MD. RABIUL AWAL | Fisheries and Aquaculture | Young Scientist Award

Mr. MD. RABIUL AWAL | Fisheries and Aquaculture | Young Scientist Award

Scientific Officer from Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute, Bangladesh

Md. Rabiul Awal is a highly accomplished Scientific Officer at the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute (BFRI), specializing in aquaculture research, fish breeding, and fisheries management. With a Master’s in Aquaculture from Bangladesh Agricultural University and a passion for innovation, Awal has significantly contributed to advancing sustainable aquaculture systems, climate change adaptation, and fish conservation. His focus is on genetic improvement and breeding techniques for various fish species, especially in the context of Bangladesh’s aquatic ecosystems. Awal has authored several publications in reputable journals and has presented his research findings at international conferences. His leadership in research projects, both as a principal investigator and a co-investigator, demonstrates his commitment to addressing the challenges facing global fisheries. Known for his integrity, technical expertise, and teamwork skills, he has gained recognition in the academic and scientific communities. Md. Rabiul Awal’s research continues to shape the future of sustainable aquaculture and fisheries management, making him a valuable asset to the field.

Professional Profile

Education

Md. Rabiul Awal completed his academic journey at the Bangladesh Agricultural University, where he earned both his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Aquaculture and Fisheries, respectively. He graduated with high honors, securing a CGPA of 3.594/4.00 in his MS and 3.420/4.00 in his B.Sc. Awal’s academic excellence extends back to his early education, where he achieved top marks in his HSC and SSC exams, with a GPA of 5.00/5.00 in both. His education has provided him with a solid foundation in aquaculture, fish breeding, and fisheries science, enabling him to pursue advanced research in sustainable aquaculture systems and fish conservation. Through his academic training, Awal gained essential knowledge in molecular biology, genetics, and water quality management, equipping him to address real-world challenges in fisheries management. His educational background, combined with his passion for research, has shaped his professional trajectory, allowing him to contribute significantly to Bangladesh’s fisheries sector and global research in aquaculture.

Professional Experience

Md. Rabiul Awal currently serves as a Scientific Officer at the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute (BFRI), where he has been actively involved in research since 2020. In this capacity, he has led and managed multiple research projects focused on fish breeding, genetic improvements, and sustainable aquaculture practices. His work has included the study of fish species’ biometric and reproductive biology, with an emphasis on conservation and management strategies. Awal has also played a key role in mentoring junior researchers and supervising experiments to assess fish growth, reproduction, and environmental impacts. His professional experience extends to the development of breeding techniques for various species, including the striped snakehead, and implementing advanced aquaculture systems for fish production. He has published 17 research papers in prestigious journals, showcasing his contributions to the field. Awal is also a co-principal investigator in various research projects aimed at improving aquaculture practices and conserving native fish species. His ability to handle complex research tasks, collaborate with peers, and innovate in aquaculture systems highlights his expertise and professionalism in the field of fisheries research.

Research Interest

Md. Rabiul Awal’s research interests are centered on several key areas of aquaculture and fisheries management. These include fish breeding and genetics, sustainable aquaculture systems, and the impacts of climate change on fisheries. Awal is particularly interested in the development of breeding techniques for native and exotic fish species to improve productivity and conservation efforts. He also focuses on assessing the growth performance, nutritional needs, and management practices for various fish species to promote sustainability in aquaculture. Additionally, his work on climate change and its effect on fish populations and water quality management positions him as a leading figure in adapting aquaculture to environmental challenges. Awal’s research into smart aquaculture systems explores the use of technology and innovations to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of aquaculture. By examining the genetic factors that influence growth, reproduction, and disease resistance in fish, Awal is driving forward research that will significantly impact the future of fisheries management and aquaculture practices globally.

Research Skills

Md. Rabiul Awal possesses a broad range of research skills that are critical to his success in the field of aquaculture and fisheries management. His expertise includes the use of molecular techniques such as PCR and DNA barcoding for genetic sequencing, which are vital for fish species identification and conservation strategies. Awal is proficient in statistical analysis using software like SPSS, R Studio, GraphPad Prism, and Origin Pro, allowing him to interpret complex data sets and derive meaningful conclusions from his research. His skills extend to water quality assessment, biometric analysis, and breeding techniques, enabling him to develop sustainable aquaculture systems. Awal is also experienced in the use of GIS and remote sensing for fisheries research, further enhancing his ability to analyze environmental variables and optimize aquaculture practices. His ability to manage and execute large-scale research projects, coupled with his proficiency in scientific writing and proposal development, highlights his research capability and versatility in the field.

