ASFAW ADUGNA | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. ASFAW ADUGNA | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Sr. Maize Breeder & Breeding Lead – Africa from Advanta Seeds Ltd., Kenya

Dr. Asfaw Adugna Ageru is a distinguished plant breeder specializing in maize and sorghum, with over two decades of experience in agricultural research and development across Africa. Currently serving as the Senior Maize Breeder and Maize Breeding Lead for Africa at Advanta Seeds Ltd., a UPL Group company, he is based in Eldoret, Kenya. Dr. Adugna’s career encompasses significant roles at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), where he contributed to the development and release of multiple crop varieties tailored to diverse agro-ecological zones. His expertise extends to leading collaborative projects with international institutions, focusing on crop improvement, genetic diversity, and sustainable agriculture. Dr. Adugna’s work has been instrumental in enhancing food security and resilience among smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Adugna holds a Ph.D. in Applied Genetics from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia, completed between 2008 and 2012. His doctoral research included a collaborative component at The Ohio State University, USA, where he served as a visiting research scientist. He earned his M.Sc. in Plant Breeding and Genetics from Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India, in 2002, and a B.Sc. in Plant Production and Dryland Farming from Hawassa University, Ethiopia, in 1997. Further enhancing his expertise, Dr. Adugna obtained certificates in Private Public Partnership from Galilee International Management Institute, Israel, in 2021, and in Business Strategy from Cornell University, USA, in 2019.

Professional Experience

Dr. Adugna’s professional journey began at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), where he served from 1998 to 2013 in various capacities, including Senior Researcher in Sorghum and Millets Breeding. He later joined Advanta Seeds Ltd., taking on roles such as Sorghum Breeding Lead for Africa and currently, Senior Maize Breeder and Maize Breeding Lead for Africa. His responsibilities have encompassed leading breeding programs, coordinating research projects, and overseeing the development and release of improved crop varieties. Dr. Adugna has also contributed to international collaborations, serving as a visiting research scientist at The Ohio State University and participating in numerous global training programs and workshops.

Research Interests

Dr. Adugna’s research interests focus on plant breeding, genetics, and the development of crop varieties adapted to diverse environmental conditions. He has a particular interest in the genetic improvement of maize and sorghum, aiming to enhance yield, drought tolerance, and resistance to pests and diseases. His work also explores the implications of crop-wild gene flow on the environment and the utilization of molecular markers in breeding programs. Dr. Adugna is committed to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and improving food security through scientific innovation.

Research Skills

Dr. Adugna possesses a comprehensive skill set in plant breeding and genetics, including expertise in conventional breeding techniques, molecular marker-assisted selection, and genomic analysis. He is adept at designing and implementing breeding programs, conducting field trials, and analyzing data to inform decision-making. His proficiency extends to project management, grant writing, and collaboration with international research institutions. Dr. Adugna’s skills have been instrumental in the successful development and release of multiple crop varieties across Africa.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Dr. Adugna has received several accolades recognizing his contributions to agricultural research. He was awarded a scholarship by the Agricultural Research and Training Program (ARTP) of the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research to pursue his M.Sc. studies. Additionally, he received a Ph.D. research grant from the Biotechnology, Biodiversity Interface (BBI) program of USAID, facilitating his doctoral studies at Addis Ababa University and The Ohio State University. Dr. Adugna’s work has been acknowledged through invitations to contribute to reports by organizations such as The World Bank Group and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Conclusion

Dr. Asfaw Adugna Ageru’s extensive experience in plant breeding, coupled with his commitment to sustainable agriculture and food security, positions him as a leading figure in agricultural research in Africa. His contributions to the development of improved maize and sorghum varieties have had a significant impact on smallholder farmers, enhancing productivity and resilience in the face of environmental challenges. Dr. Adugna’s collaborative approach, engaging with international research institutions and contributing to global agricultural initiatives, underscores his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and practical solutions in agriculture. His work continues to inspire and drive progress in the field of plant breeding and genetics.

