Temesgen Ersedo | Biological Sciences | Excellence in Research Award

Dr. Temesgen Ersedo | Biological Sciences | Excellence in Research Award

Researcher from Centyral Ethiopia Agricultural Research Institute Food Science Technology Researcher and Jimma University, Ethiopia

Temesgen Laelago Ersedo is a dedicated researcher and academic professional from Ethiopia with a focus on food science and post-harvest technology. Currently serving as an Associate Researcher at the Southern Agricultural Research Institute, based at Worabe Agricultural Research Center, his work primarily revolves around improving food security and alleviating nutritional insecurity in Southern Ethiopia. Temesgen has built a significant career in research and development, particularly in food product innovation, focusing on developing fortified food products and processing technologies to enhance nutrition in vulnerable populations. With a deep commitment to both scientific advancement and community welfare, he has contributed to various successful projects that aim to combat malnutrition through locally sourced agricultural products. His ongoing research is crucial for the agricultural development of the region, as it emphasizes sustainable food production and efficient post-harvest practices. Temesgen’s academic background, combined with his professional experience and commitment to community engagement, makes him a valuable asset to the agricultural research community.

Professional Profile

Education

Temesgen Laelago’s educational background reflects a strong foundation in chemistry and food science. He completed his primary and secondary education in Ethiopia before earning a diploma in chemistry from Hawassa College in 2003. He then pursued his B.Sc. degree in Chemistry from Dilla University, graduating in 2007. Following this, Temesgen further advanced his academic qualifications by completing his M.Sc. in Food Science and Post-harvest Technology at Hawassa University in 2014. His educational journey has provided him with the necessary knowledge to work effectively in food science, particularly in areas related to food processing, preservation, and nutrition. Throughout his studies, he developed a keen interest in the application of scientific principles to solve real-world problems, especially those affecting food security and nutrition in Ethiopia. Temesgen’s educational achievements have laid a solid foundation for his successful career as a researcher and program coordinator in the field of agricultural development.

Professional Experience

Temesgen Laelago has accumulated significant professional experience in education, administration, and research. His career began as a teacher of chemistry in various schools in the Kambata Tembaro Zone, where he worked from 1999 to 2006. This teaching experience allowed him to develop valuable skills in communication and mentorship. Following his teaching role, he transitioned to administrative positions, serving as the director of Sename Primary School and the supervisor at Damboya Preparatory School. In these roles, he demonstrated leadership and management skills, overseeing educational activities and ensuring the smooth functioning of the institutions. From 2016 to 2019, Temesgen held the position of Agricultural Growth Program Coordinator at the Southern Agricultural Research Institute, based at the Worabe Agricultural Research Center. In this role, he led various research and development projects, contributing significantly to the promotion of food security in Southern Ethiopia. Since 2019, he has been working as an Associate Researcher in Food Science and Post-harvest Technology, focusing on food product development and post-harvest management to address local nutritional challenges.

Research Interests

Temesgen Laelago’s research interests lie at the intersection of food science, nutrition, and post-harvest technology. He is particularly focused on improving food security through the development of innovative food products that address nutritional deficiencies in local communities. His work includes exploring the fortification of food products with essential nutrients such as β-carotene, as seen in his research on cookies enriched with orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. Temesgen is also interested in the evaluation of traditional and new food processing techniques, aiming to enhance the nutritional value, shelf life, and safety of food products. He has worked extensively on developing complementary foods for children under two years, with an emphasis on the use of indigenous crops like enset, maize, and chickpea. Furthermore, his research extends to the study of post-harvest losses, food preservation, and the sustainability of food systems in Southern Ethiopia. Through his work, Temesgen strives to create practical solutions to the pressing issue of nutritional insecurity in Ethiopia, particularly in rural areas.

Research Skills

Temesgen Laelago possesses a strong set of research skills, which are vital to his success as a researcher in the field of food science and post-harvest technology. He is proficient in using a range of statistical and analytical tools, including SAS, SPSS, and R-Software, to analyze data and draw meaningful conclusions from his experiments. Temesgen is skilled in conducting both laboratory and field-based research, allowing him to assess the effectiveness of different food products and processing methods in real-world settings. His research experience includes a variety of techniques, such as sensory evaluations, nutritional analysis, and post-harvest loss assessments. Additionally, his ability to coordinate and manage research projects has been crucial to his success in leading teams and overseeing the implementation of various research initiatives. His expertise in writing research papers and publishing in scientific journals further demonstrates his capacity to communicate complex ideas effectively to a broader audience, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field of food science and nutrition.

