peer recognition of his work in sustainable aquaculture. He has also contributed a book chapter published by Springer—a notable academic achievement that demonstrates international engagement. Additionally, his research on plant-based diets and microbial metabolites in fish farming is gaining scholarly attention, as indicated by recent publications in indexed journals and a patent under process. As a member of professional bodies like FISON, ANIFS, and WAS, he is recognized within his field and continues to build his academic visibility and leadership. These achievements collectively position him as an emerging scholar of promise in fisheries research.

Conclusion

Dr. Samuel Bem Umma demonstrates solid credentials and emerging excellence in fisheries and aquaculture research. His work is particularly impactful in sustainable fish production and microbial therapeutics — areas of critical importance to food security and environmental sustainability. While certain metrics such as citation impact and international funding could be improved, his interdisciplinary innovation, growing publication record, and commitment to academic development make him a suitable and promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Noted

  • Adeshina I., Sani R.A., Adewale Y.A., Tiamiyu L.O., Umma S.B. (2018)
    Effects of dietary Moringa oleifera leaf meal as a replacement for soybean meal on growth, body composition and health status in Cyprinus carpio juveniles
    Croatian Journal of Fisheries 76(4), 174–182Cited by: 39

  • Umma S.B., Iyiola A.O., Adeshina I. (2023)
    Relationship pattern of enteric bacterial load and assessed micronutrients in the gut of Clarias gariepinus fish sampled in the Ibadan municipal zone
    Journal of Basic and Applied Zoology 84(1):23Cited by: 5

  • Adeshina I., Umma S.B., Adesanmi O., Adewale Y.A. (2016)
    Distribution of bacteria load in fish tissues, pond water and sediment in Oyo State, NigeriaCited by: 2

  • Olukunle O., Umma S.B. (2016)
    Evaluation of African Catfish Clarias gariepinus Responses to Graded Levels of Zinc Practical Diet
    African Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management 1, 90Cited by: 2

  • Paray B.A., Adeshina I., Bhat E.A., Raji A., Umma S.B., Alliy R.O., Tiamiyu L.O. (2024)
    Effect of dietary Lagnaria breviflora leaves extract on African catfish juveniles
    J. Anim. Physiol. Anim. Nutr. 108(4):1164–1175Cited by: 1

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Umma S.B. (2017)
    Assessment of Heavy Metal Bioaccumulation in Wild Fish
    American Journal of Agricultural Science 4(2):23–28Cited by: 1

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Umma S.B. (2017)
    Sarotherodon melanotheron from Alaro Stream in Ibadan, Nigeria
    American Journal of Agricultural Science 4(6):120–125Cited by: 1

  • Ogunremi J.B., Sadiq H.O., Umma S.B., Oshimagye M.I. (2016)
    Perception on acceptability of extension agents among rural fish farmers
    Nigerian Journal of Fisheries and Aquaculture 4(1):59–62Cited by: 1

  • Umma S.B., Agbeja Y.E., Iyiola A.O. (2025)
    Sustainable Extraction and Production of Raw Materials for Bio-based Products in the Global South
    Book Chapter – Springer

  • Iyiola A.O., Kolawole A.S., Umma S.B., Iriobe T. (2024)
    Length-weight relationship of Oreochromis niloticus and Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus
    Aceh Journal of Animal Science 9(2):53–59

  • Umma S.B., Agbeja Y.E., Oyebola O.O., Ametefe G.D. (2024)
    Growth optimization and metabolite yield of non-pathogenic Escherichia coli from African catfish gut
    Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research 23(12):2079–2087

  • Umma S.B., Ujah S., Gani B., Agu R.Z. (2023)
    Bacteriological diversity of organs of three fish species from Nigerian rivers
    Nigerian Journal of Fisheries 20(1)

  • Umma S.B., Adeshina I., Samuel S., Poirmozaffar S. (2025)
    Growth and gut bactericidal potential of Heinsia cinita-based diet in Nile Tilapia
    Scientifica

  • Adeshina I., Bhat E.A., Fawole O.O., Paray B.A., Umma S.B., Tiamiyu L.O. (2025)
    Herbal leaves mixture extract improves growth and Gyrodactylus resistance in hybrid catfish
    Aquaculture Nutrition

  • Umma S.B., Adeshina I. (2012)
    Zooplankton production and biomass estimates in Maiduguri, Nigeria
    Int. J. of Science and Development Studies

  • Bem U.S., Omoniyi D.A., Ibagye O.M., Flourizel I., Mamndeyati U.N., Kida D.A.
    Clarias gariepinus production study

  • Iyiola A.O., Umma S.B.
    Overview of triploid fish production processes for aquaculture

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Okorie T.G., Umma B.S.
    Appraisal of heavy and trace metals in sediments and fish

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Okorie T.G., Umma B.S.
    Bioaccumulation of metals in Clarias lazera and Tilapia zilli

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Okorie T., Umma B.
    Trace metal concentration in organs of Heterotis niloticus

Sang Yeol Lee | Plant Physiology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee | Plant Physiology | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Gyeongsang National University, South Korea

