Associate Professor Dr. Girmaye Kenasa Rundasa holds a PhD in Applied Microbiology (Bacteriology) from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia, completed in 2017. His doctoral research focused on microbial diversity and their applications, reflecting his strong foundation in applied biological sciences. He also earned his MSc in Applied Microbiology from Addis Ababa University in 2009, further enhancing his expertise in microbial biotechnology and research methodologies. Prior to that, he completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Educational Planning and Administration at Bahir Dar University in 2005, equipping him with essential leadership and academic management skills. His academic journey began with a BSc in Biology from Haramaya University, awarded in 2002, where he developed a strong interest in microbiology and applied sciences. This diverse and well-rounded educational background has enabled Dr. Girmaye to excel as a researcher, educator, and academic leader, fostering interdisciplinary research and contributing significantly to Ethiopia’s scientific and educational advancement.

Professional Experience

Associate Professor Dr. Girmaye Kenasa Rundasa has built an extensive professional career in research, teaching, and academic leadership. Currently serving as Research Director at Wollega University, he oversees the university’s research strategy, fosters innovation, and manages grant-funded projects. Prior to this, he served as Associate Dean for Research and Postgraduate Studies, where he strengthened postgraduate programs and research output. Dr. Girmaye also held the position of Director for the Center for Energy and Environment Research, promoting applied research in sustainable development. His earlier roles include Head of the Biology Department, demonstrating leadership across administrative, research, and academic functions. With over 20 years of experience, he has led multidisciplinary research projects, contributed to community service initiatives, and played a pivotal role in establishing molecular diagnostic labs. In addition to administrative roles, Dr. Girmaye teaches advanced courses in microbiology and biotechnology, shaping future scientists while actively contributing to Ethiopia’s research ecosystem.

Research Interest

Associate Professor Dr. Girmaye Kenasa Rundasa’s research interests lie at the intersection of applied microbiology, biotechnology, natural product research, and environmental science. His primary focus is exploring microbial diversity and their applications in health, agriculture, and industry. He is particularly interested in the discovery and characterization of bioactive compounds from microorganisms and medicinal plants, with an emphasis on antimicrobial and antioxidant properties to combat drug-resistant pathogens. Dr. Girmaye is also passionate about green synthesis of nanoparticles using natural extracts and evaluating their potential in medicine and environmental remediation. Additionally, his work extends into waste management technologies, including biogas production from organic waste, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable solutions. His interdisciplinary research approach integrates molecular biology, genomics, and bioinformatics to understand microbial functions and enhance their industrial and environmental applications. Through this diverse research portfolio, Dr. Girmaye aims to contribute to scientific innovation and address societal challenges.

Awards and Honors

Associate Professor Dr. Girmaye Kenasa Rundasa has received several awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to research, academic leadership, and scientific innovation. Notably, in 2023, he ranked 1st in the Applied Research Grand Project competition at FH Münster University of Applied Sciences in Germany, demonstrating his excellence in grant writing and project development. His research leadership at Wollega University has also earned him institutional recognition for securing significant research grants and driving impactful projects in microbiology, biotechnology, and environmental sciences. Dr. Girmaye’s role in establishing a molecular laboratory for COVID-19 diagnosis during the pandemic was highly commended, highlighting his ability to apply scientific knowledge to urgent public health challenges. Through his numerous peer-reviewed publications, successful grant acquisitions, and dedication to mentoring young researchers, Dr. Girmaye has earned respect within Ethiopia’s scientific community and among international collaborators, solidifying his reputation as a leading researcher and academic mentor.

