MOHAMED MOTAWEI | Plant Biotechnology | Excellence in Plant Research

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. MOHAMED MOTAWEI | Plant Biotechnology | Excellence in Plant Research

Qassim university, Saudi Arabia

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🌟  Suitable for this Excellence in Plant Research

Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Motawei, an Associate Professor at Qassim University, specializes in Plant Breeding and Biotechnology. His expertise in molecular markers, genetic mapping, and QTL analysis has significantly advanced agricultural research. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, his research has contributed to improving drought-resistant crops and genetic fingerprinting techniques.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Motawei holds a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding and Molecular Genetics from Alexandria University, Egypt, in collaboration with Bologna University, Italy (1996). His research focused on molecular markers for crop improvement. He earned an M.Sc. in Crop Physiology (1990) and a B.Sc. in Agriculture (1985) from Alexandria University, Egypt. His doctoral and postdoctoral studies have laid a strong foundation in genetic engineering, DNA markers, and abiotic stress resistance in crops. His academic journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing plant biotechnology.

 💼  Professional Experience

Dr. Motawei has served as a Professor at Alexandria University and an Associate Professor at Qassim University, Saudi Arabia. His career includes roles as Assistant Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Research Scientist specializing in plant genomics, molecular breeding, and biotechnology applications. His teaching experience spans over 30 years, covering genetics, plant breeding, and molecular markers. Additionally, he has led several funded research projects focused on wheat genetic resistance, plant tissue culture, and biotechnology applications in agriculture. His contributions have significantly impacted crop improvement and agricultural sustainability.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Motawei has received prestigious grants and recognitions for his research contributions, including:

  • King Abdul-Aziz City for Science and Technology Research Grant for molecular studies on wheat resistance.
  • U.S.-Egypt Joint Science & Technology Grant for wheat biotechnology research.
  • Center of Excellence in Biotechnology Research Grant for molecular fingerprinting of cereal cyst nematodes.
  • Recognized by international conferences such as Plant & Genome IX, InterDrought, and BioVision Alexandria.
    His work has enhanced agricultural biotechnology applications and improved genetic diversity studies in staple crops.

🌍Research skills On Plant Biotechnology 

Dr. Motawei is an expert in molecular markers (RFLP, RAPD, SSR, ISSR, SNP), QTL mapping, and genetic fingerprinting. He applies biotechnological tools for crop improvement, focusing on abiotic stress resistance, gene mapping, and plant tissue culture. His research integrates bioinformatics, genome editing, and molecular diagnostics to develop resilient crop varieties. He has also contributed to biotechnology-based breeding programs aimed at increasing crop yield and stress tolerance. His expertise extends to teaching advanced genetics, experimental design, and DNA-based breeding techniques.

📖Publications

Investigation of the Magnesium Content and Productivity of Wheat Genotypes Under Organic and Conventional Inorganic Fertilizer Application
  • Journal: Life
  • Year: 2025
  • Authors: Essam M. Abd-Elmoniem, Nasser S. Al-Ghumaiz, Mohamad I. Motawei, Soleman Al-Otayk, Mokded Rabhi
Exploring molecular variation and combining ability of local and exotic bread wheat genotypes under well-watered and drought conditions
  • Journal: PeerJ
  • Year: 2025
  • Authors: Mohamed I. Motawei, Mohamed M. Kamara, Medhat Rehan
Water productivity and growth parameters of Fawn-tall fescue and Tekapo-orchard grass under deficit irrigation in arid zones
  • Journal: Brazilian Journal of Biology
  • Year: 2024
  • Authors: A. M. Alzoheiry, N. S. AL Ghumaiz, M. I. Motawei, M. A. Kassem
Nutritional Composition and Productivity of Panicum maximum cv. “Mombasa” Under Different Levels of Nitrogen Fertilization and Water Deficit
  • Journal: Life
  • Year: 2024
  • Authors: Saleh Alsunaydi, Abdulaziz B. Alharbi, Abdulrahman A. Al-Soqeer, Mohamed I. Motawei
Characterization of Improved Barley Germplasm under Desert Environments Using Agro-Morphological and SSR Markers
  • Journal: Agronomy
  • Year: 2024
  • Authors: Abdelhalim I. Ghazy, Mohamed A. Ali, Eid I. Ibrahim, Mohammed Sallam, Talal K. Al Ateeq, Ibrahim Al-Ashkar, Mohamed I. Motawei, Hussein Abdel-Haleem, Abdullah A. Al-Doss