Awards and Honors

Md. Rabiul Awal’s work has been recognized with several awards and honors for his contributions to fisheries research and sustainable aquaculture practices. Notably, he received the prestigious National Integrity Award in 2021-2022 from the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute for his outstanding commitment to integrity in scientific research. This recognition underscores his dedication to ethical research practices and promoting transparency in the scientific community. Awal’s contributions to the aquaculture sector have also been acknowledged in the form of numerous publications in reputable, peer-reviewed journals, solidifying his status as a leading researcher. His ability to collaborate effectively on large research projects, combined with his innovative approach to aquaculture and fisheries management, has earned him accolades from his peers. Through his continued dedication to advancing fisheries science, Md. Rabiul Awal is poised to receive further recognition for his ongoing efforts to improve sustainable aquaculture practices.

Conclusion

Md. Rabiul Awal stands out as a promising young scientist whose contributions to fisheries research and sustainable aquaculture have made a significant impact in his field. His expertise in fish breeding, genetic improvement, and climate change adaptation has positioned him as a key researcher at the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute. Awal’s strong academic background, combined with his leadership in various research projects and his ability to produce valuable scientific publications, demonstrates his dedication and passion for improving aquaculture practices. His technical skills, coupled with his focus on sustainability, make him a key player in the future of fisheries management. With numerous accolades and a track record of successful projects, Awal’s career is on a trajectory that promises continued growth and innovation in aquaculture. His work will undoubtedly shape the future of sustainable fisheries, benefiting both the scientific community and global aquaculture industries.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Effect of feeding frequency on the growth of GIFT (Oreochromis niloticus)
    Authors: S Nasrin, MH Rahman, MR Awal, M Das, MS Hossain, F Sarker
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 12
    Journal: International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Studies (9) (2), 98-107

  • Title: Traditional fish drying method practiced by the farmers of Chalan Beel (Singra Upazila) and their socio-economic status
    Authors: M Nahiduzzaman, FA Flowra, MN Hossen, MR Awal, MA Rahman
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 4
    Journal: Int. J. Fish. Aqua. Stud (8), 184-190

  • Title: Induced breeding techniques of pool barb (Puntius sophore, Hamilton) using pituitary gland extract
    Authors: S Yesmine, MR Awal, AHM Kohinoor, Y Mahmud
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 3
    Journal: Bangladesh J. Fish. Res (19) (1-2), 13-21

  • Title: Assessment of sexual maturity and spawning biology of Channa punctata (Bloch, 1793): conservation and reproduction
    Authors: MR Awal, MA Rahman, M Khanoma, MS Islam, A Bhadra, Y Mahmud
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 2
    Journal: Asian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Research (25) (5), 95-104

  • Title: Culture potentialities of gura chingri (Macrobrachium rude) in pond at different stocking densities
    Authors: MDR Awal, S Yesmine, M Khanom, P Chowdhury, AHM Kohinoor
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 2
    Journal: Bangladesh Journal of Fisheries Research (20) (1-2), 123-130

  • Title: Effect of hormonal treatment on artificial propagation, spawning performance and embryonic development of striped snakehead Channa striata (Bloch, 1793)
    Authors: MR Awal, R Pervin, MA Rahman, A Bhadra, Y Mahmud, MB Tanu
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1
    Journal: Animal Reproduction Science (267), 107521

  • Title: Determination of suitable species combination of two small indigenous fish species (SIS) pabda (Ompok pabda) and gulsha (Mystus cavasius) with rohu (Labeo rohita) in farmers’ pond
    Authors: M Nahiduzzaman, MS Islam, SS Mely, MM Rahman, MR Awal
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 1
    Journal: Research in Agriculture Livestock and Fisheries (10) (2), 219-228

  • Title: First record of important biological parameters of Badis badis: A small indigenous species in Bangladesh
    Authors: MR Awal, S Nasrin, MA Rahman, M Nahiduzzaman
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 1
    Journal: Archives of Agriculture and Environmental Science (8) (2), 228-235

  • Title: Induced breeding performance of Dhela (Osteobrama cotio) with pituitary gland (PG) extract
    Authors: S Yesmine, MR Awal, MS Alam, MS Ali, AHM Kohinoor, Y Mahmud
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 1
    Journal: Bangladesh J Fish Res (20) (1-2), 1-6

  • Title: Evaluation of Biometric and Breeding Biology of the Striped Snakehead Channa striata in the Haor Region: Conservation and Effective Management
    Authors: MR Awal, KA Attia, M Khanom, MA Rahman, MS Islam, AA Mohammed
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Aquaculture, Fish and Fisheries (5) (2), e70058