Awards and Honors

Temesgen Laelago has received recognition for his contributions to research and development in Ethiopia. Notably, he was awarded a certificate by the African Women in Agriculture Research and Development in 2019, a testament to his involvement in advancing agricultural research in the region. Additionally, he received a certificate from the Southern Agricultural Research Institute (SARI) for his work in promoting agricultural growth in Southern Ethiopia. These awards highlight Temesgen’s commitment to improving food security and nutrition through research and innovation. His work has also been recognized for its potential impact on the agricultural development of Ethiopia, especially in rural and underserved communities. While these honors reflect his valuable contributions, further recognition in international academic circles could help elevate his work to a broader audience, increasing the global impact of his research. Nevertheless, his accolades serve as a foundation for his ongoing efforts in advancing food science and post-harvest technologies in the region.

Conclusion

Temesgen Laelago is a passionate and dedicated researcher whose work has the potential to make a significant impact on food security and nutrition in Ethiopia. With a strong educational foundation and extensive professional experience, particularly in food science and post-harvest technology, he has contributed to various innovative projects that address local challenges. His research has focused on developing nutritious food products and improving food preservation techniques, which are crucial for addressing the region’s nutritional insecurity. Temesgen’s ability to lead research teams and manage projects, combined with his proficiency in statistical and analytical methods, positions him as a capable and influential researcher. While his work is primarily focused on Southern Ethiopia, there is significant potential for further collaboration and global recognition of his contributions. As he continues to expand his research and engage with the global scientific community, Temesgen Laelago’s work will undoubtedly have a lasting positive impact on food security and public health in Ethiopia and beyond.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Effect of packaging materials and storage durations on nutritional composition and antimicrobial potential of ginger (Zingiber officinale) genotypes from Ethiopia
    Journal: Food Nutrition
    Year: 2025-06
    Contributors: Temesgen Laelago Ersedo, Tilahun A. Teka, Sirawdink Fikreyesus Forsido, Engida Dessalegn

  2. Title: Food flavor enhancement, preservation, and bio-functionality of ginger (Zingiber officinale): a review
    Journal: International Journal of Food Properties
    Year: 2023-09-22
    Contributors: Temesgen Laelago Ersedo, Tilahun A. Teka, Sirawdink Fikreyesus Forsido, Engida Dessalegn, Janet Adeyinka Adebo, Metekia Tamiru, Tess Astatkie

Yanfeng Gao | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yanfeng Gao | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Wannan Medical College, China

Dr. Yanfeng Gao is an accomplished researcher specializing in microfluidics-based interdisciplinary science. His work spans analytical chemistry, point-of-care testing, and biomedical engineering, showcasing a strong ability to bridge diverse domains. Known for his exceptional technical skills in micro-nano fabrication, optical microscopy, and computer programming, Dr. Gao combines experimental expertise with a collaborative mindset, enabling successful teamwork in cross-cultural environments. His career is marked by groundbreaking contributions to areas such as inertial microfluidics, molecular diagnostics, and nanocatalysis-integrated chips. Dr. Gao’s commitment to innovation and excellence has earned him recognition through multiple awards and scholarships, underscoring his impact in both academia and applied research.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Gao’s educational journey reflects a dedication to academic excellence and a global outlook. He earned a Ph.D. in Fluid Mechanics from the Université Fédérale de Toulouse Midi-Pyrénées, France (2013–2018), focusing on inertial migration of particles in microchannel flows. His M.S. in Power Machinery and Engineering from Xi’an Jiaotong University (2011–2013) and Engineer’s degree in Mechanical Systems from Université de Technologie de Troyes, France (2009–2011), provided him with interdisciplinary expertise. He began his academic career with a B.S. in Process Equipment and Control Engineering at Xi’an Jiaotong University (2007–2009), establishing a solid foundation for his later work in biomedical and fluidic engineering.

Professional Experience

Dr. Gao’s professional experience is both diverse and impactful. He currently serves at Wannan Medical College (2024–present), focusing on micro-nano fabrication and translational medicine. Previously, at Nanjing University (2019–2024), he advanced bioanalysis, chemical synthesis, and gene editing using microfluidics. His tenure at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (2018–2019) involved developing micro flexible sensors, while earlier roles in France included designing microfluidic oscillators and separating microorganisms using inertial microfluidics. Each position has reinforced his expertise in interdisciplinary applications, from biomedical engineering to fluid mechanics, showcasing his ability to tackle complex challenges across industries.

Research Interests

Dr. Gao’s research interests center on cutting-edge applications of microfluidics and biomedical engineering. He is passionate about inertial microfluidics for particle manipulation, leveraging its potential for analytical and biomedical innovations. His work on nanocatalysis-integrated microfluidic chips aims to advance bioanalysis and molecular diagnostics. Additionally, he explores the CRISPR-Cas system to develop revolutionary point-of-care diagnostic tools. His expertise in micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) fabrication underpins his efforts to bridge fundamental research and practical applications, demonstrating his commitment to advancing interdisciplinary science.