 

Idrissou Ahoudou | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Idrissou Ahoudou | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Genetics, Biotechnology, and Seed Sciences Unit, University of Abomey-Calavi | Benin

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🌟 IDRISSOU AHOUDOU: A LEADING RESEARCHER IN GENETICS AND PLANT BREEDING

INTRODUCTION

Dr. Idrissou Ahoudou is a distinguished researcher in Genetics and Plant Breeding, with a strong academic background and extensive experience in plant genetics, biotechnology, and crop improvement. His research contributions have significantly advanced the understanding of genetic diversity and crop resilience, particularly in Africa.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Ahoudou’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Crop Production from the National School of Agricultural Sciences and Techniques of Djougou, University of Parakou, Benin, in 2014. He later pursued a Master of Science in Biotechnology and Plant Breeding at the Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin, completing his studies in 2018. Currently, he is set to defend his PhD at the University of Abomey-Calavi on March 19, 2025.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Ahoudou has served in multiple research capacities, notably as a Research Assistant from 2019 to 2022 in the “Improved Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato Value Chains for Food and Nutrition Security in Benin, Niger, and Nigeria” project. His responsibilities included:

  • Study Design and Implementation – Conceptualizing and executing baseline studies.
  • Germplasm Conservation – Preserving sweet potato genetic diversity.
  • Cultivar Evaluation – Identifying high-yield sweet potato cultivars.
  • Capacity Building – Training farmers in sustainable agricultural practices.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Plant Genetics

Dr. Ahoudou specializes in plant genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, and crop breeding. His research encompasses:

  • Participatory Breeding Approaches – Engaging farmers in cultivar evaluation.
  • Genetic Improvement of Crops – Enhancing yield and stress resistance.
  • Bioinformatics Applications – Utilizing computational tools for genetic analysis.
  • Climate Change Adaptation – Developing resilient crop varieties.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Ahoudou’s work has had a profound impact on food security and sustainable agriculture in West Africa. His research in genetic improvement of sweet potatoes and tomatoes has contributed to better yield stability and nutritional value, benefiting local farmers and agricultural stakeholders.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Ahoudou has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, including:

  1. Ahoudou, I., et al. (2023). Farmers’ selection criteria for sweet potato varieties in Benin: An application of Best-Worst Scaling, Experimental Agriculture, 59, p. e25. [DOI: 10.1017/S0014479723000224]
  2. Ahoudou, I., et al. (2025). Multi-environmental traits selection and farmer’s participatory assessment of mean performance and stability of orange-fleshed sweet potato genotypes in Benin, Heliyon, 11(2), p. e41685. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e41685]

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • 2018 – Letter of Congratulations from the Director of the Genetics, Horticulture, and Seed Science Laboratory for securing an African Union Research Grant.
  • 2011 – Benin Government Scholarship for Bachelor studies.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

With his dedication to plant genetics and breeding, Dr. Ahoudou aims to:

  • Develop new resilient crop varieties.
  • Enhance bioinformatics integration in genetic studies.
  • Strengthen collaborations between research institutions and farmers.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Ahoudou continues to be a trailblazer in genetics and plant breeding, focusing on improving food security and sustainable agricultural practices. His research and fieldwork have positioned him as an influential figure in crop genetics and biotechnology.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Multi-environmental traits selection and farmer’s participatory assessment of mean performance and stability of orange-fleshed sweet potato genotypes in Benin

  • Authors: I. Ahoudou, V.N. Fassinou Hotegni, D.E.O. Sogbohossou, I. Moumouni-Moussa, E.G. Achigan-Dako

  • Journal: Heliyon

  • Year: 2025

 