Research Skills

Associate Professor Dr. Girmaye Kenasa Rundasa possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills that spans applied microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, and environmental science. He is highly skilled in DNA extraction, PCR amplification, sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis, enabling him to study microbial diversity, gene expression, and functional genomics. His expertise also extends to the green synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles, particularly exploring their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and photocatalytic properties. Dr. Girmaye has demonstrated strong research design, grant writing, and project management abilities, securing competitive funding for both applied and basic research. His analytical skills include working with various software for molecular data analysis, statistical tools, and scientific modeling. In addition, his collaborative approach enhances his ability to lead multidisciplinary research teams and mentor emerging researchers. These well-rounded research skills, combined with his practical experience, enable Dr. Girmaye to contribute to innovative scientific solutions and address real-world challenges.

Conclusion

Dr. Girmaye Kenasa Rundasa’s qualifications, research productivity, leadership roles, and community impact make him a highly suitable candidate for the Excellence in Applied Sciences Award. His ability to translate scientific research into practical applications that benefit both the academic community and society at large is a hallmark of excellence in applied sciences. With minor enhancements in global collaboration, commercialization, and structured mentorship programs, he could further elevate his profile as a leading applied scientist in Ethiopia and the region.

Publications Top Noted

• Kenasa, G., Jida, M., & Assefa, F. (2014)
  Characterization of phosphate solubilizing faba bean (Vicia faba L.) nodulating rhizobia isolated from acidic soils of Wollega, Ethiopia.
  Science, Technology and Arts Research Journal, 3(3), 11-17.
  Citations: 38

• Shumi, G., Demissie, T. B., Eswaramoorthy, R., Bogale, R. F., Kenasa, G., & Desalegn, T. (2023)
  Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles functionalized with histidine and phenylalanine amino acids for potential antioxidant and antibacterial activities.
  ACS Omega, 8(27), 24371-24386.
  Citations: 27

• Kenasa, G., & Kena, E. (2019)
  Optimization of biogas production from avocado fruit peel wastes co-digestion with animal manure collected from juice vending house in Gimbi Town, Ethiopia.
  Fermentation Technology, 8(1), 1-6.
  Citations: 26

• Takele, E., Bogale, R. F., Shumi, G., & Kenasa, G. (2023)
  Green synthesis, characterization, and antibacterial activity of CuO/ZnO nanocomposite using Zingiber officinale rhizome extract.
  Journal of Chemistry, 2023(1), 3481389.
  Citations: 23

• Garoma, B., Kenasa, G., & Jida, M. (2018)
  Drinking water quality test of Shambu town (Ethiopia) from source to household taps using some physico-chemical and biological parameters.
  Research & Reviews: Journal of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, 6(4), 82-88.
  Citations: 22

• Ayele, T. T., Gurmessa, G. T., Abdissa, Z., Kenasa, G., & Abdissa, N. (2022)
  Oleanane and stigmasterol-type triterpenoid derivatives from the stem bark of Albizia gummifera and their antibacterial activities.
  Journal of Chemistry, 2022(1), 9003143.
  Citations: 16

• Kenasa, G., Assefa, F., & Habteselassie, M. Y. (2018)
  Phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of cowpea rhizobia from soils of Ethiopia.
  African Journal of Biotechnology, 17(42), 1299-1312.
  Citations: 13

• Assefa, E. T., Shumi, G., Gendo, K. M., Kenasa, G., & Roba, N. (2024)
  Review on green synthesis, characterization, and antibacterial activity of CuO nanoparticles using biomolecules of plant extract.
  Results in Chemistry, 8, 101606.
  Citations: 7

• Shumi, G., Demissie, T. B., Koobotse, M., Kenasa, G., Beas, I. N., Zachariah, M., & Desalegn, T. (2024)
  Cytotoxic Cu (II) complexes with a novel quinoline derivative ligand: synthesis, molecular docking, and biological activity analysis.
  ACS Omega, 9(23), 25014-25026.
  Citations: 5

• Dejene, A., Bogale, R. F., Yadeta, L., Gendo, K. M., Kenasa, G., & Berhanu, A. L. (2024)
  Biogenic synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles using Clausena anisata leaf and Euphorbia abyssinica bark extracts and its comparative study of antibacterial activities.
  Results in Chemistry, 8, 101569.
  Citations: 4