Ashenafi Nigussie | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ashenafi Nigussie | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Wondo Genet Agriculture Research Center, Ethiopia Institute of Agricultural Research, Ethiopia

Dr. Ashenafi Nigussie Adafre is a highly accomplished Ethiopian soil scientist with extensive experience in sustainable agriculture, soil fertility, and integrated nutrient management. He currently serves as a Senior Researcher at the Wondo Genet Agricultural Research Center under the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR). Over the past 15 years, Dr. Nigussie has developed a solid reputation for conducting impactful research addressing critical challenges in soil health and agricultural productivity. His academic credentials include a Ph.D. in Soil Science, M.Sc. in Agronomy, and B.Sc. in Horticulture, all obtained from top Ethiopian agricultural universities. He has published more than 30 peer-reviewed journal articles and numerous conference proceedings on subjects ranging from nitrogen use efficiency and biochar application to crop responses under various soil fertility regimes. Dr. Nigussie has also played key leadership roles in national projects and external collaborations, serving as a focal person and principal investigator on donor-funded research initiatives. He has mentored postgraduate students and contributed significantly to academic publishing as an editor of national research proceedings. His scholarly and community contributions have earned him multiple recognitions, including roles on strategic committees and international evaluation panels. His career exemplifies the integration of academic excellence, research leadership, and social relevance in agricultural science.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Ashenafi Nigussie Adafre’s academic foundation is rooted in Ethiopia’s leading agricultural institutions. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture from Jimma University College of Agriculture in July 2006. Driven by a passion for crop production systems and sustainable land management, he pursued his Master’s degree in Agronomy at Hawassa University, completing it in July 2012. His research focus during the MSc involved intercropping systems and the optimization of planting densities for maize and haricot bean. This interest in soil-plant interactions guided him towards doctoral studies. In June 2022, he completed his Ph.D. in Soil Science from Hawassa University, focusing on soil characterization, nitrogen sources, tillage, and cropping systems in Ethiopia’s Central Rift Valley. His academic progression reflects a seamless evolution from plant-focused studies to advanced soil science research. Alongside his formal education, Dr. Nigussie has completed multiple certified training programs from international institutions such as Cornell University, CGIAR, and INASP. These courses, covering advanced soil health, experimental design, R-software, and academic writing, have enhanced his practical and analytical skills. His strong academic grounding, complemented by global training exposure, equips him with the technical proficiency and interdisciplinary insight required for advancing agricultural research in Ethiopia and beyond.

Professional Experience

Dr. Ashenafi Nigussie has developed a robust professional portfolio with nearly two decades of experience in agricultural research and rural development. He began his career in 2006 as a Crop Production and Coffee Expert with the Agricultural and Rural Development Office in Hadiya Zone, where he worked for six years, directly supporting farmers with production techniques and soil management. In 2012, he joined the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) at the Wondo Genet Agricultural Research Center as a researcher in soil fertility and health management. Since then, he has progressed to the rank of Senior Researcher, conducting field experiments and leading national projects focused on enhancing soil productivity. Dr. Nigussie has also held key leadership roles, including National Coordinator for Integrated and Inorganic Soil Fertility Management and Head of the Natural Resource Management Research Process. He is currently the Principal Investigator of a GIZ-funded biochar fertilizer project and has served as focal person on other externally funded soil-related initiatives. His extensive responsibilities have included research design, implementation, stakeholder coordination, and mentoring. Through these roles, he has significantly contributed to shaping national soil fertility strategies, improving local farming practices, and advancing agricultural science in Ethiopia.

