Wageha AWad | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Wageha AWad | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Wageha AWad , University of Veterinary Medicine , Austria

Ass. Prof. Dr. Wageha Awad is a renowned Austrian scientist specializing in poultry and intestinal physiology. Based at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, she brings decades of hands-on experience in veterinary sciences, with a sharp focus on poultry gut health, host-pathogen interactions, and mycotoxin research. Her academic journey spans multiple prestigious institutions across Europe, including postdoctoral work at the Free University of Berlin under the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. Dr. Awad’s prolific career includes numerous publications in high-impact journals and memberships in key scientific societies. She actively reviews for over 25 journals and several international funding agencies, reflecting her global recognition. As a mentor and academic advisor, she supports PhD candidates worldwide. Her research is highly cited, indicating a strong impact in animal physiology and nutrition. Dr. Awad exemplifies excellence in scientific research and academic leadership, making her an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Academic and Research Experience
    Dr. Awad brings over two decades of high-level experience in veterinary sciences, specifically focused on poultry gut health, intestinal physiology, and mycotoxin research. Her academic journey through top-tier institutions such as Vetmeduni Vienna and the Free University of Berlin reflects strong international credentials.

  2. Highly Cited Publications
    With numerous peer-reviewed articles, several with citation counts exceeding 300, her work demonstrates a significant scientific impact. Topics such as tight junction modulation, probiotic effects, and mycotoxin detoxification are not only highly relevant but also influential in advancing animal health science.

  3. Research Leadership & Recognition
    Awarded multiple prestigious fellowships and international research prizes, including Alexander von Humboldt Awards and the Honorary Professorship (2024) at the University of Lahore, she is globally recognized as a leader in her field.

  4. Global Engagement & Peer Review Contributions
    She is an editorial board member of four international journals, reviewer for 25+ journals and international grant agencies (EU, Hong Kong, Poland, etc.), showcasing her authority and trustworthiness in evaluating high-impact research.

  5. Educational Mentorship
    Serving on PhD advisory boards across institutions in Pakistan and Austria, she actively contributes to nurturing the next generation of scientists.

⚖️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Wider Dissemination in Interdisciplinary Forums
    While her publications are strong within veterinary and animal science domains, expanding outreach to interdisciplinary audiences (e.g., One Health, bioinformatics) could further increase her visibility and cross-field impact.

  2. Leadership in International Consortia or Projects
    While she participates extensively in research, leading or coordinating large-scale EU/international consortia could further establish her as a strategic scientific leader.

  3. Enhanced Media/Science Communication
    With such influential research, increasing her presence in public science communication platforms, webinars, or educational series could boost her visibility in public and policymaking arenas.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Wageha Awad began her scientific career with a PhD fellowship from the Österreichische Orient-Gesellschaft (2004–2007), undertaking doctoral studies at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna. Her research focused on animal nutrition, leading to significant insights into feed safety and poultry gut health. During her academic development, she pursued advanced postdoctoral studies at the Free University of Berlin, supported by the prestigious Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, where she deepened her expertise in veterinary physiology. She further contributed to the field through a postdoctoral stint at the Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology, and Biophysics in Vienna. Dr. Awad’s educational background is grounded in rigorous training in both basic and applied sciences, especially in gastrointestinal physiology, feed toxicology, and animal welfare. Her strong academic foundation across leading European institutions has played a pivotal role in shaping her multifaceted research approach in veterinary science.

💼 Professional Experience:

Dr. Awad currently holds the position of Assistant Professor at the Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Vetmeduni Vienna (since 2019). Prior to this, she served as a Senior Postdoctoral Associate at the same clinic for nearly a decade. Her earlier roles include a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute of Physiology and as an Alexander von Humboldt Fellow at the Free University of Berlin. Her academic journey began as a Scientific Assistant at the Institute of Animal Nutrition, Vetmeduni Vienna. Dr. Awad has actively participated in international research collaborations and has held advisory roles on PhD committees in Pakistan. Her dynamic career reflects a blend of research, teaching, and international academic engagement. Her work has contributed to understanding gut microbiota, dietary toxins, and poultry nutrition, earning her high regard in veterinary circles. Her scientific output and mentorship continue to influence veterinary physiology and animal health globally.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Wageha Awad has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing her scientific excellence. In 2024, she was appointed Honorary Professor at the University of Lahore, Pakistan. She has earned multiple research awards, including the Armin Tschermak von Seysenegg Award (2018), Science Award for Third-party Funds (2017), and two Alexander von Humboldt Research Awards (2007–2009, 2014). Her early research achievements were recognized by the Brigitte Gedek Award for Mycotoxin Research (2008), and she received the H. Wilhelm Schaumann Stiftung Promotion Award in 2013. She was also honored with the Best Poster Award at the 8th International Conference of the European Society of Veterinary and Comparative Nutrition in 2004. These accolades underscore her impactful contributions to veterinary medicine, particularly in gut health, feed additives, and toxicology. Her international recognition and consistent track record of scientific excellence make her a strong nominee for the Best Researcher Award.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Awad’s research centers on intestinal physiology and gut health in poultry, with a particular focus on the structure and function of the epithelial barrier and host-pathogen interactions. Her studies explore the effects of enteric pathogens like Campylobacter, Salmonella, and E. coli on gut integrity and immune responses. She investigates the influence of feed additives, mycotoxins, probiotics, and synbiotics on animal health and performance. Her work also examines microbiota modulation and the physiological mechanisms behind nutrient absorption and barrier function. With over a decade of laboratory and field experience, her innovative studies have led to new strategies for enhancing gut health and preventing disease in poultry through nutrition-based approaches. Her multidisciplinary research integrates veterinary physiology, microbiology, immunology, and nutrition—contributing to the development of safer, more effective feeding practices. Dr. Awad’s contributions are widely cited, making her a leading voice in animal health and poultry science research.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

📖 Effects of dietary inclusion of probiotic and synbiotic on broiler growth and intestinal histomorphology
📖 Indigenous bacteria and bacterial metabolic products in the gastrointestinal tract of broilers
📖 Enteric pathogens and their disruption of the intestinal barrier via tight junction alteration in chickens
📖 Probiotic addition to broiler diets contaminated with deoxynivalenol: performance and villi histology
📖 Intestinal structure and function in broilers fed synbiotics (Enterococcus faecium & oligosaccharides)
📖 Impacts of feed contaminant deoxynivalenol on poultry and swine intestines
📖 Strategies for detoxifying deoxynivalenol in animal feed via microbial biodegradation
📖 Efficacy of an avian-specific probiotic in reducing Campylobacter jejuni colonization in broilers
📖 Age-related gut microbiome shifts in broilers and effects of Campylobacter jejuni infection
📖 Campylobacter infection modulates intestinal barrier function in chickens

📝 Conclusion:

Ass. Prof. Dr. Wageha Awad is an exceptional and highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her academic excellence, publication impact, and global collaborations reflect an accomplished researcher who has made significant contributions to poultry physiology, gut health, and food safety. She has built a sustainable and far-reaching research portfolio, inspiring peers and young researchers alike. With continued focus on global leadership roles and interdisciplinary collaborations, she is poised to further elevate her impact in veterinary sciences and beyond.

Desalegn Begna | Livestock | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Desalegn Begna | Livestock | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Desalegn Begna , Ethiopian Policy Studies Institute , Ethiopia

Dr. Desalegn Begna Rundassa, a seasoned researcher and academician, has over 30 years of experience in the fields of veterinary sciences, animal health, and beekeeping. With a PhD in Rearing of Special Economic Insects from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, he has made significant contributions to livestock development and honeybee epidemiology in Ethiopia and beyond. Currently serving as the Head of the Livestock Policy Study Section at the Policy Study Institute in Ethiopia, he has led numerous research projects and policy interventions. Dr. Desalegn has worked as an Assistant Professor at Ambo University and has held various senior positions, including director at the Oromia Agricultural Research Institute. His expertise spans animal genetics, beekeeping, livestock policy, and the development of sustainable agricultural systems. Dr. Desalegn is recognized for his leadership in promoting agricultural research and policy in Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa. 🐝📚🌍