RAJAPPA JOGA | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. RAJAPPA JOGA | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

ICAR- National Institute for Research on Commercial Agriculture (NIRCA) | India

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DR. RAJAPPA J.J.: A RENOWNED SCIENTIST IN ECONOMIC BOTANY & PLANT GENETIC RESOURCES 🌿

INTRODUCTION

Dr. Rajappa J.J. is a distinguished Senior Scientist in Economic Botany and Plant Genetic Resources at the ICAR-National Institute for Research on Commercial Agriculture (NIRCA), formerly ICAR-Central Tobacco Research Institute, India. With over 16 years of expertise spanning research, academia, and industry, he has made significant contributions to plant genetic resources, agroforestry, and biotechnology.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Rajappa J.J. completed his Ph.D. in Plant Genetic Resources from the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, in 2014. Prior to that, he earned his Master of Science in Biotechnology from Kuvempu University, Karnataka, in 2003, and his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Botany from Sahyadri Science College, Karnataka, in 2001. His strong academic foundation laid the groundwork for his remarkable research career.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Rajappa has accumulated over a decade of experience in ICAR institutions and five years in the biotechnology industry. He has held pivotal positions, including:

  • Senior Scientist (Economic Botany & Plant Genetic Resources) (2022–Present) at ICAR-CTRI, Rajahmundry.
  • Scientist (Sr. Scale) (2017–2022) at ICAR-CTRI Research Station, Hunsur, Karnataka.
  • Scientist (Economic Botany & Plant Genetic Resources) (2013–2017) at ICAR Research Complex for Northeastern Hill Region, Umiam, Meghalaya.

His industrial experience includes roles as a Research Scientist in R&D (Biotechnology) at Jubilant Organosys Ltd., Noida, and Senior Executive Officer at Bangalore Genei Pvt. Ltd.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Plant Biotechnology 

Dr. Rajappa’s research interests encompass plant genetic resources, plant biotechnology, genetics and plant breeding, agroforestry, agrobiodiversity, and natural resource management. He has led multiple projects on tobacco genetic resources, high-yielding crop varieties, and conservation of endangered medicinal plants.

  • Tobacco Genetic Resources Conservation (PI, 2021–Present)
  • Development of Disease-Resistant Tobacco Varieties (Co-PI, 2022–Present)
  • NER-Banana Program: Downstream Processing (Project Coordinator, 2018–2021)
  • Investigation of Medicinal Plants in NE India (PI, 2020–2021)

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Rajappa’s research has significantly influenced crop improvement, biodiversity conservation, and agricultural sustainability. His work has provided valuable insights into the genetic diversity of crops and improved agricultural practices through biotechnology applications.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Rajappa has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and contributed to several book chapters. His publications focus on plant genetic diversity, molecular characterization, and sustainable agricultural practices.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Best Scientist Award – ICAR Recognition
  • Outstanding Contribution Award – Agricultural Research Excellence
  • Research Innovation Award – Plant Biotechnology
  • Young Scientist Award – Contribution to Genetic Resources
  • ICAR Fellow Recognition – Leadership in Crop Improvement

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

With an unwavering dedication to advancing agricultural research, Dr. Rajappa’s future endeavors will likely focus on developing resilient crop varieties, enhancing biodiversity conservation strategies, and leveraging biotechnology for sustainable agriculture. His work will continue to shape the future of crop improvement and environmental sustainability.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Rajappa J.J. continues to drive groundbreaking research in plant genetic resources and sustainable agriculture. His commitment to scientific excellence and innovation positions him as a leading figure in agro-biodiversity conservation and biotechnology applications.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Recent advances in experimental design of synthetic microbial communities for biocontrol application

Authors:  B. Karmakar, D. Thakuria, R.H. Begum, R.J. Joga
Journal:  BioControl
Year:  2025

Timur Turdiyev | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Timur Turdiyev | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology | Kazakhstan

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TIMUR TURDIYEV: HEAD RESEARCHER AT INSTITUTE OF PLANT BIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 🌱