Research Interests

Dr. Ashenafi Nigussie’s research interests lie at the intersection of soil science, sustainable agriculture, and integrated nutrient management. His work primarily focuses on enhancing soil fertility through the application of organic and inorganic amendments, biochar technology, and improved tillage and cropping systems. He is particularly interested in exploring how nitrogen dynamics, phosphorus availability, and soil carbon sequestration affect crop performance and long-term soil health. Dr. Nigussie has conducted extensive studies on the response of maize, wheat, barley, potato, and other key crops to various fertilization strategies across diverse soil types such as Andisols, Nitisols, and Chernozems. His research also delves into intercropping systems involving horticultural crops like rosemary, onion, and basil, highlighting productivity and ecological sustainability. In recent years, he has expanded his interest to the application of biochar and lime in managing acidic soils, the phytoremediation of heavy metals, and soil microbial biomass under different fertilization regimes. These multidimensional research pursuits are driven by the need to address soil degradation, climate resilience, and food security in Ethiopia. Dr. Nigussie’s work bridges fundamental soil science with practical solutions for smallholder farmers, making his research both scientifically rigorous and socially impactful.

Research Skills

Dr. Ashenafi Nigussie brings a diverse set of research skills spanning experimental design, statistical analysis, soil and crop nutrient diagnostics, and field-based agronomic assessments. He is proficient in designing and executing field and pot experiments with scientific rigor, employing advanced statistical methods to interpret complex soil-plant interaction data. He has completed specialized training in R-software for data analysis and has applied these tools to quantify nitrogen use efficiency, organic matter decomposition, and yield responses. His ability to manage long-term field trials, coupled with expertise in sampling and laboratory analysis of soil physicochemical properties, underpins his evidence-based research outputs. Dr. Nigussie is also skilled in proposal writing and project management, securing funding and coordinating multidisciplinary teams on national and international research initiatives. He has substantial experience in scientific writing, as evidenced by his prolific publication record in peer-reviewed journals and contributions to edited conference proceedings. Additionally, his mentorship of postgraduate students demonstrates his capacity to transfer knowledge and develop future researchers. His collaborative nature, commitment to academic integrity, and technical competency make him a well-rounded agricultural scientist equipped to tackle pressing challenges in soil health and crop productivity.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Ashenafi Nigussie has been recognized multiple times for his contributions to agricultural science and rural development in Ethiopia. He has received several certificates of appreciation and recognition from both governmental and international institutions. Notably, he was acknowledged by the International Institute of Knowledge Management for serving as an Evaluation Panel Member at the 10th International Conference on Agriculture in 2023, held in Bali, Indonesia. He has also earned recognition from regional agricultural offices, such as the West Badewacho Agricultural Office and the Arbe Gona District, for his impactful field demonstrations and contributions to farmer livelihood improvements. Within the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Dr. Nigussie has played critical roles in strategic planning, research proposal development, and capacity-building workshops. His efforts have also been appreciated in national training programs where he served as an instructor on topics like aromatic and medicinal plants. Additionally, he has completed internationally certified training programs supported by institutions like Cornell University and the World Bank, further reflecting his dedication to academic and professional excellence. These accolades highlight not just his technical expertise, but also his leadership, mentorship, and dedication to improving agricultural systems for the benefit of Ethiopian farmers.

Conclusion

Dr. Ashenafi Nigussie Adafre stands as a model of academic rigor, practical research application, and public service in the field of soil and agricultural sciences. His work is characterized by its depth, diversity, and direct alignment with Ethiopia’s agricultural development priorities. He has demonstrated a consistent ability to identify critical research problems, design innovative studies, and translate findings into solutions that benefit both policy frameworks and local farming communities. His scholarly output, including over 30 journal articles, multiple conference proceedings, and editorial responsibilities, underscores his dedication to scientific communication and knowledge dissemination. As a mentor and supervisor, he is cultivating the next generation of agricultural scientists. His leadership roles in nationally coordinated soil fertility programs and his involvement in international research collaborations reflect his influence beyond the laboratory. While there is room to enhance global visibility and interdisciplinary collaborations, his track record and ongoing projects reveal a researcher deeply committed to sustainable agricultural transformation. Recognizing Dr. Nigussie through awards and honors would not only celebrate his past achievements but also support and inspire continued innovation in Ethiopian and global agricultural research.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Effects of nitrogen application and tillage on maize (Zea mays L.) yield, nitrogen use efficiency, and nutrient stocks under contrasting soils
    Author: Ashenafi Nigussie
    Year: 2025