Publication Profile:

Orcid

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Desalegn Begna Rundassa demonstrates outstanding qualifications for the Research for Best Researcher Award based on his extensive experience, educational background, and significant contributions to the fields of animal health, beekeeping, and livestock policy. Below are the key strengths that make him an ideal candidate for this award:

  1. Deep Expertise and Academic Credentials:
    Dr. Desalegn holds a PhD in Rearing of Special Economic Insects from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, alongside a Master’s degree in Tropical Bees and Beekeeping from Utrecht University. His qualifications in animal science and beekeeping are exceptional and make him a leading expert in livestock and honeybee epidemiology.
  2. Extensive Professional Experience:
    With over 30 years of experience in Ethiopia and other developing countries, Dr. Desalegn has gained profound expertise in livestock production systems, policy analysis, and veterinary services. His experience spans across public-private partnerships, animal health services, and capacity-building for agricultural institutions, including his leadership in over 20 technical assistance assignments.
  3. Leadership in Research and Policy:
    As Head of the Livestock Policy Study Section at the Policy Study Institute in Ethiopia, Dr. Desalegn has been instrumental in developing livestock sector policies, identifying critical development agendas, and proposing innovative solutions to livestock challenges in Ethiopia. His leadership in policy research and strategy development has significantly influenced the sector.
  4. Impactful Publications:
    Dr. Desalegn has contributed widely to scientific literature, with publications in renowned peer-reviewed journals, such as the Journal of Proteome Research, PLoS ONE, and Advances in Agriculture. His work, including research on honeybee health, livestock genetics, and beekeeping systems, has provided valuable insights into the sustainable development of agriculture in Ethiopia and the broader Horn of Africa.
  5. Commitment to Capacity Building and Development:
    Dr. Desalegn has successfully led several capacity-building initiatives, particularly in agricultural and livestock sectors. His role in EU-funded programs and regional projects like Horn of Africa Regional Environment Centre (HoAREC) further exemplifies his commitment to fostering agricultural resilience in the region.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Desalegn’s accomplishments are impressive, there are a few areas where further growth could enhance his profile:

  1. Greater International Collaboration:
    Though Dr. Desalegn has significant experience within Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa, expanding collaborations with international research institutions and global agricultural initiatives could enhance the reach and impact of his work.
  2. Public Engagement and Outreach:
    Dr. Desalegn could improve the visibility of his research by engaging more in public science communication. This could include writing policy briefs for a broader audience, hosting webinars, and participating in international forums and conferences to present his research findings.
  3. Interdisciplinary Research:
    Given his expertise in animal health, beekeeping, and livestock policy, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations between environmental scientists, economists, and social scientists could bring a more comprehensive approach to addressing challenges in livestock systems and sustainability.

Education:

Dr. Desalegn Begna Rundassa’s academic journey is marked by his deep commitment to agricultural science and animal health. He holds a PhD in Rearing of Special Economic Insects from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, where he conducted pioneering research on insect ecology and their role in agriculture. Dr. Desalegn also earned an MSc in Tropical Bees and Beekeeping in Tropical Climates from Utrecht University, the Netherlands, where he further specialized in honeybee management and ecology in tropical environments. His academic foundation began at Haramaya University in Ethiopia, where he completed his BSc in Agriculture, Animal Sciences. Through his education, Dr. Desalegn has built a robust understanding of livestock management, beekeeping, and the environmental impacts of agricultural practices. His research is focused on the intersection of agriculture, policy, and sustainable development in Ethiopia and the wider Horn of Africa. 🎓🐝🌱

Experience:

Dr. Desalegn Begna Rundassa brings over 30 years of professional experience in veterinary sciences, animal health, and beekeeping, with a specific focus on developing countries like Ethiopia. He has extensive expertise in managing livestock production systems, delivering technical assistance in animal health services, and shaping livestock policy. His work spans across various sectors, including agro-pastoral and crop-producing regions, where he has contributed to strategy development, capacity-building, and the design of livestock service delivery frameworks. Notably, he has led over 20 technical assistance assignments, many focused on enhancing regulatory frameworks and epidemiological surveillance systems in the agricultural and livestock sectors. Dr. Desalegn has also served as a senior researcher and director at Ethiopia’s Oromia Agricultural Research Institute. His leadership as a team leader in various EU-funded programs and his work with regional environmental institutions have cemented his reputation as an expert in livestock policy and agricultural development. 🐄🌾📊