Publications Top Notes

  • Efforts in Maize (Zea mays L.) Breeding for Coping With Multiple Stresses in Sub‐Saharan Africa

    • Year: 2025

    • Author(s): Asfaw Adugna

  • Expression of Concern: AFLP-Based Analysis of Genetic Diversity, Population Structure, and Relationships with Agronomic Traits in Rice Germplasm from North Region of Iran and World Core Germplasm Set

    • Year: 2019

    • Author(s): K. Sorkheh, M. Masaeli, M.H. Chaleshtori, A. Adugna, S. Ercisli

  • Pulses-millets crop diversification by smallholders and their potential for sustainable food and nutrition security

    • Year: 2018

    • Author(s): M. Tesfai, U.S. Nagothu, A. Adugna

  • Study of growth and physiological characters in stay-green QTL introgression Sorghum bicolor (L.) lines under post-flowering drought stress

    • Year: 2018

    • Author(s): S. Sintayehu, A. Adugna, M. Fetene, A. Tirfessa, K. Ayalew

  • Indirect estimates reveal the potential of transgene flow in the crop-wild-weed Sorghum bicolor complex in its centre of origin, Ethiopia

    • Year: 2017

    • Author(s): A. Adugna, E. Bekele

  • AFLP-Based Analysis of Genetic Diversity, Population Structure, and Relationships with Agronomic Traits in Rice Germplasm from North Region of Iran and World Core Germplasm Set

    • Year: 2016

    • Author(s): K. Sorkheh, M. Masaeli, M.H. Chaleshtori, A. Adugna, S. Ercisli

  • Assessment of recent bottlenecks and estimation of effective population size in the Ethiopian wild sorghum using simple sequence repeat allele diversity and mutation models

    • Year: 2015

    • Author(s): A. Adugna, E. Bekele

  • Analysis of in situ diversity and population structure in Ethiopian cultivated Sorghum bicolor (L.) landraces using phenotypic traits and SSR markers

    • Year: 2014

    • Author(s): A. Adugna

  • Status and trends of food security in Ethiopia (Book Chapter – Duplicate Entries with Slight Metadata Variations)

    • Year: 2014

    • Author(s): M. Tesfai, A. Adugna, U.S. Nagothu

  • Ecotypic variation for seed dormancy, longevity and germination requirements in wild/weedy Sorghum bicolor in Ethiopia: Implications for seed mediated transgene dispersal and persistence

    • Year: 2013

    • Author(s): A. Adugna

 

Zhihai Ke | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Zhihai Ke | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor from Xinjiang University, China

Dr. Zhihai Ke is an Assistant Professor and Presidential Young Fellow at the School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen (CUHK-Shenzhen). He earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from The Chinese University of Hong Kong in 2012. Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Ke conducted postdoctoral research at the National University of Singapore from 2012 to 2015. Before joining CUHK-Shenzhen in 2020, he served as a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at CUHK. Dr. Ke has secured three General Research Funds from the Hong Kong Research Grants Council as a Principal Investigator. His research interests encompass synthetic organic chemistry, organocatalysis, click chemistry, and organic framework catalysis. He has authored over 30 SCI-indexed papers in esteemed journals such as the Journal of the American Chemical Society, Angewandte Chemie International Edition, ACS Catalysis, Green Chemistry, and ChemSusChem. Notably, some of his catalytic methodologies have been highlighted and applied by international peers.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Zhihai Ke’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree from Sun Yat-sen University. He then pursued and obtained his Ph.D. in Chemistry from The Chinese University of Hong Kong in 2012. His doctoral research laid the foundation for his future contributions to the field of synthetic organic chemistry. The rigorous training and research experience during his Ph.D. equipped him with the skills necessary to excel in both academic and research settings. This educational background has been instrumental in shaping his research interests and professional trajectory.

Professional Experience

After completing his Ph.D., Dr. Ke undertook postdoctoral research at the National University of Singapore from 2012 to 2015, where he further honed his expertise in organic chemistry. He then returned to The Chinese University of Hong Kong as a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry. In 2020, Dr. Ke joined the School of Science and Engineering at CUHK-Shenzhen as an Assistant Professor and Presidential Young Fellow. In this role, he also serves as the Director of the Undergraduate Chemistry Programme. Throughout his career, Dr. Ke has demonstrated a commitment to both teaching and research excellence, contributing significantly to the academic community.

