Research Scientist at Agricultural Research Council, South Africa
Dr. Ahmed Idris Hassen is a Researcher at the Agricultural Research Council, South Africa, and an Adjunct Professor in Applied Microbiology at the University of Venda. He holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Plant Pathology from the University of Pretoria and has extensive expertise in soil microbiology, rhizobium-legume symbiosis, plant-microbe interactions, and biofertilizer development. A C-3 rated scientist by the National Research Foundation (NRF), he has led multiple projects on rhizobial inoculants, drought tolerance, and soil health. With over 1,100 citations and a strong Scopus & Google Scholar presence, his research significantly contributes to sustainable agriculture. 🌱📚✨
Publication Profile
Orcid
Educational Background🎓
Dr. Ahmed Idris Hassen holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Plant Pathology from the University of Pretoria, South Africa (2003-2007), where his research focused on the efficacy of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria for biocontrol and growth promotion in sorghum. He earned his M.Sc. in Applied Microbiology from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia (1998-1999), investigating the microbiological and biochemical aspects of traditional food fermentation. His academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Biology from the University of Asmara, Eritrea (1986-1989), followed by secondary education in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (1982-1985). His expertise spans microbial interactions, soil health, and plant pathology. 🌱🔬📚
Professional Background👨🏫
Dr. Ahmed Idris Hassen is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Venda, South Africa (2023–Present), contributing to research in Plant and Soil Sciences. Since 2009, he has been a Researcher in Applied and Soil Microbiology at the Agricultural Research Council, focusing on plant health and protection. Previously, he held a postdoctoral fellowship (2008-2009) at the University of Pretoria, working on plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). He also served as a Senior Research Assistant (2007-2008) and Lecturer in Microbiology at Haramaya University (1999-2003). His early career included secondary school biology teaching (1990-1997). 🌱🔬📚
Research Focus 🔬
Dr. Ahmed Idris Hassen specializes in Soil Microbiology and Plant-Microbe Interactions, focusing on rhizosphere health and biological nitrogen fixation. His research explores Rhizobium-legume symbiosis 🌱, microbial community diversity 🦠, and biocontrol mechanisms against phytopathogens 🍄. He applies molecular techniques 🧬, including 16S rRNA sequencing, metagenomics, and whole genome analysis for microbial characterization. His work on plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) enhances sustainable agriculture 🌾 through biofertilizers and microbial inoculants. Dr. Hassen also investigates microbial indicators of soil health and antibiosis mechanisms in plant disease control, contributing to eco-friendly agroecosystems 🌍.
Publication Top Notes
Identification of a biomarker for Bacillus thuringiensis strains with high toxicity against Spodoptera frugiperda 🦟🔬
Year: 2024
Symbiotic Performance and Characterization of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan) Rhizobia Occurring in South African Soils
Year: 2022
Efficacy of Peat and Liquid Inoculant Formulations of Bradyrhizobium japonicum Strain WB74 on Growth, Yield and Nitrogen Concentration of Soybean (Glycine max) 🌾🧪
Year: 2021
Conclusion
Dr. Ahmed Idris Hassen is a distinguished researcher in soil microbiology, plant-microbe interactions, and sustainable agriculture, with over 15 years of experience. As a leader in multiple nationally and internationally funded projects, he has made significant contributions to biocontrol, biofertilizers, and rhizobium-legume interactions. Holding a National Research Foundation (NRF) C-3 rating, his research impact extends globally, reflected in his extensive publication record in reputable journals like Microorganisms, Scientific African, and Pest Management Science. With a Google Scholar H-index of 14, i10-index of 19, and 1169 citations (Scopus H-index: 10), his influence in the field is well-established. Additionally, as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Venda, he actively contributes to academia through teaching and mentorship. His innovations, including the development of elite rhizobial inoculants for commercial agriculture, further underscore his impact on scientific and industrial advancements, making him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. 🚀