Hugo HERNANDEZ FONSECA | Veterinary Medicine | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Hugo HERNANDEZ FONSECA | Veterinary Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Professor from Saint George’s University, Grenada

Prof. Hugo Hernandez Fonseca is a highly accomplished veterinary researcher and academic with over 30 years of expertise in reproductive physiology, biotechnology, and embryology. Currently serving as a Professor of Physiology at St. George’s University, Grenada, Prof. Fonseca has held numerous academic and research positions across Venezuela, the United States, and the Caribbean. His research has focused on improving bovine embryo development and fertility, contributing significantly to both the scientific understanding and practical applications in veterinary medicine. Prof. Fonseca has published more than 46 peer-reviewed articles, presented extensively at national and international conferences, and co-edited specialized books in embryology and biotechnology. He has received multiple awards recognizing his research excellence and teaching abilities. Additionally, his leadership and mentorship roles have guided many graduate and doctoral students toward successful careers in veterinary sciences. Prof. Fonseca combines robust laboratory expertise with applied commercial biotechnology experience, bridging the gap between research and practice. His sustained dedication to advancing reproductive biotechnology, combined with his technical skills and academic leadership, positions him as a strong candidate for major research recognitions. His contributions continue to influence the fields of veterinary physiology, biotechnology, and embryology, making him a respected figure in the academic and research communities.

Professional Profile

Education

Prof. Hugo Hernandez Fonseca holds a rich academic background with advanced degrees that have shaped his expertise in veterinary reproductive physiology. He earned his Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (M.V.) from the University of Zulia, Venezuela, providing him with a strong foundation in animal health and veterinary science. Driven by a passion for research and specialized knowledge, he pursued a Master of Science (MSc) in Reproductive Physiology, deepening his understanding of animal reproductive systems, particularly focusing on cattle. He continued his academic journey by completing a Ph.D. in Reproductive Physiology and Biotechnology, where he explored advanced research topics such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), embryo development, and reproductive biotechnologies. This solid educational trajectory has equipped Prof. Fonseca with both theoretical and applied knowledge, allowing him to work across academic, research, and commercial biotechnology settings. His education has been complemented by multiple international research experiences, including work at renowned institutions like the University of Georgia and West Virginia University in the United States. Collectively, these educational milestones have laid the groundwork for his prolific research career, positioning him as a subject matter expert in bovine reproduction, embryo technology, and advanced veterinary biotechnological applications.

Professional Experience

Prof. Hugo Hernandez Fonseca’s professional experience spans over three decades, marked by progressive leadership roles in academia, research, and applied biotechnology. He began his academic career at the University of Zulia, Venezuela, where he served as a Professor of Veterinary Physiology and later as Head of the Laboratory of Reproductive Biotechnology. His tenure there involved managing research teams, overseeing laboratory operations, and leading several major research projects focused on bovine reproduction and embryo production. Prof. Fonseca further broadened his expertise through international appointments at the University of Georgia and West Virginia University, engaging in advanced reproductive research and collaborative projects. Currently, he holds the position of Professor of Physiology in the Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology at St. George’s University in Grenada. In this role, he teaches veterinary students, mentors graduate and doctoral researchers, and leads research initiatives in reproductive biotechnology. Throughout his career, he has also collaborated with commercial laboratories and biotechnology firms, contributing to practical innovations such as in vitro fertilization protocols and embryo freezing techniques. Prof. Fonseca’s wide-ranging professional experience, combining academic excellence, hands-on research, and applied biotechnology, highlights his versatile and impactful career trajectory.