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee is a renowned scientist in molecular biology, plant sciences, and biochemistry, with over 290 SCI-indexed international publications. He has made groundbreaking contributions to plant stress responses, enzymology, and cellular mechanisms. He earned his B.S. and M.S. from Seoul National University and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from KAIST, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the NIH, USA. Since 1985, he has been a professor at Gyeongsang National University, currently serving as a Distinguished Professor. His career includes research positions at Kyoto University and NIH, along with leadership roles such as President of the Korean Society for Molecular and Cellular Biology (KSMCB) and Director of the National Core Research Center (NCRC). Recognized with multiple prestigious awards, including Best Scientist honors from KAIST, KSMCB, and NAS, Prof. Lee continues to shape global scientific advancements through his research and academic leadership.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee has an extensive academic background in biochemical and life sciences. He earned his B.S. in Food Science & Engineering from Seoul National University in 1980, where he developed a strong foundation in scientific research. He then pursued an M.S. in Enzymology from the same institution, completing it in 1982, focusing on biochemical processes and enzymatic functions. To further advance his expertise, he obtained a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from KAIST in 1985, specializing in molecular and cellular biology. Seeking international exposure, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA, from 1987 to 1989, where he worked on advanced biochemical research. His educational journey across prestigious institutions equipped him with the knowledge and skills that have contributed to his outstanding research career, leading to significant advancements in molecular biology, enzymology, and plant sciences.

Professional Experience 💼

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee has had a distinguished career spanning several decades in academia and research. Since 1985, he has been a professor at Gyeongsang National University (GNU), where he currently serves as a Distinguished Professor. His international research experience includes positions as a Research Professor at Kyoto University, Japan (1990-1991), and at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA (1991-1992). He has held significant leadership roles, including serving as the Director of the National Core Research Center (NCRC) and as President of the Korean Society for Molecular and Cellular Biology (KSMCB) in 2015. Additionally, he has been an advisor and appraiser for major research organizations such as KOSEF and the Next Generation BioGreen 21 Project. His extensive contributions in research, academic leadership, and policy development have played a crucial role in advancing molecular biology, plant sciences, and biochemical research in Korea and internationally.

Research Interest 🔬

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee’s research interests lie in molecular biology, plant sciences, enzymology, and biochemical stress responses. His work focuses on understanding plant stress tolerance mechanisms, particularly in relation to oxidative stress, redox signaling, and protein function in plants. He has made significant contributions to identifying key molecular pathways that regulate plant immunity, stress adaptation, and circadian rhythms. His studies on thioredoxin proteins, peroxiredoxins, and protein chaperones have provided critical insights into how plants respond to environmental challenges such as heat, salt, and oxidative stress. Additionally, his research extends to signal transduction, kinase regulation, and epigenetic modifications in plant development and defense. With over 290 SCI-indexed publications, his work has significantly influenced plant molecular biology and agricultural biotechnology, contributing to the development of stress-resistant crops. His research continues to shape advancements in plant stress physiology and biochemical adaptation strategies in response to climate change.

Award and Honor🏆

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to molecular biology, plant sciences, and biochemistry. His achievements include the Distinguished Research Award from Gyeongsang National University (2004) and multiple Best Scientist Awards from organizations such as the Korean Society for Molecular and Cellular Biology (KSMCB), the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), and the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology (MOEST). He was also recognized as one of Korea’s Best Scientists by the Association of Korean Journalists (2004) and received The Best 100-Scientific Achievements of Korea Award (2022). His scientific leadership earned him the Distinguished Alumni Award from KAIST (2013). With a career marked by national and international accolades, Prof. Lee’s research has significantly influenced plant molecular biology, enzymology, and biotechnology, reinforcing his status as one of Korea’s most distinguished scientists in life sciences.

Research Skill🔎

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee possesses exceptional research skills in molecular biology, biochemistry, plant sciences, and enzymology. His expertise includes protein biochemistry, redox signaling, gene expression analysis, and stress physiology in plants. He has extensive experience in molecular cloning, protein purification, structural biology, and functional genomics, which he has applied to understanding plant stress responses and cellular adaptation mechanisms. His work on thioredoxin proteins, peroxiredoxins, and kinase signaling pathways has provided groundbreaking insights into oxidative stress regulation, plant immunity, and environmental stress tolerance. Additionally, he is skilled in epigenetic analysis, transcriptomics, and advanced biochemical assays, which have contributed to his over 290 SCI-indexed publications. His ability to integrate cutting-edge biochemical techniques with plant molecular biology has enabled him to make significant contributions to agricultural biotechnology, particularly in developing stress-resistant crops and understanding plant adaptation to climate change. His diverse research skill set continues to advance scientific knowledge in plant sciences.

Conclusion📝

Prof. Sang Yeol Lee is a highly accomplished researcher with exceptional contributions to molecular biology and plant sciences. His impressive publication record, leadership in scientific societies, and multiple prestigious awards strongly support his candidacy for the Best Researcher Award. While he already holds a distinguished position, enhancing international collaborations and industrial applications could further solidify his legacy. Based on his credentials, he is an excellent choice for the award.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • NTRC mediates the coupling of chloroplast redox rhythm with nuclear circadian clock in plant cellsSang-yeol Lee et al., Molecular Plant, 2025

  • FAD and NADPH binding sites of YUCCA6 are essential for chaperone activity and oxidative stress tolerance in Arabidopsis thalianaSang-yeol Lee et al., Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 2025

  • S-nitrosylation switches the Arabidopsis redox sensor protein, QSOX1, from an oxidoreductase to a molecular chaperone under heat stressSang-yeol Lee et al., Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 2024 (3 citations)

  • Functional changes of OsTrxm from reductase to molecular chaperone under heat shock stressSang-yeol Lee et al., Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 2023