Research Interests

Dr. Ke’s research interests are centered around synthetic organic chemistry, with a particular focus on organocatalysis, click chemistry, and organic framework catalysis. His work aims to develop novel catalytic methodologies that are both efficient and environmentally benign. By exploring new reaction mechanisms and catalyst designs, Dr. Ke seeks to advance the field of organic synthesis and contribute to the development of sustainable chemical processes. His research has practical applications in the synthesis of complex molecules, which are essential in pharmaceuticals, materials science, and other industries.

Research Skills

Dr. Ke possesses a robust set of research skills in synthetic organic chemistry. He is proficient in designing and executing complex organic syntheses, developing novel catalytic systems, and employing advanced analytical techniques to characterize chemical compounds. His expertise extends to organocatalysis and click chemistry, where he has developed innovative methodologies for constructing complex molecular architectures. Dr. Ke’s ability to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory skills has been pivotal in his successful research endeavors and publications in high-impact journals.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Zhihai Ke has been recognized for his contributions to the field of chemistry through various awards and honors. He has secured three General Research Funds from the Hong Kong Research Grants Council, underscoring the significance and impact of his research projects. His work has been highlighted in prominent scientific publications, reflecting the esteem in which his peers hold his contributions. These accolades attest to Dr. Ke’s dedication to advancing chemical science and his standing in the academic community.

Conclusion

Dr. Zhihai Ke’s career exemplifies a commitment to excellence in research, education, and scientific advancement. With a solid educational foundation and a wealth of professional experience, he has made significant contributions to synthetic organic chemistry. His research interests and skills have led to the development of innovative catalytic methodologies, earning him recognition and funding within the scientific community. As an educator and researcher at CUHK-Shenzhen, Dr. Ke continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of chemists, fostering a culture of inquiry and innovation. His ongoing work promises to further the frontiers of chemistry and its applications in various industries.

Publications Top Notes

  • Catalytic Asymmetric Bromoetherification and Desymmetrization of Olefinic 1,3-Diols with C₂-Symmetric Sulfides
    Z Ke, CK Tan, F Chen, YY Yeung
    Journal of the American Chemical Society, 2014, 136 (15), 5627–5630
    Citations: 185

  • Design, synthesis and crystallographic analysis of nitrile-based broad-spectrum peptidomimetic inhibitors for coronavirus 3C-like proteases
    CP Chuck, C Chen, Z Ke, DCC Wan, HF Chow, KB Wong
    European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 2013, 59, 1–6
    Citations: 114

  • Applications of selenonium cations as Lewis acids in organocatalytic reactions
    X He, X Wang, YL Tse, Z Ke, YY Yeung
    Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 2018, 57 (39), 12869–12873
    Citations: 103

  • A Platinum(II) Terpyridine Metallogel with an L-Valine-Modified Alkynyl Ligand: Interplay of Pt⋅⋅⋅Pt, π–π and Hydrogen-Bonding Interactions
    C Po, Z Ke, AYY Tam, HF Chow, VWW Yam
    Chemistry – A European Journal, 2013, 19 (46), 15735–15744
    Citations: 103

  • Conformational and supramolecular properties of main chain and cyclic click oligotriazoles and polytriazoles
    HF Chow, KN Lau, Z Ke, Y Liang, CM Lo
    Chemical Communications, 2010, 46 (20), 3437–3453
    Citations: 88

  • Desymmetrizing enantio- and diastereoselective selenoetherification through supramolecular catalysis
    JY See, H Yang, Y Zhao, MW Wong, Z Ke, YY Yeung
    ACS Catalysis, 2018, 8 (2), 850–858
    Citations: 85

  • Lewis base catalyzed stereo- and regioselective bromocyclization
    MH Gieuw, Z Ke, YY Yeung
    The Chemical Record, 2017, 17 (3), 287–311
    Citations: 85

  • Electrochemical self-assembly of ZnO nanoporous structures
    GR Li, CR Dawa, Q Bu, XH Lu, ZH Ke, HE Hong, FL Zheng, CZ Yao, …
    The Journal of Physical Chemistry C, 2007, 111 (5), 1919–1923
    Citations: 81