Research Interest

Prof. Hugo Hernandez Fonseca’s research interests center on reproductive physiology, biotechnology, embryology, and in vitro embryo production, with a particular focus on bovine models. His work explores how environmental factors, hormonal treatments, and nutritional status influence bovine fertility and embryo development, aiming to improve reproductive outcomes in livestock. Prof. Fonseca is particularly interested in optimizing in vitro fertilization (IVF) protocols, investigating oocyte maturation, embryonic viability, and the biochemical markers associated with successful embryo implantation. Additionally, his research extends into understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying embryogenesis, making important contributions to both veterinary science and agricultural productivity. Beyond bovine reproduction, Prof. Fonseca has also explored comparative embryology, applying his findings to other mammalian species. His interest in applied biotechnology drives collaborations with commercial labs and industry partners to translate research findings into practical solutions, such as improved cattle breeding programs, advanced embryo freezing techniques, and biotechnological interventions that enhance reproductive efficiency. Overall, his research integrates basic science, applied biotechnology, and practical agricultural outcomes, positioning him at the intersection of academic research and industry innovation in the veterinary reproductive sciences field.

Research Skills

Prof. Hugo Hernandez Fonseca possesses a wide range of specialized research skills that have defined his success in veterinary reproductive biotechnology. He is highly skilled in laboratory techniques related to in vitro fertilization (IVF), oocyte and embryo manipulation, sperm analysis, embryo culture systems, and embryo freezing (cryopreservation). His expertise extends to the biochemical and molecular evaluation of reproductive tissues, allowing him to investigate the cellular and hormonal mechanisms underlying fertility and embryonic development. Prof. Fonseca is also proficient in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation of complex biological datasets, ensuring rigor and precision in his research outputs. Additionally, his technical skills encompass laboratory management, quality control, and troubleshooting in IVF laboratories, making him a sought-after expert for both academic and commercial research settings. He is experienced in leading multidisciplinary research teams, supervising graduate students, and coordinating collaborative projects across institutions and industries. His ability to translate research findings into practical biotechnological applications, such as improved reproductive protocols and enhanced livestock production systems, further demonstrates his applied research strengths. These combined research skills have made Prof. Fonseca a respected leader and innovator in the field of reproductive physiology and veterinary biotechnology.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Hugo Hernandez Fonseca has been the recipient of numerous awards and honors that recognize his outstanding research achievements, academic excellence, and contributions to the field of veterinary reproductive biotechnology. Among his most notable accolades is the Scientific Achievement Award granted by the University of Zulia, which acknowledged his pioneering research in bovine embryo production and reproductive technologies. He also received the Technology and Natural Sciences Award, highlighting his innovative contributions to applied biotechnology in animal reproduction. In addition to research recognitions, Prof. Fonseca has been honored with several institutional teaching excellence awards, reflecting his dual commitment to advancing knowledge and mentoring the next generation of veterinary scientists. His work has been celebrated nationally and internationally, with invitations to present at prestigious conferences and to collaborate on global research projects. These honors not only underscore the scientific merit of his research but also highlight his leadership, mentorship, and service to the academic and scientific communities. Collectively, these awards position Prof. Fonseca as a distinguished scholar whose work continues to shape the landscape of veterinary reproductive science and biotechnology.

Conclusion

Prof. Hugo Hernandez Fonseca stands out as a distinguished researcher and academic leader whose career spans groundbreaking work in reproductive physiology, biotechnology, and veterinary embryology. His sustained research excellence, extensive publication record, and numerous awards position him among the leading figures in his field. Prof. Fonseca’s ability to integrate fundamental research with applied biotechnological solutions has had a tangible impact on livestock production, fertility management, and reproductive efficiency. Beyond his research achievements, his dedication to teaching and mentorship has shaped the careers of many young scientists, ensuring a lasting legacy in veterinary sciences. While his work has garnered strong regional and national recognition, expanding his international collaborations and publishing more in globally top-tier journals could further amplify his global research impact. Nevertheless, Prof. Fonseca’s combination of technical expertise, research leadership, and academic service makes him a highly deserving candidate for prestigious research awards. His contributions continue to advance the field, bridging the gap between science and practice, and positioning him as a respected authority and innovator in reproductive biotechnology.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Role of Angiotensin II in Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis: Narrative Review
    Journal: Reviews in Medical Virology
    Date: 2025-05
    DOI: 10.1002/rmv.70040
    Authors: Adriana Pedreañez, Renata Vargas, Yenddy Carrero, Juan P. Hernández-Fonseca, Hugo Hernández-Fonseca, Jesús Mosquera