Marina J. Vergotti | Marine Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Mrs. Marina J. Vergotti | Marine Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Mrs at Freie Universität Berlin, Germany 

Marina J. Vergotti is a passionate Earth Sciences researcher with a particular focus on marine ecosystems and coral ecology. As a Ph.D. candidate at Freie Universität Berlin, she is exploring the effects of environmental change on the temperate coral Cladocora caespitosa. Her academic journey spans multiple prestigious institutions, where she has contributed significantly to understanding the resilience of marine organisms to climate change. Vergotti’s research is deeply connected to the broader themes of marine biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management, particularly regarding coral reefs and marine protected areas. Her ability to merge fieldwork with laboratory research highlights her interdisciplinary approach, integrating marine biology, ecology, and geosciences. She has participated in numerous international collaborations and projects, contributing to the global discourse on climate change’s effects on marine life.

Professional Profile

Education

Vergotti holds an MSc in Oceanography and Marine Management from the University of Barcelona and a BSc in Biology (Biodiversity and Ecology) from the same institution. She further honed her skills through specialized courses in stable isotopes, oceanography, and marine management. Her educational background is complemented by various advanced training in ecological conservation methods for marine species, including sharks and cetaceans. These educational experiences laid a solid foundation for her current research on temperate coral reefs and climate change resilience.

Professional Experience

Vergotti’s professional experience includes her current position as a lecturer at Freie Universität Berlin, where she teaches graduate students in reef evolution and ecology. She has worked as a research assistant at various institutions, such as the University of Barcelona and the Smithsonian Institution, where she contributed to projects focused on coral ecology, marine biodiversity, and climate change. She has also gained practical experience through several field campaigns, collaborating with international research teams in Spain, Chile, and Germany. Her work has involved extensive field research, laboratory analysis, and supervision of undergraduate theses, establishing her as a versatile and highly skilled researcher.

Research Interests

Vergotti’s primary research interest revolves around the response of temperate corals, particularly Cladocora caespitosa, to environmental stressors like warming and acidification. She focuses on studying the variability in pH regulation, biomineralization, and the long-term effects of thermal stress on coral reefs. Her research also delves into sclerochronology, using coral skeletons to reconstruct past environmental conditions and assess coral health. Vergotti is deeply invested in understanding how climate change impacts marine ecosystems and the resilience mechanisms that may allow corals to survive under changing oceanic conditions. Her work aims to contribute to conservation efforts and sustainable management of marine resources.

Research Skills

Vergotti’s research skills are diverse and include proficiency in sclerochronological techniques, statistical analysis, and marine fieldwork. She is skilled in using Coral-XDS software for X-ray analyses, which allows her to study coral growth and calcification rates. She has a solid background in ecological modeling and statistical tools, with experience in R Studio, ImageJ, and Excel for data analysis. Vergotti’s fieldwork expertise includes scuba diving, marine sampling, and underwater observation, having participated in numerous field campaigns. Her ability to merge laboratory-based research with real-world fieldwork is one of her standout skills, allowing her to gather valuable data that informs her studies on coral resilience to environmental change.

Awards and Honors

Vergotti’s academic excellence has been recognized through her involvement in several prestigious research projects, such as the European Union Horizon 2020 project MaCoBioS, which focuses on coastal ecosystems in a changing world. She has contributed to various collaborative projects, including the UndResCoral project, which investigates the biotic and abiotic factors affecting coral resilience. Although not explicitly listed with specific awards, Vergotti’s research contributions to marine science and climate change resilience have garnered significant recognition in the scientific community. Her participation in international conferences and workshops further underscores her commitment to advancing the field of marine ecology and conservation.

Conclusion

Marina J. Vergotti demonstrates exceptional research capabilities and leadership in her field, particularly in understanding the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems. Her publications, contributions to major research projects, and teaching roles highlight her expertise and dedication. With some focus on public outreach and expanding the geographic scope of her research, Marina is poised to make an even greater impact in the field of marine conservation. Based on her academic and professional achievements, she is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Weather and trade-offs between growth and reproduction regulate fruit production in European forests
    • Authors: MJ Vergotti, M Fernández-Martínez, SC Kefauver, IA Janssens, …
    • Journal: Agricultural and Forest Meteorology
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 36
    • DOI: 107711
  2. The endangered coral Cladocora caespitosa in the Menorca Biosphere Reserve: Distribution, demographic traits and threats
    • Authors: DK Kersting, ME Cefalì, J Movilla, MJ Vergotti, C Linares
    • Journal: Ocean & Coastal Management
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 7
    • DOI: 106626