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

 

Takwa Wannassi | Plant-Animal Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Takwa Wannassi | Plant-Animal Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Regional Center Of Research Agricultural Sidi Bouzid | Tunisia

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TAKWA WANNASSI: A LEADING RESEARCHER IN PLANT PROTECTION AND SOIL MICROBIOMES 🌿

INTRODUCTION

Takwa Wannassi is a distinguished postdoctoral researcher specializing in plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPR) and soil microbiomes. With a strong foundation in plant protection and environmental sciences, her work aims to enhance plant growth and combat diseases through innovative microbial interactions. Based in Tunisia, she has gained extensive experience in molecular biology, pest management, and genomics, contributing significantly to agricultural sustainability.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Takwa Wannassi’s academic journey began with a strong focus on biological sciences. She earned her Secondary Education Certificate in Experimental Science from Houcine Bouzaiene High School, Gafsa, Tunisia, before advancing to the Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Gabes for her preparatory cycle in Biology and Geology. She later pursued an Engineer Degree in Horticulture with a specialization in Plant Protection at the Higher Institute of Agronomic Sciences of Chott Mariem (ISA-CM), University of Sousse. Her academic dedication culminated in a Ph.D. in Plant Protection and Environment from the same institution.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Takwa Wannassi has held several prestigious research positions, including:

  • Postdoctoral Fellow at CRRA Sidi Bouzid (2025): Conducting metagenomic analysis and supervising student research as part of the REVINE Project.
  • Postdoctoral Fellow at ISA-CM (2023): Working on the ASTER Prima project, screening endosymbiont bacteria in invasive pests.
  • Development Engineer at the Technical Center of Dates (2022-2023): Implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies and monitoring crop damage.
  • Responsible for the Insectarium at ISA-CM (2022-2023): Managing insect colonies and research operations in entomology laboratories.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON agricultural 

Takwa Wannassi’s research primarily revolves around plant-microbe interactions, emphasizing:

  • Screening PGPR for plant growth and disease protection.
  • Metagenomic analysis of soil microbiomes.
  • Identification and characterization of bacteria and fungi linked to plant health.
  • Sustainable agricultural solutions using microbial interventions. Her expertise extends to DNA extraction, PCR, bioinformatics, and microbial genomics, making her a crucial contributor to agricultural research.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Her contributions to plant protection and microbiome research have advanced sustainable agriculture practices, aiding in disease management and soil health restoration. Her work in invasive pest control has significant implications for food security and crop resilience in Tunisia and beyond.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Takwa Wannassi has authored numerous impactful research papers, including:

  • “Emergence of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi as an economic pest of apricots in Tunisia” (Phytoparasitica Journal)
  • “Insights on the bioecology of the invasive apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi in Tunisia” (Biologia Journal)
  • “The cotton mealybug Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley is spreading in North Africa: first report in Tunisia” (Oriental Insects Journal)
  • “Prevalence of Wolbachia infection in field natural population of the apricot seed wasp” (International Microbiology Journal)
  • “Exploration of bacterial composition and diversity within the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi by 16S rRNA Illumina sequencing” (Symbiosis Journal)

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Best Poster Award (TJASSST 2019)
  • Research Award, University of Victoria, Canada (2019)
  • Mitacs Globalink Research Award, Acadia University, Canada (2021)
  • Best Oral Communication Award, 13th Arab Plant Protection Conference (2022)

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking ahead, Takwa Wannassi aims to: Expand international collaborations in microbial genomics and plant-microbe interactions. Contribute to the development of eco-friendly biofertilizers and biopesticides. Continue mentoring young researchers and students in agricultural biotechnology.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Takwa Wannassi remains committed to advancing plant protection research and sustainable agricultural practices. Her relentless pursuit of knowledge and scientific innovation positions her as a key figure in microbiome studies and plant health improvement.

📑NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Exploration of bacterial composition and diversity within the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) by 16S rRNA Illumina sequencing
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Chahnez Naccache, Brahim Chermiti, and Maha Mezghani Khemakhem
  • Journal: Symbiosis
  • Year: 2025
Prevalence of Wolbachia infection in field natural population of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae)
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Ahmed Sayadi, Khaled Abbes, Salma Djebbi, Chahnez Naccache, Maha Mezghani Khemakhem, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: International Microbiology
  • Year: 2024
The cotton mealybug Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) is spreading in North Africa: first report in Tunisia
  • Authors: Khaled Abbes, Ahlem Harbi, Takwa Wanassi, Michele Ricupero, Gaetana Mazzeo, Agatino Russo, Antonio Biondi, Lucia Zappalà, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: Oriental Insects
  • Year: 2023
Insights on the bioecology of the invasive apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) in Tunisia
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Khaled Abbes, Ahlem Harbi, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: Biologia
  • Year: 2023
Emergence of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi Vassiliev (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) as an economic pest of apricots in Tunisia
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Ahlem Harbi, Khaled Abbes, Mohamed Elimem, Gérard Delvare, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: Phytoparasitica
  • Year: 2022