  2. Title: Mechanisms of Angiotensin II to Induce Depression in Diabetes
    Journal: Diabetology International
    Date: 2025-04-05
    DOI: 10.1007/s13340-025-00817-x
    Authors: Renata Vargas, Adriana Pedreañez, Yenddy Carrero, Juan P. Hernandez-Fonseca, Hugo Hernandez-Fonseca, Jesús A. Mosquera

  3. Title: Moon Cycle Influences Calving Frequency, Gestation Length, and Calf Weight at Birth, but Not Offspring Sex Proportion in Tropical Crossbred Cattle
    Journal: Chronobiology International
    Date: 2024-12
    DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2024.2432437
    Authors: Fernando P. Perea, Adriana M. Pulla, Katherine P. Quito, Manuel E. Soria, Alfredo Romero, Hugo Hernández-Fonseca, Roberto A. Palomares, Rodolfo Ungerfeld, Patricia Villamediana, Maria S. Mendez

  4. Title: Role of Gut Microbiota in Dengue
    Journal: Reviews in Medical Virology
    Date: 2024-09
    DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2577
    Authors: Adriana Pedreañez, Yenddy Carrero, Renata Vargas, Juan P. Hernandez-Fonseca, Hugo Hernandez-Fonseca, Jesús A. Mosquera

  5. Title: The Moon Cycle Influences Reproductive and Productive Traits in Guinea Pigs (Cavia porcellus) from a Tropical Andean Area
    Journal: Chronobiology International
    Date: 2024-01-02
    DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2023.2294044
    Authors: Miguel F. Perea, Estefanía A. Fernández, Juan P. Garzón, Cornelio A. Rosales, Hugo Hernández-Fonseca, Daniel A. Perdomo, Fernando P. Perea

  6. Title: Effect of Estrous Cycle Stage on Oocyte In Vitro Maturation of Domestic Cats Reared Under Tropical Conditions
    Journal: Revista Científica de la Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias
    Date: 2023-08-17
    DOI: 10.52973/rcfcv-e33212
    Authors: Enmar Monasterio-Alemán, Luis Monasterio-Oquendo, Liset Zambrano-Vivas, Verónica Arboleda-Caldera, Carla Osorio-Melendez, José Aranguren-Méndez, Fernando Perea-Ganchou, Hugo Hernández-Fonseca

  7. Title: Angiotensin II and Dengue
    Journal: Archives of Virology
    Date: 2023-07
    DOI: 10.1007/s00705-023-05814-6
    Authors: Jesus A. Mosquera-Sulbaran, Adriana Pedreañez, Juan Pablo Hernandez-Fonseca, Hugo Hernandez-Fonseca

  8. Title: Relación de la Hormona Anti-Mülleriana con la Cantidad y Calidad de Ovocitos Colectados por Aspiración Ecoguiada en Vaquillas Holstein
    Journal: Revista Científica de la Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias
    Date: 2023-02-26
    DOI: 10.52973/rcfcv-e33202
    Authors: Jorge Dután, Jorge Samaniego, Fernando Perea, Hugo Hernández-Fonseca, José Luis Pesántez, Andrés Jácome, Gabriela Garay, Luis Ayala

  9. Title: Comparación de Dos Dosis de FSHp en la Superovulación de Ovejas Pelibuey
    Journal: Archivos Latinoamericanos de Producción Animal
    Date: 2022-10-25
    DOI: 10.53588/alpa.300618
    Authors: Juan C. Alvarado, Daniel E. Argudo, Andrés L. Moscoso, Hugo J. Hernández-Fonseca, Fernando P. Perea, José M. Rodríguez

  10. Title: Tasa de Fertilidad al Primer Servicio en Vacas Resultantes del Cruce Alterno entre Brahman Rojo y Holstein Rojo de Acuerdo con el Predominio Racial, la Generación (Madres e Hijas) y a la Época de Parto
    Journal: Archivos Latinoamericanos de Producción Animal
    Date: 2022-10-25
    DOI: 10.53588/alpa.300613
    Authors: Fernando Pedro Perea Ganchou, Eleazar Soto-Belloso, Daniel A. Perdomo, Mariana S. Perea, Roberto A. Palomares, Juan C. Gutiérrez, Hugo Hernández-Fonseca