  • Electrochemical synthesis of orientation-ordered ZnO nanorod bundles
    GR Li, CR Dawa, Q Bu, F Zhen, XH Lu, ZH Ke, HE Hong, CZ Yao, P Liu, …
    Electrochemistry Communications, 2007, 9 (5), 863–868
    Citations: 61

  • Lewis base-promoted ring-opening 1,3-dioxygenation of unactivated cyclopropanes using a hypervalent iodine reagent
    MH Gieuw, Z Ke, YY Yeung
    Angewandte Chemie, 2018, 130 (14), 3844–3848
    Citations: 52

Shengtai Bian | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shengtai Bian | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Association Professor from BEIJING SPORT UNIVERSITY, China

Dr. Shengtai Bian is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in biomedical engineering, currently serving as an Associate Professor in the School of Sport Science at Beijing Sport University. He also leads the Microfluidics Research & Innovation Laboratory, where he spearheads innovative studies on wearable technologies and health-monitoring devices. With a strong background in microfluidic and electrochemical sensor development, Dr. Bian’s work bridges the domains of material science, biomedical engineering, and sports science. His research focuses on non-invasive monitoring using biofluids such as sweat, interstitial fluid (ISF), and saliva, addressing growing demands in preventive healthcare and point-of-care diagnostics. His research excellence stems from a solid academic foundation, forward-thinking approaches, and interdisciplinary integration. As a principal investigator, he contributes significantly to the academic and technological advancement of wearable sensor systems that can detect physiological signals in real-time. Dr. Bian’s leadership in innovation and scientific inquiry has earned him recognition among the academic and healthcare technology communities. His ability to translate fundamental research into applied solutions makes him a prominent figure in his field. He continues to advance new frontiers in health monitoring by integrating polymeric materials, flexible electronics, and biosensing technologies, setting a benchmark for modern biomedical applications.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Shengtai Bian earned his Doctor of Engineering degree in Biomedical Engineering from Tsinghua University, one of the most prestigious and competitive universities in China. Tsinghua University is globally recognized for its strong emphasis on science and technology, and Dr. Bian’s doctoral education provided him with rigorous training in the development and application of advanced biomedical technologies. His doctoral research cultivated a deep understanding of sensor systems, microfluidics, and materials science, laying the groundwork for his future contributions to wearable and point-of-care medical devices. The program also fostered his analytical thinking and research design skills, enabling him to work across disciplines with a strong problem-solving approach. His academic formation at Tsinghua placed him at the cutting edge of emerging biomedical technologies, encouraging innovation and translational research. In addition to core biomedical engineering competencies, Dr. Bian gained experience in collaborative, cross-functional research, particularly in working with interdisciplinary teams that included professionals from fields such as polymer chemistry, electrical engineering, and clinical medicine. This educational experience not only equipped him with in-depth theoretical knowledge but also inspired his current research trajectory focused on wearable microfluidic and electrochemical sensor development for health monitoring applications.

Professional Experience

Dr. Shengtai Bian is currently an Associate Professor in the School of Sport Science at Beijing Sport University, where he also serves as the Principal Investigator of the Microfluidics Research & Innovation Laboratory. In this role, he leads a multidisciplinary team focused on developing wearable health-monitoring devices using microfluidic and electrochemical sensing technologies. His academic appointment has allowed him to merge the fields of sport science, biomedical engineering, and material innovation, applying his expertise to real-world challenges in health and athletic performance monitoring. Dr. Bian’s professional journey has been characterized by progressive leadership and a commitment to impactful research. He is actively involved in teaching, mentoring graduate students, and supervising research projects that aim to develop practical diagnostic and monitoring tools. His work often bridges the academic and applied sectors, and he has established collaborations with both industry partners and academic institutions. Beyond his responsibilities in academia, Dr. Bian frequently participates in research forums and contributes to scientific publications. His professional experience has positioned him as a thought leader in wearable biosensing and applied biomedical technologies. His contributions not only elevate the academic standing of his institution but also play a vital role in shaping the next generation of medical monitoring systems.