  2. Characterization and Identification of the Soil types Under Maize Production in the Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia
    Author: Ashenafi Nigussie
    Year: 2025

  3. Short-term Effects of Tillage, Cropping system and Nitrogen fertilization on Soil organic carbon and Total nitrogen Stocks Under Contrasting Soils
    Author: Ashenafi Nigussie
    Year: 2025

  4. Nitrogen Uptake and Use Efficiency of Maize as Affected by Tillage, Cropping System and Nitrogen Fertilization on Cambisols and Phaeozems
    Authors: Ashenafi Nigussie, Wassie Haile, Getachew Agegnehu, Alemayehu Kiflu
    Year: 2023

  5. Growth, Nitrogen Uptake of Maize (Zea mays L.) and Soil Chemical Properties, and Responses to Compost and Nitrogen Rates and Their Mixture on Different Textured Soils: Pot Experiment
    Authors: Ashenafi Nigussie, Wassie Haile, Getachew Agegnehu, Alemayehu Kiflu
    Year: 2021

  6. Grain yield and Nitrogen uptake of Maize (Zea mays L.) as affected by soil management practices and their interaction on Cambisols and Chernozem
    Authors: Ashenafi Nigussie, Wassie Haile, Getachew Agegnehu, Alemayehu Kiflu
    Year: 2021

  7. Characterization and Classification of Soils Along the Toposequence of Medo Sub-watershed at Wondo Genet District, Ethiopia
    Authors: Abreham Yacob, Ashenafi Nigussie
    Year: 2022

  8. The Influence of Cropping systems and Tillage practices on Growth, Yield, and Yield Components of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Shalla District, West Arsi Ethiopia
    Authors: Ashenafi Nigussie, Diriba Daba
    Year: 2022

  9. Agronomic Performance of Barley as Affected by Biochar and Lime Application on Acid Soil of Hula Hagereselam Sidama, Ethiopia
    Authors: Ashenafi Nigussie, Abreham Yacob
    Year: 2022

  10. Role of Biochar Amendments on Soil Microbial Biomass and Nitrogen Dynamics: Review
    Author: Ashenafi Nigussie
    Year: 2022

YAYA RUKAYADI | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. YAYA RUKAYADI | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer and Researcher, UPM ,Malaysia

Yaya Rukayadi, Ph.D., an Associate Professor at Universiti Putra Malaysia, exemplifies excellence in research within food science and biotechnology. With 33 years of teaching and research experience, Dr. Rukayadi has made significant contributions to the bioactivities of medicinal plants, particularly focusing on their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. His impressive academic credentials include a Ph.D. with honors in Microbiology and numerous certifications from prestigious institutions. With an H-index of 32 (Scopus) and over 5,500 citations, his work significantly influences the field. Dr. Rukayadi’s leadership in various research projects, securing over RM 416,000 in government grants, highlights his commitment to advancing food safety and functional foods. His research not only enriches academic discourse but also has a tangible impact on community health by promoting natural products. Recognizing him with the Best Researcher Award would honor his substantial contributions and inspire future generations in the scientific community.

 

Profile:

Education

Dr. Yaya Rukayadi possesses a robust educational background that forms the foundation of his successful research career. He earned his Ph.D. in Microbiology with honors from IPB University, Indonesia, in 1998, following a Master’s degree in Biology from the same institution in 1995. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology Education from the Indonesian University of Education in 1990, complemented by a Diploma as the best graduate from the same institution in 1987. Dr. Rukayadi further enhanced his expertise through postdoctoral education at Yonsei University, South Korea, where he specialized in medicinal plants and thermophilic bacteria. Additionally, he has completed various specialist courses, including microbial diversity and transposon mutagenesis, at prestigious institutions such as the University of Chicago and the University of California at Berkeley. This diverse educational experience equips Dr. Rukayadi with a comprehensive understanding of food science and biotechnology, significantly contributing to his research endeavors.