 

 

Christian Odinga | Veterinary Medicine | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Christian Odinga | Veterinary Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Programs Officer, Capacitating One Health in Eastern and Southern Africa at International Service for the Acquisition of Agribiotech Applications, AfriCenter, Kenya

Dr. Christian Odinga is a dedicated veterinary epidemiologist with an impressive background in clinical, field, and laboratory work, specializing in disease detection, prevention, and control. With a focus on both animal and human health, his career is shaped by a commitment to evidence-based recommendations aimed at improving healthcare practices. Dr. Odinga is known for his active role in science communication, using his exceptional interpersonal skills to present complex information effectively to diverse audiences. His research spans a range of topics, including zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and the integration of environmental health into One Health frameworks. He has contributed significantly to various public health projects across East and Southern Africa, utilizing his expertise to enhance the governance and operationalization of One Health initiatives. Furthermore, he is actively involved in education and capacity-building programs, helping to improve science communication skills among stakeholders in the One Health space. His work bridges the gap between research, policy, and practice, with a focus on community-based surveillance and cross-sector collaboration. Dr. Odinga’s professional journey is marked by leadership roles and impactful contributions to improving health outcomes in both rural and urban settings.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Christian Odinga holds a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Nairobi, awarded in September 2017. He is currently pursuing an MSc in Veterinary Epidemiology and Economics at the same institution, with an expected completion date in May 2025. His academic background provides a solid foundation in veterinary medicine, with a specific focus on epidemiology and the economic aspects of disease management. Dr. Odinga’s education has equipped him with the knowledge to understand complex epidemiological models, the significance of data collection, and the economic impacts of animal and human health interventions. His educational trajectory is complemented by a wide range of professional training in disaster management, animal welfare, and open data collection techniques. This strong academic foundation, combined with ongoing professional development, enables Dr. Odinga to address the pressing issues of antimicrobial resistance, zoonotic disease control, and community health through evidence-based research and innovative solutions.

Professional Experience

Dr. Christian Odinga’s professional experience spans several years and encompasses a variety of roles within veterinary epidemiology, public health, and One Health initiatives. Since June 2022, he has served as a Program Officer at ISAAA AfriCenter, focusing on capacitating One Health in Eastern and Southern Africa. In this role, he has coordinated stakeholder mapping, facilitated media science cafés, and organized regional conferences to enhance the integration of One Health approaches across multiple countries. Dr. Odinga’s prior experience includes working as an MSc Graduate Fellow with the Smithsonian Institute, where he contributed to rabies surveillance in Laikipia County, Kenya. His work involved implementing community-based surveillance studies, presenting findings to stakeholders, and providing technical reports for donors and supervisors. Additionally, he has held various research and data management positions in projects focused on zoonoses, antimicrobial resistance, and animal welfare in slaughterhouses. His work in coordinating field data collection, conducting antimicrobial susceptibility tests, and leading public engagement efforts has helped improve animal health practices and disease surveillance systems in Kenya and beyond. Dr. Odinga’s expertise also extends to training stakeholders, such as slaughterhouse workers and government officials, on disease prevention and health promotion.

Research Interests

Dr. Christian Odinga’s research interests are centered around veterinary epidemiology, One Health, zoonotic diseases, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). His work focuses on understanding the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health to improve disease surveillance, prevention, and control strategies. He has actively contributed to several studies on rabies surveillance in Kenya, exploring the effectiveness of community-based reporting systems and the role of vaccination campaigns in controlling the disease. Dr. Odinga is particularly interested in exploring the spatial ecology of free-roaming domestic dogs and their role in disease transmission, as well as addressing the growing threat of AMR in slaughterhouses and agricultural settings. He advocates for a One Health approach that integrates environmental health into public health policies and practices, aiming to enhance disease control efforts through cross-sector collaboration. His research is interdisciplinary, combining fieldwork with data analytics and community engagement, all aimed at improving public health outcomes. Through his research, Dr. Odinga seeks to bridge the gap between science, policy, and practice to address pressing health challenges in Africa and globally.