Research Interest

Dr. Shengtai Bian’s research interests lie at the intersection of biomedical engineering, wearable technology, and health diagnostics. He is particularly focused on the development of microfluidic and electrochemical sensors for the non-invasive detection of biomarkers in biofluids such as sweat, interstitial fluid (ISF), and saliva. This approach enables real-time health monitoring, making it highly relevant for both clinical and athletic performance applications. His work emphasizes the use of flexible and biocompatible materials to create user-friendly, skin-adherent sensors that can operate continuously and wirelessly. He is also deeply engaged in advancing Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) systems that provide immediate diagnostic information outside traditional laboratory settings, supporting the growing demand for decentralized healthcare. Another core area of his interest is high polymer materials, which serve as foundational elements in the construction of durable, flexible, and sensitive biosensors. By integrating materials science, nanotechnology, and electrochemistry, Dr. Bian aims to develop holistic platforms for personalized health management. His interdisciplinary focus is aligned with global trends in preventive healthcare and digital health solutions. Ultimately, Dr. Bian’s research strives to provide innovative tools that are accessible, affordable, and capable of improving quality of life through early detection and continuous monitoring of physiological conditions.

Research Skills

Dr. Shengtai Bian possesses an extensive array of research skills that contribute to his excellence in the field of biomedical sensing technologies. He is highly skilled in microfluidic device fabrication, including soft lithography, 3D printing, and polymer casting techniques, which are essential for creating small-scale, efficient, and integrable systems for biofluid analysis. His proficiency in electrochemical sensor design enables him to construct precise, sensitive, and stable biosensing platforms for a wide range of health monitoring applications. Dr. Bian has deep expertise in the selection and manipulation of high-performance polymeric materials, which he integrates into flexible and wearable electronics for human health diagnostics. His analytical capabilities include signal processing, biofluid composition analysis, and the calibration of sensors for accurate real-time feedback. Moreover, Dr. Bian is experienced in working with interdisciplinary teams, which enhances his ability to apply his technical skills to real-world healthcare scenarios. He is adept at combining experimental and theoretical methods to validate his devices and systems. His skill set also includes project management, academic writing, grant proposal development, and mentoring, all of which reinforce his leadership in research environments. Collectively, his technical and managerial skills make him a versatile and effective innovator in biomedical engineering.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards and honors for Dr. Shengtai Bian are not explicitly mentioned, his professional standing and leadership roles suggest a commendable track record of academic recognition. As an Associate Professor and Principal Investigator of a dedicated research laboratory, he has achieved a level of distinction typically earned through sustained contributions to science and technology. His selection to lead the Microfluidics Research & Innovation Laboratory indicates institutional trust in his vision and capabilities. Such positions are often awarded based on demonstrated research productivity, innovation, and mentorship. It is reasonable to assume that he has been the recipient of internal grants, competitive research funding, or recognition within his university or research networks for his work in biomedical sensors and wearable technology. Participation in peer-reviewed publications, invited talks, and academic conferences also reflects recognition by the broader scientific community. As his career continues to evolve, further documentation of his awards, patents, and high-impact publications would solidify his profile as a leading figure in this domain. Regardless, his current role and research leadership are testaments to his academic merit and the impact of his work in advancing next-generation health monitoring technologies.

Conclusion

Dr. Shengtai Bian stands out as a forward-thinking researcher whose work aligns with global healthcare trends emphasizing non-invasive, real-time health monitoring. His expertise in microfluidic and electrochemical sensors, coupled with his commitment to interdisciplinary research, places him at the forefront of innovation in wearable health technologies. As an Associate Professor and Principal Investigator, he has demonstrated strong leadership, academic rigor, and a dedication to translating research into practical applications. While additional documentation of his awards, publications, and collaborative engagements would further bolster his candidacy, his ongoing contributions to biomedical engineering already reflect a high level of excellence. His ability to integrate materials science, biosensing, and wearable technology into health solutions makes his research both timely and impactful. He addresses critical challenges in personalized healthcare and preventive diagnostics, which are key priorities in modern medicine and sports science. In conclusion, Dr. Bian is a strong contender for any recognition honoring research excellence, particularly in the domain of biomedical engineering and wearable diagnostics. His vision, research focus, and leadership qualities make him a valuable contributor to the scientific community and a deserving candidate for prestigious research awards.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Antibacterial hydrogel: The sniper of chronic wounds
    Authors: Shengtai Bian, Huijun Ye, Pan Wang, Ming Guan, Shilun Feng
    Year: Not specified
    Citations: 1