 

Naveen Chandra Pandey | Plant Systematics | Excellence in Plant Research

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 Dr. Naveen Chandra Pandey | Plant Systematics | Excellence in Plant Research

Botany Department, D.S.B. Campus, Kumaun University, Nainital | India

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🌟 DR. NAVEEN CHANDRA PANDEY

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Naveen Chandra Pandey began his academic journey at Kumaun University, Nainital, where he earned a B.Sc. in Zoology, Botany, and Chemistry in 2006. His passion for the natural world continued as he pursued a Master’s degree in Botany from the same institution, graduating in 2008. Dr. Pandey’s academic commitment culminated in a Ph.D. in Botany from Kumaun University in 2020. Further expanding his knowledge, he completed the PGDESD program from IGNOU in 2022, specializing in Environment and Sustainable Development.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Pandey has had a diverse and enriching career. His early professional experience includes roles such as Field Research Fellow at Lok Chetna Manch NGO (2010-2014) and Herbarium Assistant at the Regional Ayurvedic Research Institute (2014-2015). He later worked as a Resource Person at the ENVIS Centre, GBPNIHE, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora (2020-2021), and as a Field Biologist at the Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Management, GBPNIHE (2020). He is currently a Guest Faculty member in the Botany Department at Kumaun University, Nainital, since 2020.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON  PLANT SYSTEMATICS

Dr. Pandey’s primary research interests include Plant Taxonomy, Biodiversity Conservation, and Ethno-Botany. His notable contributions to these fields include in-depth studies on floristic diversity, phytochemical analysis, and the conservation status of various plant species in the Kumaun Himalayas. His extensive fieldwork and research have enriched the understanding of plant biodiversity in the region

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Pandey’s work has made a significant impact on both academic circles and local communities. His research on ethno-medicinal plants has bridged the gap between traditional knowledge and scientific validation. Through his publications and participation in community outreach, he has influenced conservation practices and increased awareness about the environmental significance of the Himalayas.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Pandey has authored several notable research papers in journals such as Plants, Ecological Frontiers, and Indian Journal of Forestry. His work explores critical topics, including the carbon sequestration potential of protected areas, the diversity of tree species in wildlife sanctuaries, and the regenerative status of plant species. His research has been published widely, contributing significantly to the field of Botany and Biodiversity Conservation.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Best Paper Award in Ecological Studies at National Conference (2023)
  • Research Excellence Award from Kumaun University (2022)
  • Conservation Leadership Award from GBPNIHE (2021)

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking forward, Dr. Pandey is committed to furthering his research on plant taxonomy and biodiversity conservation. His work holds the potential to inspire future generations of scientists, policymakers, and conservationists to protect and preserve the delicate ecosystems of the Himalayas for the future.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Pandey’s journey from a student of Botany to a distinguished guest faculty member is a testament to his dedication and passion for environmental science. His research continues to shape the understanding of plant biodiversity and conservation, particularly in the context of the Himalayas.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Floristic diversity of Binsar wildlife sanctuary, Uttarakhand, India
  • Authors: G. Upadhyay, L.M. Tewari, A. Tewari, N.C. Pandey, K.C. Sekar
    Journal: Ecological Frontiers
    Year: 2024
Status, Threats, Diversity and Distribution of Threatened Medicinal Plants of Kumaun Himalaya, Uttarakhand, India
  • Authors: G. Upadhyay, N.C. Pandey, L.M. Tewari, D. Upreti, V. Lodhiyal, S. Koranga
    Journal: Threatened Medicinal Plants in the Indian Himalayan Region: Sustainability
    Year: 2024
Diversity and regeneration status of tree species in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarakhand, India
  • Authors: L.M.T.N.C.P. Geetanjali Upadhyay, Ashish Tewari
    Journal: Indian Journal of Forestry
    Year: 2024
Diversity, Distribution and Utilization Pattern of Shrubs of Betalghat Region (Kumaun Himalaya)
  • Authors: N.C. Pandey, L.M. Tewari, G.C. Joshi
    Journal: Asian Journal of Plant and Soil Sciences
    Year: 2023
Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Potential of Some Selected Wild Edible Plants of Nainital District, Uttarakhand
  • Authors: L.M. Tewari, G. Tewari, N. Chopra, A. Tewari, N.C. Pandey, M. Kumar
    Journal: Natural Products and Their Utilization Pattern
    Year: 2020