Research Skills

Dr. Christian Odinga possesses a wide array of research skills that make him a proficient and effective veterinary epidemiologist. His skills span across data collection, fieldwork, epidemiological modeling, and laboratory testing, with a focus on zoonotic disease surveillance and antimicrobial resistance. Dr. Odinga has extensive experience in using mobile data collection tools like Open Data Kit (ODK) for field research, ensuring accurate and timely data collection. He is proficient in statistical analysis and data management, using tools such as R coding for data cleaning, quality checks, and database management. His work also involves conducting antimicrobial susceptibility tests in laboratory settings, contributing to the assessment of AMR in various animal populations. Additionally, Dr. Odinga has a strong background in community engagement, facilitating workshops, focus group discussions, and science communication efforts aimed at raising awareness about public health issues. His ability to work with diverse stakeholders—including government officials, NGOs, and research institutions—further enhances his research capabilities. These skills, coupled with his expertise in surveillance and epidemiological methods, make Dr. Odinga an asset to any research team focused on improving global health outcomes.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Christian Odinga’s contributions to veterinary epidemiology and One Health have earned him recognition within the academic and professional communities. While specific awards and honors have not been listed, his work in public health and disease control, particularly in rural and underserved communities in East and Southern Africa, is widely regarded. His research publications in prestigious journals such as Emerging Infectious Diseases and Scientific Reports reflect the high impact of his work in the field of veterinary epidemiology. Furthermore, his involvement in organizing regional and international conferences, such as the Africa Biennial Biosciences Communication Symposium and the World One Health Congress, demonstrates his leadership and influence in promoting One Health initiatives. Through these endeavors, Dr. Odinga has contributed significantly to advancing the integration of human, animal, and environmental health across multiple sectors. His editorial work on educational materials and his advocacy for antimicrobial resistance education further showcase his dedication to improving public health and animal welfare. Although he may not yet have received specific individual awards, Dr. Odinga’s career reflects a strong commitment to excellence in veterinary epidemiology and public health.

Conclusion

Dr. Christian Odinga exhibits a strong combination of academic rigor, practical experience, and leadership in veterinary epidemiology and One Health. His efforts in advancing disease control and public health, particularly in underserved regions, make him a worthy candidate for the Best Researcher Award. If he continues expanding his research impact and diversifies into new areas of global health, his influence and contributions will be even more remarkable.

Publication Top Notes

  1. The antimicrobial resistance landscape of slaughterhouses in western Kenya: A microbiological case study
    • Authors: Hamilton, K.A., Njoroge, S.M., Momanyi, K., Fèvre, E.M., Falzon, L.C.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: One Health
  2. Integrated Community-Based Reporting and Field Diagnostics for Improved Rabies Surveillance in Rural Laikipia, Kenya
    • Authors: Odinga, C.O., Thomas, L.F., Wambugu, E., Waitumbi, J., Worsley-Tonks, K.E.L.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Zoonoses and Public Health
  3. Antimicrobial Resistance in Slaughterhouses, Kenya
    • Authors: Hamilton, K.A., Njoroge, S.M., Momanyi, K., Fèvre, E.M., Falzon, L.C.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Emerging Infectious Diseases
    • Citations: 2
  4. Electronic data collection to enhance disease surveillance at the slaughterhouse in a smallholder production system
    • Authors: Falzon, L.C., Ogola, J.G., Odinga, C.O., Fèvre, E.M., Berezowski, J.
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Scientific Reports
    • Citations: 9
  5. Who let the dogs out? Exploring the spatial ecology of free-roaming domestic dogs in western Kenya
    • Authors: Muinde, P., Bettridge, J.M., Sousa, F.M., Fèvre, E.M., Falzon, L.C.
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Ecology and Evolution
    • Citations: 19
  6. The Genome of Caenorhabditis bovis
    • Authors: Stevens, L., Rooke, S., Falzon, L.C., Fèvre, E.M., Blaxter, M.
    • Year: 2020
    • Journal: Current Biology
    • Citations: 32