INTRODUCTION

Timur Turdiyev, a prominent researcher in plant biotechnology and conservation, is the Head Researcher at the Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology (IPBB) in Almaty, Kazakhstan. With over two decades of experience in plant science, his research focuses on advancing biotechnological methods for preserving and improving plant genetic resources, particularly in Kazakhstan. His innovative contributions to biotechnology, plant breeding, and biodiversity have had a significant impact on sustainable agriculture in the region.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Timur’s academic journey began at the Kazakh State Agrarian University, where he studied from 1996 to 2001. His passion for biotechnology led him to pursue a thesis in the field, which he successfully defended in 2010. He was awarded the academic title of Associate Professor in Biology in 2021. Throughout his academic career, he has continually expanded his expertise in plant biology, breeding, and biotechnology.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Since 2002, Timur has been part of the IPBB, initially starting as an intern researcher and eventually rising to the position of Head Researcher in 2025. As a key figure in plant biotechnology research, he has led numerous research projects aimed at advancing Kazakhstan’s agricultural capabilities, including the preservation and propagation of various plant species using biotechnological methods.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Plant Biotechnology

Timur’s contributions to biotechnology and plant conservation have been transformative. His research focuses on developing techniques for long-term preservation, cryopreservation, and micropropagation of plants like rice, grapevine, raspberries, and poplars. His projects, such as the creation of cryobanks and the development of biotechnological regulations for germplasm preservation, are critical to ensuring sustainable plant breeding and conservation in Kazakhstan.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Timur’s work has not only advanced plant biotechnology in Kazakhstan but also contributed significantly to global scientific knowledge. His involvement in international projects has established him as a respected figure in the scientific community. Through his research, he has improved the efficiency of plant breeding, offering potential solutions for combating agricultural challenges, particularly in arid regions.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Timur has published extensively in reputable scientific journals. With an h-index of 6 on Scopus, his research is widely recognized, particularly in the fields of plant genetics and biotechnology. His work, including studies on apple and plum genetic diversity and the preservation of apple germplasm, has been published in journals like In vitro cellular & developmental biology-plant and Tree Genetics & Genomes.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • The “AlgysKhat”certificate in 2023 for his contribution to higher education and science in Kazakhstan.
  • Recognition as Associate Professor in Biology in 2021.
  • Multiple international patents for his innovations in plant biotechnology.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Timur’s research legacy is rooted in the preservation and enhancement of plant biodiversity. His ongoing projects on pistachio and almond biodiversity, as well as his continued focus on cryopreservation and clonal micropropagation, ensure his future contributions will play a pivotal role in sustainable agriculture and plant biotechnology.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Timur Turdiyev’s commitment to advancing plant biotechnology, conservation, and agricultural sustainability continues to shape Kazakhstan’s agricultural landscape. His pioneering work in biotechnological methods for plant preservation and breeding has not only improved agricultural practices but also provided a model for other countries in the region.

📑NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

Micropropagation of berry crops for creation of germplasm cryobanks
  • Journal: Brazilian Journal of Biology
  • Year: 2024
  • Contributors: T. Turdiyev; I. Kovalchuk; Z. Mukhitdinova; O. Hunger; S. Frolov; B. Kabylbekova
In Vitro Approbation of Microbial Preparations to Shield Fruit Crops from Fire Blight: Physio-Biochemical Parameters
  • Journal: Plants
  • Year: 2024 (May)
  • Contributors: Asil A. Nurzhanova; Aigerim Mamirova; Valentina Mursaliyeva; Asiya S. Nurmagambetova; Zhadyra Zhumasheva; Тимур Турдиев; Svetlana Kushnarenko; Elvira Ismailova
In vitro germplasm cold storage of fruit and berry plants of Kazakhstan
  • Journal: EurAsian Journal of BioSciences
  • Year: 2020
  • Contributors: Turdiyev, T.T.; Kovalchuk, I.Y.; Kabylbekova, B.Z.; Chukanova, N.I.; Frolov, S.N
Reduced major minerals and increased minor nutrients improve micropropagation in three apple cultivars
  • Journal: In Vitro Cellular and Developmental Biology – Plant
  • Year: 2020
  • Contributors: Kabylbekova, B.; Kovalchuk, I.; Mukhitdinova, Z.; Turdiyev, T.; Kairova, G.; Madiyeva, G.; Reed, B.M.
Nitrogen ions and nitrogen ion proportions impact the growth of apricot (Prunus armeniaca) shoot cultures
  • Journal: Plant Cell, Tissue and Organ Culture
  • Year: 2018
  • Contributors: Kovalchuk, I.Y.; Mukhitdinova, Z.; Turdiyev, T.; Madiyeva, G.; Akin, M.; Eyduran, E.; Reed, B.M.