Research Focus:

Dr. Desalegn Begna Rundassa’s research focus lies at the intersection of livestock policy, beekeeping, and agricultural development. He is particularly interested in sustainable livestock production systems, with an emphasis on agro-pastoral and pastoral systems in Ethiopia. His work explores strategies to improve livestock service delivery, animal health, and the socio-economic impacts of livestock development in rural settings. He has also conducted extensive research on honeybees, their ecology, and the indirect threats posed to them, such as desert locust infestations in Ethiopia. Dr. Desalegn’s research also delves into the genetics and breeding of livestock, focusing on improving local breeds for better productivity and resilience. Additionally, he is a leading figure in the development of policy solutions for the livestock sector, offering insights into livestock market structures and the challenges faced by honey producers in Ethiopia. His work aims to foster sustainable, productive, and resilient agricultural systems. 🐝📊💡

Publications Top Notes:

  1. The Indirect Threats of Desert Locust Infestation on Honeybees in Ethiopia (2022) – 🐝🌍
  2. Beekeeping Production System, Challenges, and Opportunities in Selected Districts of South Wollo Zone, Amhara, Ethiopia (2021) – 🍯🐝
  3. Ecology and Nest Structures of Ground-Nesting Stingless Bees in the High and Midlands of West Shewa Zone, Ethiopia (2021) – 🐝🏞️
  4. Honey Marketing, Structure and Conduct of Honey Market in Gozamen District, East Gojjam Zone, Amhara Region (2019) – 🍯💼
  5. Characterization of Beekeeping Systems and Honey Marketing in Eastern Zone Tigray, Ethiopia (2014) – 🐝📊
  6. Differential Expressions of Nuclear Proteomes Between Honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) Queen and Worker Larvae: A Deep Insight Into Caste Pathway Decisions (2012) – 🐝🔬
  7. Honeybee (Apis mellifera ligustica) Drone Embryo Proteomes (2011) – 🐝🧬
  8. Mitochondrial Proteins Differential Expression During Honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) Queen and Worker Larvae Caste Determination (2011) – 🐝🧬
  9. Proteomic Analysis of Honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) Pupae Head Development (2011) – 🐝🧪
  10. Proteome Comparison of Hypopharyngeal Gland Development Between Italian and Royal Jelly Producing Worker Honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) (2010) – 🐝🍯

Conclusion:

Dr. Desalegn Begna Rundassa is highly deserving of the Research for Best Researcher Award. His innovative research, leadership in policy development, and contributions to livestock and agricultural development in Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa are exemplary. His extensive academic background, coupled with over 30 years of professional experience, positions him as a leader in the field. With a continued focus on fostering international collaborations and public outreach, Dr. Desalegn is poised to make even greater contributions to agricultural research and policy, both in Africa and globally.

 

 

Tianzhang Zhao | Animal Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Tianzhang Zhao |  Animal Nutrition |  Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at  Dali University, China

Tianzhang Zhao is an associate professor at Dali University in Yunnan Province, China, specializing in Animal Nutrition and Feed Science. He earned his Ph.D. in Animal Husbandry from China Agricultural University in 2014. His academic journey includes a visiting scholar tenure at the University of California, San Diego in 2017, and approximately two years of academic exchange experience in South Korea and the Netherlands.