Research Skills

Dr. Gao possesses a versatile skill set that combines technical proficiency with computational expertise. He is experienced in programming languages like MATLAB and R, with familiarity in C++ and Fortran. His software expertise includes engineering tools such as Pro/ENGINEER, CATIA, SolidWorks, and AutoCAD, as well as data analysis tools like ggplot2 and Origin. Proficient in micro-nano fabrication and optical microscopy, he excels in translating complex research into innovative applications. His language fluency in Mandarin, English, and French facilitates international collaborations, enhancing his global research impact.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Gao’s excellence has been recognized through several prestigious awards. He was named a Double-Innovation Doctor of Jiangsu Province (2019) for his innovative research contributions. During his Ph.D. studies, he received the China Scholarship Council Fellowship (2013–2017), supporting his advanced research in France. Earlier in his academic career, he was awarded the Outstanding Student honor and the Siyuan Scholarship at Xi’an Jiaotong University (2008), reflecting his early dedication to academic and research excellence. These accolades underscore his exceptional abilities and commitment to advancing scientific knowledge.

Conclusion

Yanfeng Gao is a highly qualified researcher with a robust background in interdisciplinary science, especially microfluidics and biomedical engineering. His extensive academic and professional experience, technical expertise, and recognition through awards make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. However, including more detailed metrics of research impact and evidence of leadership roles could strengthen his application. If these areas are addressed, he would undoubtedly stand out as an exceptional contender for the award.

Publication Top Notes

  • Hypoxia‐responsive gene editing to reduce tumor thermal tolerance for mild‐photothermal therapy
    Authors: X. Li, Y. Pan, C. Chen, Y. Gao, X. Liu, K. Yang, X. Luan, D. Zhou, F. Zeng, …
    Journal: Angewandte Chemie 133 (39), 21370-21374
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 113
  • Migration of finite sized particles in a laminar square channel flow from low to high Reynolds numbers
    Authors: M. Abbas, P. Magaud, Y. Gao, S. Geoffroy
    Journal: Physics of Fluids 26 (12)
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 98
  • Gallium–Carbenicillin Framework Coated Defect‐Rich Hollow TiO2 as a Photocatalyzed Oxidative Stress Amplifier against Complex Infections
    Authors: J. Yang, C. Wang, X. Liu, Y. Yin, Y.H. Ma, Y. Gao, Y. Wang, Z. Lu, Y. Song
    Journal: Advanced Functional Materials 30 (43), 2004861
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 69
  • Gold nanoparticles doped metal-organic frameworks as near-infrared light-enhanced cascade nanozyme against hypoxic tumors
    Authors: X. Liu, Y. Pan, J. Yang, Y. Gao, T. Huang, X. Luan, Y. Wang, Y. Song
    Journal: Nano Research 13, 653-660
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 66
  • Nano-immunosorbent assay based on Cas12a/crRNA for ultra-sensitive protein detection
    Authors: Q. Zhao, Y. Pan, X. Luan, Y. Gao, X. Zhao, Y. Liu, Y. Wang, Y. Song
    Journal: Biosensors and Bioelectronics 190, 113450
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 55
  • Self-ordered particle trains in inertial microchannel flows
    Authors: Y. Gao, P. Magaud, L. Baldas, C. Lafforgue, M. Abbas, S. Colin
    Journal: Microfluidics and Nanofluidics 21, 1-10
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 55
  • Emerging trends in organ-on-a-chip systems for drug screening
    Authors: Y. Wang, Y. Gao, Y. Pan, D. Zhou, Y. Liu, Y. Yin, J. Yang, Y. Wang, Y. Song
    Journal: Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B 13 (6), 2483-2509
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 41
  • Mesopore to macropore transformation of metal–organic framework for drug delivery in inflammatory bowel disease
    Authors: Y. Yin, J. Yang, Y. Pan, Y. Gao, L. Huang, X. Luan, Z. Lin, W. Zhu, Y. Li, Y. Song
    Journal: Advanced Healthcare Materials 10 (3), 2000973
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 38
  • Hollow covalent organic framework-sheltering CRISPR/Cas12a as an in-vivo nanosensor for ATP imaging
    Authors: Y. Pan, X. Luan, F. Zeng, Q. Xu, Z. Li, Y. Gao, X. Liu, X. Li, X. Han, J. Shen, …
    Journal: Biosensors and Bioelectronics 209, 114239
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 37
  • Inertial lateral migration and self-assembly of particles in bidisperse suspensions in microchannel flows
    Authors: Y. Gao, P. Magaud, C. Lafforgue, S. Colin, L. Baldas
    Journal: Microfluidics and Nanofluidics 23, 1-14
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 35