 

Mounia ENNAMI | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof . Mounia ENNAMI | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

IAV Hassan II | Morocco

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🌱 DR. ENNAMI MOUNIA: A PIONEERING SCHOLAR IN PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY 

INTRODUCTION

Dr. Ennami Mounia is a distinguished Assistant Professor at the Production, Protection, and Biotechnology Plant Department of the Agronomic and Veterinary Institute Hassan II in Rabat, Morocco. With a profound dedication to agronomy and plant biotechnology, she has significantly contributed to research and education in her field. Her expertise lies in microbial biotechnology, plant protection, and sustainable agricultural practices, making her an influential figure in modern agronomic sciences.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Mounia’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology for Health and Food Safety from Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez (2010). She then pursued a Master’s degree in Microbial Biotechnology from the same institution (2012), equipping herself with essential knowledge in microbiology and biotechnology. Her passion for research led her to earn a Ph.D. in Agronomy from the Hassan II Institute of Agronomy & Veterinary Medicine (IAV) and the National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA) in Rabat, Morocco (2018). Her doctoral research, conducted under the prestigious MEDILEG project, was a significant milestone in her academic career.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Mounia’s professional journey reflects her dedication to academia and research:

  • 2021–Present: Assistant Professor at the Production, Protection, and Biotechnology Plant Department, Agronomic and Veterinary Institute Hassan II – Rabat, Morocco.
  • 2020–2021: Assistant Professor at the Horticultural Department, Agronomic and Veterinary Institute Hassan II – Agadir Horticultural Campus, Morocco.
  • 2019 & 2023: Temporary Professor at the University Mohamed V, Faculty of Sciences, specializing in food science and biostatistics.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Plant Genetics

Dr. Mounia’s research focuses on the sustainable management of plant diseases, genetic diversity, and biotechnological advancements in plant protection. She has been actively involved in multiple high-impact research projects:

  • BONEX Project (2023-Present): Funded by PRIMA, this project aims to provide practical tools for implementing the WEFE (Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem) nexus in the Mediterranean.
  • Projet Prima (2024–2027): Researching innovative nanotechnology and magnetic-filtration techniques for improving irrigation efficiency.
  • Irasmus Project (2021–2024): Strengthening agri-entrepreneurship and community engagement in Africa.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Mounia’s work has significantly influenced plant biotechnology and agronomic sciences. Her research on Orobanche crenata, a parasitic plant affecting legumes, has provided novel insights into plant resistance mechanisms. Her contributions to sustainable agricultural practices have been recognized at national and international levels, impacting both academia and practical farming applications.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Mounia has authored several peer-reviewed publications, including:

  • Studies on genetic diversity and resistance mechanisms of Orobanche crenata.
  • Investigations into the use of Ziziphus lotus fruit for heavy metal removal from water.
  • Research on the induction of plant resistance through exogenous application of growth regulators. Her publications in esteemed journals, such as Pest Management Science, Journal of Agricultural Science, and Crop Protection, highlight her expertise and dedication to advancing agronomic sciences.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Prestigious research grants from PRIMA and ERA-Net.
  • Invitations to present at international conferences, such as the International Food Legumes Research Conference.
  • Recognition for her pioneering work in plant protection and biotechnology.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking ahead, Dr. Mounia aims to further her research on biotechnological interventions in agriculture, focusing on genetic improvements and eco-friendly plant protection techniques. With her dedication and expertise, she will continue to influence the global agronomic and biotechnology landscapes.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Ennami Mounia is a leading force in agronomic research, dedicated to enhancing sustainable agricultural practices through innovative biotechnology solutions. Her academic and professional contributions continue to shape the future of plant protection and biotechnology.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) in Morocco Revealed by Sequence-Related Amplified Polymorphism Markers
  • Authors: Mounia Ennami, Khadija Khouya, Houda Taimourya, Abdellah Benbya, Mohamed Kaddi, Slimane Khayi, Ghizlan Diria, Rabha Abdelwahd, Fatima Gaboun, Rachid Mentag
  • Journal: Horticulturae
  • Year: 2025
Enhancing Rooting Efficiency and Nutrient Uptake in Rosa damascena Mill. Cuttings: Insights into Auxin and Cutting Type Optimization
  • Authors: Soumia El Malahi, Noureddine Sbah, Jamaa Zim, Mounia Ennami, Bahija Zakri, Wafaa Mokhtari, Houda Taimourya, Mimoun Mokhtari, Lalla Mina Idrissi Hassani
  • Journal: Plant Science Today
  • Year: 2023
Effects of Salicylic Acid and Indole Acetic Acid Exogenous Applications on Induction of Faba Bean Resistance Against Orobanche crenata
  • Authors: Mounia Ennami
  • Journal: The Plant Pathology Journal
  • Year: 2020
Growth-Defense Tradeoffs and Source-Sink Relationship During Both Faba Bean and Lentil Interactions with Orobanche crenata Forsk
  • Authors: Mounia Ennami
  • Journal: Crop Protection
  • Year: 2020
Characterization of Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Moroccan Lentil Cultivars and Landraces Using Molecular Markers
  • Authors: Mounia Ennami
  • Journal: Physiology and Molecular Biology of Plants
  • Year: 2019

 

MUNTARADZI MATIVAVARIRA | PLANT BREEDING | BEST RESEARCHER AWARD

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DR. MUNTARADZI MATIVAVARIRA | PLANT BREEDING | BEST RESEARCHER AWARD

Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology | Zimbabwe

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🌱PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY 

Munyaradzi Mativavarira is an experienced agricultural specialist with over 20 years of involvement in crop research and the commercial seed industry. He has an outstanding background in plant breeding, seed systems, and agricultural sustainability, particularly focused on sorghum, millets, rice, sweet potatoes, Irish potatoes, and maize. Munyaradzi has contributed significantly to indigenous plant value chain development, seed business development, and agroforestry projects. His research emphasizes improving crop varieties, developing sustainable seed systems, and enhancing productivity through cutting-edge technologies.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Munyaradzi’s academic journey began with a deep interest in plant breeding, completing his BSc in Agriculture in 2004. His work during this period focused on evaluating groundnut varieties for yield traits. He then pursued an MPhil in Applied Biology and Biochemistry in 2014, researching sweet sorghum cultivars’ water productivity and fodder quality in semi-arid areas of Zimbabwe. His academic progression culminated in a DPhil in Plant Breeding in 2024, where he studied the seed systems and genetic diversity of spider plant (Cleome gynandra L.) in Zimbabwe.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Munyaradzi has held several key roles in the field of plant breeding and agricultural development. He is currently serving as a Plant Breeder at the National Biotechnology Authority, where he leads initiatives in indigenous plants value chain development, agroforestry, and seed system formulation. Prior to this, he was a DPhil Research Fellow at Marondera University of Agricultural Science and Technology, and a Research Fellow at ILRI in Kenya. Throughout his career, he has been involved in major projects, such as the promotion of drought-tolerant maize varieties in Africa and the enhancement of rice cultivars.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON PLANT BREEDING