 

Profile:

Educational Background 🎓:

Ph.D. in Animal Nutrition and Feed Science (2011-2014) China Agricultural University M.E. in Animal Nutrition and Feed Science (2004-2007) Inner Mongolia Agricultural University B.E. in Animal Science (2000-2004) Inner Mongolia Agricultural University Visiting Scholar at UCSD Extension (2017) University of California San Diego Visiting Scholar in Animal Nutrition and Resources Management (2008-2010) Kangwon National University, South Korea

Professional Experience :

Associate Professor (2016-Present) Dali University, Department of Agriculture and Biological Sciences. Research Focus: Exploring American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana) Residue as a New Protein Feedstuff Investigating Dengchuan Cattle, a Unique Native Breed of Dairy Cattle in China Technical Services Expert for Ruminants (2014-2016) Inner Mongolia Chia Tai Feed Co., Ltd., Chia Tai Group Responsibilities: Training sales and technical service staff. Providing specialized technical support for key customers. Supporting marketing for large sheep and beef cattle farms

Research Projects 🔬:

Yunnan Fundamental Research Project Study on optimal ratio of American cockroach residue to replace soybean meal in local breed chicken feed and its antimicrobial effects. Yunnan Fundamental Research Project Investigation and exploration of Dengchuan Cattle. Sheep Industry System Research Project of Agriculture Ministry Research on dietary oil sources’ effects on fatty acid and intramuscular fat contents in lamb.

Research Focus in Animal Nutrition:

American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana) Residue as Protein Feedstuff: Objective: Investigate the potential of American cockroach residue to serve as a sustainable and effective protein source in animal feed. Research Highlights: Studying its nutritional profile and benefits. Evaluating its partial replacement for traditional protein sources like soybean meal in poultry diets. Published research indicating positive effects on growth performance and feed efficiency in chickens. Dengchuan Cattle – Native Breed in China: Objective: Explore the unique characteristics and genetic diversity of Dengchuan cattle, an indigenous dairy breed in China. Research Highlights: Analyzing genetic markers and population structure using advanced techniques like single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chips. Investigating breeding and management practices to enhance productivity and conservation of the breed. Assessing the impact of different thawing methods on the quality of frozen semen, crucial for breeding programs. Dietary Oil Sources in Lamb Nutrition: Objective: Examine the impact of various dietary oils on fatty acid composition and growth performance in lambs. Research Highlights: Studying the effects of different oil sources on ruminal digestion and bacterial populations responsible for hydrogenation of unsaturated fatty acids. Evaluating changes in carcass characteristics and meat quality traits in lambs. Vitamin E Supplementation in Sheep: Objective: Assess the benefits of vitamin E supplementation on growth performance and meat quality in Tan sheep. Research Highlights: Analyzing improvements in carcass characteristics and intramuscular fatty acid composition. Publishing findings in reputable agricultural journals, contributing to enhanced nutritional strategies in sheep farming. Clostridium butyricum in Rabbit Nutrition: Objective: Investigate the potential of Clostridium butyricum as a probiotic alternative to antibiotics in rabbit diets. Research Highlights:Evaluating its effects on growth performance and serum biochemical indexes. Supporting the move towards antibiotic-free animal husbandry with effective probiotic solutions. Digesta Passage Kinetics in Dairy Cows: Objective: Compare ruminal and rectal sampling sites for estimating digesta passage kinetics in dairy cows. Research Highlights: Focusing on cows fed corn stalk-based diets. Improving methodologies for assessing digestion and nutrient absorption efficiency.

Publication:
  • The American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) residue could partially replace the dietary puffed soybean meal in the Three-yellow chicken
    • Poultry Science, 2024-06-09
    • Role: Writing – review & editing
    • Contributors: Tianzhang Zhao
  • Analysis of genetic diversity and structure of endangered Dengchuan cattle population using a single-nucleotide polymorphism chip
    • Animal Biotechnology, 2024-05-11
    • Role: Writing – review & editing
    • Contributors: Tianzhang Zhao
  • Effect of dietary oil sources on fatty acid composition of ruminal digesta and populations of special bacteria responsible for hydrogenation of C18 unsaturated fatty acid in the rumen of feedlot finishing lambs
    • Small Ruminant Research, 2016-11-01
    • Role: Writing – review & editing
    • Contributors: Tianzhang Zhao
  • Effect of vitamin E supplementation on growth performance, carcass characteristics and intramuscular fatty acid composition of Longissimus dorsi muscle in Tan sheep
    • Chilean Journal of Agricultural Research, 2013-10-17
    • Role: Writing – review & editing
    • Contributors: Tianzhang Zhao