 

Professional Experiences 

Dr. Yaya Rukayadi has accumulated over 33 years of professional experience in academia and research. Currently serving as an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, he has been instrumental in advancing the fields of food microbiology and biotechnology since 2011. His roles include overseeing research at the Natural Medicine and Product Research Laboratory and collaborating on various interdisciplinary projects. Dr. Rukayadi’s previous appointments include research positions at Yonsei University in South Korea, where he contributed significantly to international research initiatives. His extensive experience as a laboratory coordinator and supervisor for both postgraduate and undergraduate students has honed his leadership and mentorship skills. Additionally, Dr. Rukayadi’s involvement in diverse research grants, including government-funded projects, underscores his commitment to driving innovation in food safety and functional food research, making him a distinguished figure in his field.

 

Research Interests

Dr. Yaya Rukayadi’s research interests center on the bioactivities of medicinal plants, particularly their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. He focuses on investigating extracts, fractions, and compounds from underutilized and neglected plants, aiming to uncover their potential applications in food safety and functional food development. His current projects include studying the antimicrobial activity of tropical edible medicinal plants, identifying and isolating active compounds, and exploring their anticariogenic properties for oral care applications. Dr. Rukayadi’s work emphasizes natural solutions for enhancing food preservation and safety, contributing to sustainable practices within the food industry. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific methods, his research seeks to promote the use of natural products, ultimately benefiting both consumer health and the environment. Through his efforts, he aims to advance the understanding of plant-based bioactive compounds and their potential roles in improving food systems and public health.

 

Research Skills

Yaya Rukayadi, Ph.D., possesses a diverse array of research skills honed over 33 years in academia. His expertise in food microbiology and biotechnology is complemented by advanced techniques in isolating and identifying bioactive compounds from medicinal plants. Proficient in molecular microbiology, Dr. Rukayadi employs various methodologies such as fermentation, metabolomics, and bioassays to investigate the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of natural extracts. His ability to lead and coordinate research projects is evidenced by his successful management of numerous government grants, demonstrating his organizational and leadership skills. Additionally, Dr. Rukayadi’s multilingual capabilities facilitate collaboration with international research communities, enhancing the global impact of his work. His commitment to mentorship further underscores his research acumen, as he guides both undergraduate and postgraduate students through complex scientific inquiries. Collectively, these skills position Dr. Rukayadi as a prominent figure in his field, driving innovation and excellence in research.

 

Award And Recognition 

Dr. Yaya Rukayadi, Associate Professor at Universiti Putra Malaysia, is a distinguished candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his exemplary contributions to food science and biotechnology. With over 33 years of teaching and research experience, he has significantly advanced the understanding of bioactivities in medicinal plants, particularly focusing on their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Dr. Rukayadi has an impressive academic record, reflected in his H-index scores of 32 (Scopus) and 41 (Google Scholar), alongside over 5,500 citations. His leadership in securing over RM 416,000 in government research grants showcases his commitment to impactful research. Beyond academia, his work promotes sustainable practices and natural health solutions, benefiting both the scientific community and society. Dr. Rukayadi’s innovative research and dedication to mentorship make him a deserving recipient of this prestigious recognition, inspiring future researchers in their pursuit of scientific excellence.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Yaya Rukayadi, Ph.D., is an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award, distinguished by his profound contributions to food science and biotechnology. His extensive research on the bioactivities of medicinal plants, particularly in enhancing food safety and developing functional foods, reflects a commitment to addressing real-world challenges. With an impressive H-index and thousands of citations, Dr. Rukayadi’s academic achievements underscore his influential role in advancing scientific knowledge. Furthermore, his dedication to mentoring students and engaging with the community amplifies the impact of his work. By recognizing Dr. Rukayadi with this award, we not only celebrate his significant accomplishments but also inspire future researchers to pursue innovative solutions that promote sustainability and public health. His efforts exemplify the spirit of academic excellence and social responsibility, making him a deserving recipient of this honor.

