Mr. Gelana Urgesa Ayana | Agroforestry System award | Best Researcher Award

PhD candidate at Shanghai Ocean University, Ethiopia

Gelana Urgesa Ayana is a dedicated academician from Ethiopia, passionate about education and societal betterment. With a love for football and reading, he balances personal interests with his commitment to knowledge. Currently a PhD candidate at Shanghai Ocean University, Gelana focuses on aquatic disease diagnosis and prevention. His work aims to positively impact the agricultural and veterinary fields, demonstrating his dedication to improving the future for his community and beyond. Through teaching and research, Gelana fosters an inclusive learning environment, helping students excel while building trust and relationships.

Profile:

• ORCID Profile

Strengths for the Award:

1. Academic Background and Expertise: Gelana holds a PhD candidacy in Aquatic Disease Diagnosis, Prevention, and Control, complemented by an MSc in Fishery Development. This strong academic foundation demonstrates a deep understanding of his field.
2. Research Contributions: He has authored and co-authored several significant journal articles, including investigations into the bactericidal activity of compounds against pathogens and the role of probiotics in sustainable poultry production. His diverse research topics reflect both breadth and depth of knowledge.
3. Community Engagement: Gelana has actively participated in community service initiatives, training programs, and vaccination campaigns, indicating a commitment to applying his research for societal benefit.
4. Continuous Professional Development: He has pursued various training and workshops, enhancing his skills in microbiology, disease management, and academic pedagogy. This commitment to lifelong learning is crucial for a researcher.
5. Collaborative Skills: His experience in collaborative research projects highlights his ability to work well in teams and contribute to collective goals, which is essential in the research community.
6. Multilingual Proficiency: His proficiency in multiple languages, including English, Afan-Oromo, and Amharic, facilitates communication and collaboration in diverse settings, broadening his research impact.

Areas for Improvement:

1. Broader Research Networking: While he has a solid foundation, expanding his research network internationally could lead to more collaborative opportunities and increased visibility in the global research community.
2. Funding Applications: Engaging more actively in grant writing and funding applications could provide the resources necessary to support larger research initiatives and enhance his project scope.
3. Publishing Frequency: Increasing the frequency of publications and exploring high-impact journals could further elevate his research profile and impact.
4. Public Speaking and Presentation Skills: Developing these skills could enhance his ability to communicate research findings effectively at conferences and workshops, thereby increasing his influence and visibility.

Education:

Gelana holds a BSc in Veterinary Laboratory Technology from Wollega University, where he explored parasitic disease diagnosis. He then earned an MSc in Fishery Development from Nanjing Agricultural University, focusing on aquatic disease management with a thesis on the bactericidal activity of emodin. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD at Shanghai Ocean University, concentrating on aquatic disease diagnosis, prevention, and control. His education has equipped him with the knowledge and skills to address critical challenges in veterinary medicine and sustainable aquaculture, preparing him for impactful research and teaching roles.

Experience:

Since September 2017, Gelana has served as the Chief Laboratory Assistant at Jimma University’s College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine. His responsibilities include lecturing BSc students, conducting practical laboratory sessions, and assisting MSc and PhD students in microbiology. Gelana actively engages in research collaborations with faculty, focusing on animal disease diagnosis and data analysis. He is also dedicated to community service, providing training and support to improve local veterinary practices. His diverse experiences in teaching, research, and community involvement reflect his commitment to advancing knowledge and practice in agriculture and veterinary medicine.

Research Focus:

Gelana’s research focuses on aquatic disease diagnosis, prevention, and control, particularly within the fields of veterinary science and aquaculture. His current work includes investigating the bactericidal effects of natural compounds on pathogenic bacteria, contributing to sustainable disease management strategies. Through collaborative projects, he aims to develop effective interventions to enhance animal health and production. His recent studies on probiotics in poultry production and biosecurity reflect his commitment to integrating innovative approaches into veterinary practice. Gelana’s research is poised to make a significant impact on food security and public health in Ethiopia and beyond.

Publications Top Notes:

• Effect of Rice–Carp Coculture on Phytoplankton and Microzooplankton Community Composition in Paddy Water during Different Rice Growth Stages 🌾🐟
• Probiotics in Disease Management for Sustainable Poultry Production 🐔🔬
• Natural Sunlight-Mediated Emodin Photoinactivation of Aeromonas hydrophila 💡🔬
• Probiotics in Disease Management for Sustainable Poultry Production 📄🐔
• Bacteriological Identification among Patients Attending at Jimma University Veterinary Clinic 🧪🐾

Conclusion:

Gelana Urgesa Ayana exemplifies the qualities of an exemplary researcher through his strong academic background, substantial contributions to the field of aquatic disease management, and dedication to community service. His ongoing commitment to professional development and collaboration positions him well for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Addressing identified areas for improvement could further enhance his research profile and broaden his impact in the academic community.