Munyaradzi’s contributions have been pivotal in enhancing crop productivity and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. His research focuses on plant breeding, seed systems, and the sustainable commercialization of indigenous African vegetables (AIVs). He has also contributed to the development of regulations for the seed sector, including the harmonization of seed standards in Southern Africa. His work on spider plant landraces, water productivity, and genetic variability has been groundbreaking, paving the way for future agricultural innovations in Zimbabwe and beyond.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Munyaradzi’s work has had a profound impact on the agricultural sector, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Through his research and leadership, he has enhanced food security, improved crop varieties, and supported sustainable agricultural practices. His efforts in seed systems development and crop variety improvement have influenced both local and international agricultural policies, benefiting smallholder farmers and rural communities. His leadership in projects like the Drought Tolerant Maize for Africa Project has contributed to regional food security goals.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Munyaradzi has an extensive list of academic publications and citations. His notable works include:

  • Mativavarira et al. 2025: “Genotype by environment analysis of spider plant landraces in Zimbabwe” in Journal of Crop Improvement.
  • Mativavarira et al. 2024: “Genetic variability and traits association of spider plant landraces” in African Journal of Rural Development.
  • Nyoni et al. 2024: “Untapped potential of wild fruits in Africa” in Food Security and Nutrition.

These publications contribute to advancing knowledge in crop improvement and the commercialization of indigenous crops.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Short Research Stay Grant from University of Ghent and VIB-IPBO for his project on molecular characterization of spider plant accessions.
  • Principal Investigator for the enhancement of high-yielding rice cultivars and drought-tolerant maize varieties in Africa, funded by KAFACI and Africa Rice.
  • He has received various other professional recognition for his contributions to agricultural research and development.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As Munyaradzi continues his research, his legacy in agricultural development is poised to grow. His future contributions are likely to focus on enhancing crop resilience in the face of climate change, promoting the commercialization of indigenous vegetables, and advancing biotechnology solutions to meet Africa’s agricultural challenges.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Munyaradzi Mativavarira’s career reflects his unwavering commitment to agricultural advancement, sustainability, and food security. His leadership and expertise have greatly contributed to improving crop varieties and seed systems in Zimbabwe and Africa. His work in plant breeding and his focus on indigenous plants ensure that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of agricultural researchers.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Genotype by environment analysis of the leaf and seed yield traits of spider plant (Cleome gynandra L.) landraces in Zimbabwe
    • Journal: Journal of Crop Improvement
    • Year: 2025
    • Contributors: M. Mativavarira; K. Simango; E. Gasura; M. Nyoni; F. Makore
Delivery of Drugs and Vaccines Through Plant Molecular Farming
  • Book: Concepts and Strategies in Plant Sciences
  • Year: 2024
  • Contributors: Makomborero Nyoni; Tatenda Clive Murashiki; Vimbai Samukange; Reward Muzerengwa; Cyprian Mahuni; Prisca Nonceba Ncube; Tafadzwa Maranjisi; Praise Chirilele; Munyaradzi Mativavarira; Progress Dube et al.
Food Security and Nutrition
  • Book: CRC Press
  • Year: 2024
  • Contributors: Callistus Bvenura; Learnmore Kambizi
Spider plant (Cleome gynandra) breeding priorities and preferences among landraces in Zimbabwe
  • Journal: Journal of Underutilised Crops Research
  • Year: 2024
  • Contributors: Munyaradzi Mativavarira; Kennedy Simango; Edmore Gasura; Patrick Kasasa; Hilton Mbozi; Priscah Makamure
Opportunities for African indigenous vegetables (AIVs): regulations in the vegetable seed sector in sub-Saharan Africa
  • Journal: CABI Agriculture and Bioscience
  • Year: 2024
  • Contributors: Munyaradzi Mativavarira; Kennedy Simango; Praxedis Dube; Edmore Gasura; Dexter Tony Savadye; Claid Mujaju
Traditional Herbal Remedies Used in Management of Acute Bronchitis, Common Cold, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 in Southern Africa
  • Book: Sustainable Uses and Prospects of Medicinal Plants
  • Year: 2023
  • Contributors: Makomborero Nyoni; Tatenda Clive Murashiki; Farisai Caroline Chibage; Moira Amanda Mubani; Reward Muzerengwa; Cyprian Mahuni; Praise Chirilele; Tafadzwa Phyllis Maranjisi; Caroline Peninah Kwenda; Progress Dube et al.