 

Publication Top Notes

  • Isolation, Identification, and Characteristics of Local Yeast Isolates with Proteolytic Capability Obtained from Traditional Processed Indonesian Duck Eggs
    Authors: Pratama, A., Gumilar, J., Putranto, W.S., Rukayadi, Y.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
    Journal: Journal of Pure and Applied Microbiology, 18(3), pp. 1566–1579
  • Isolation and Characterisation of Pink Pigmented Facultative Methylotrophs (PPFM) from Malaysian Ulam Leaves
    Authors: Ramli, N.I., Abas, F., Ismail, I.S., Rukayadi, Y., Jurime, N.H.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
    Journal: Journal of Pure and Applied Microbiology, 18(3), pp. 1903–1919
  • Phytochemical Screening and Evaluation of Antibacterial, Anticandidal, and Sporicidal Properties of Euphorbia tirucalli Extract in Terengganu, Malaysia
    Authors: Abd Wahab, N.Z., Malza, N.M.N., Rukayadi, Y.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
    Journal: HAYATI Journal of Biosciences, 31(5), pp. 903–915
  • Antifungal activity of synthetic xanthenone against fluconazole-resistant Candida auris and its mechanism of action
    Authors: Ramli, A.H., Jayathilaka, E.H.T.T., Dias, M.K.H.M., de Zoysa, M., Mohd Faudzi, S.M.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
    Journal: Microbial Pathogenesis, 194, 106797
  • Antibacterial effect of ethanolic Gnetum gnemon L. leaf extract on food-borne pathogens and its application as a natural preservative on raw quail eggs
    Authors: Trisha, M.R., Deavyndra Gunawan, V., Wong, J.X., Pak Dek, M.S., Rukayadi, Y.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
    Journal: Heliyon, 10(16), e35691
  • Study of the antidiabetic mechanism of berberine compound on FOXO1 transcription factor through molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations
    Authors: Maksum, I.P., Rustaman, R., Deawati, Y., Utami, A.R., Nafisa, Z.K.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
    Journal: Journal of Molecular Modeling, 30(8), 260
  • Assessing meat quality and textural properties of broiler chickens: the impact of voltage and frequency in reversible electrical water-bath stunning
    Authors: Hayat, M.N., Ismail-Fitry, M.R., Kaka, U., Nurulmahbub, N.A., Sazili, A.Q.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
    Journal: Poultry Science, 103(7), 103764
  • EFFECT OF ETHANOLIC PSIDIUM GUAJAVA L. LEAVES EXTRACT ON THE CELL MORPHOLOGY AND RELEASE OF CELL CONSTITUENTS OF MICROORGANISMS
    Authors: Nursanty, R., Padzil, K.N.M., Mahyudin, N.A., Jaafar, A.H., Rukayadi, Y.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
    Journal: Malaysian Journal of Microscopy, 20(1), pp. 351–360
  • Potential of Cosmos caudatus Kunth. extract as a natural food sanitiser
    Authors: Yusoff, N.A.H., Rukayadi, Y., Abas, F., Khatib, A., Hassan, M.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
    Journal: International Food Research Journal, 31(3), pp. 709–722
  • PUMAKKAL FORMULA FOR MAKING SHRIMP POND WASTE FERTILISER
    Authors: Sutanto, A., Sari, K., Santoso, H., Fidiastuti, H.R., Rukayadi, Y.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
    Journal: Jurnal Ilmiah Ilmu Terapan Universitas Jambi, 8(1), pp. 212–230