Keabetswe Ncube | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Keabetswe Ncube | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Post Doctoral Researcher at Tshwane University of Technology, South Africa

Dr. Keabetswe Ncube is a distinguished geneticist and postdoctoral research fellow at Tshwane University of Technology, specializing in goat genomics, transcriptomics, and livestock improvement. She holds a PhD in Genetics from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and has made significant contributions to animal genetics through her research on growth performance, meat science, and genomic selection. Her work has been recognized with numerous grants, scholarships, and awards, including the Junior Chamber International Top Young Persons Award and the Inspiring50 South Africa recognition. Dr. Ncube has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and presented at international conferences, demonstrating her expertise in bioinformatics, next-generation sequencing, and livestock breeding. With extensive research and teaching experience, she has also mentored postgraduate students and collaborated on international projects. Passionate about advancing agricultural genomics, she actively engages in community-based breeding programs and science outreach initiatives, making her a leading figure in animal genetics and biotechnology.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Keabetswe Ncube has a strong academic background in genetics and biotechnology. She earned her PhD in Genetics from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in 2020, focusing on gene expression profiling of South African indigenous goat breeds to identify genes associated with growth and meat quality traits. Prior to that, she completed her MSc in Life Sciences at the University of South Africa in 2016, where she researched the maternal lineages and genetic diversity of the growth hormone gene in South African goat populations. Her undergraduate studies were at Tshwane University of Technology, where she obtained a Bachelor of Technology in Biotechnology in 2012 and a National Diploma in Biotechnology in 2011. Her academic journey has equipped her with expertise in genomics, transcriptomics, bioinformatics, and molecular genetics, laying the foundation for her impactful research in livestock genetics and animal science.

Professional Experience

Dr. Keabetswe Ncube has extensive professional experience in animal genetics, biotechnology, and research development. Currently a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Tshwane University of Technology, she focuses on livestock genomics and breeding strategies. She has previously worked as a Genomics Specialist at Inqaba Biotechnical (ZooOmics), where she applied advanced molecular techniques to animal genetic research. She also served as an Associate Medical Writer at Nucleus Global in the UK. Her earlier experience includes roles at the Agricultural Research Council, where she contributed to genome-wide studies, RNA sequencing, and livestock breeding programs. Dr. Ncube has also been actively involved in community-based breeding programs, assisting farmers in genetic selection and livestock improvement. Additionally, she has worked as a laboratory assistant in microbiology and quality control roles at Mageu Number 1 and Tshwane University of Technology. Her diverse professional background highlights her expertise in research, academia, industry applications, and science communication.

Research Interest

Dr. Keabetswe Ncube’s research interests focus on animal genetics, genomics, and livestock improvement, with a particular emphasis on indigenous South African goat breeds. Her work explores transcriptomics, functional genomics, and population genetics to enhance meat quality, growth performance, and overall livestock productivity. She specializes in next-generation sequencing, genome-wide association studies, and RNA sequencing to identify genetic markers linked to economically important traits. Dr. Ncube is also passionate about applying genomic tools to improve animal breeding programs, particularly in community-based settings. Her research extends to meat genomics, carcass quality, and the genetic factors influencing livestock adaptation to environmental stress. Additionally, she is involved in investigating the medicinal properties of goat milk and its potential applications in health and cosmetics. Through her work, she aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical agricultural advancements, ultimately contributing to sustainable livestock farming and food security in Africa.

Award and Honor

Dr. Keabetswe Ncube has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of her contributions to genetics and animal science research. She was a recipient of the Gauteng Department of Rural Development Grant in 2011 and secured multiple scholarships, including the National Research Foundation Innovation Masters’ Scholarship (2013-2014) and the Agricultural Research Council Professional Development Doctoral Grant (2017-2020). Her academic excellence earned her the Junior Chamber International Top Young Persons of the Year Award in 2017 and the 1st Prize for Best PhD Scientific Poster at the ARC Professional Development Programme in 2018. She was named among the Inspiring50 South Africa in 2021 and recognized as one of the Sunday World Heroic Women in 2022. Further solidifying her impact in STEM, she was honored as one of the “10 Most Inspiring and Impactful STEM Women World Changers” in 2023, reflecting her dedication to advancing science and mentorship.

Research Skill

Dr. Keabetswe Ncube possesses a diverse range of advanced research skills in genetics, bioinformatics, and animal science. She is proficient in statistical bioinformatics data analysis using tools such as SAS and R, as well as specialized genomics software like BEAGLE, AMOVA, and Arlequin. Her expertise includes next-generation sequencing, RNA isolation, transcriptional profiling, Sanger sequencing, and Illumina Infinium SNP chip genotyping. She has extensive experience in functional and population genomics, primer design, rolling circle amplification, and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for livestock improvement. Additionally, she has conducted field sampling, blood collection, and genetic diversity analyses. Beyond laboratory work, she has applied her research skills in community-based breeding programs and livestock growth performance monitoring. With her strong communication abilities and experience in lecturing advanced animal breeding and genetics, she seamlessly integrates research with education, contributing to the development of future scientists while advancing genetic research in livestock production.

Conclusion

Dr. Keabetswe Ncube demonstrates outstanding research excellence, with a strong record in genetics, publications, and awards. Her impact extends beyond academia into community engagement and policy influence. To further strengthen her candidacy, expanding interdisciplinary collaborations, securing leadership roles in global organizations, and increasing industry contributions would elevate her profile.

Publications Top Noted

  • Carcass quality profiles and associated genomic regions of South African goat populations investigated using goat SNP50K genotypes – KT Ncube, EF Dzomba, K Hadebe, P Soma, L Frylinck, FC Muchadeyi (2022) Cited by: 12
  • Goat farmers’ production objectives and trait preferences in the North West province of South Africa: An approach to identify selection criteria for a community-based breeding program – TF Mtshali, ON Mapholi, KT Ncube, EF Dzomba, TC Matelele, TC Chokoe, et al. (2021) Cited by: 9
  • Relationship between population genomic structure and growth profiles of South African goats under different production systems – KT Ncube, K Hadebe, EF Dzomba, P Soma, L Frylinck, FC Muchadeyi (2020) Cited by: 8
  • Targeted high‐throughput growth hormone 1 gene sequencing reveals high within‐breed genetic diversity in South African goats – KT Ncube, K Mdladla, EF Dzomba, FC Muchadeyi (2016) Cited by: 8
  • Differential gene expression and identification of growth-related genes in the pituitary gland of South African goats – KT Ncube, EF Dzomba, BD Rosen, SG Schroeder, CP Van Tassell, et al. (2022) Cited by: 7
  • Polymorphism of the major histocompatibility complex and genetic structure of Southern African village chicken populations – KT Ncube, PJ Jooste, P Soma, EF Dzomba, FC Muchadeyi (2014) Cited by: 7
  • Genomics for the improvement of productivity and robustness of South African goat breeds – EF Dzomba, K Mdladla, KT Ncube, FC Muchadeyi (2017) Cited by: 5
  • Gene Expression Profiling of South African Indigenous Goat Breeds Using RNA-Seq Technologies in Search of Genes Associated with Growth and Carcass Quality Traits – KT Ncube (2020) Cited by: 3
  • Maternal lineages and diversity of the growth hormone gene of South African goat populations – KT Ncube (2016) Cited by: 2
  • Genomic Advancements in Assessing Growth Performance, Meat Quality, and Carcass Characteristics of Goats in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review – KT Ncube, KA Nephawe, TJ Mpofu, NJ Monareng, MM Mofokeng, et al. (2025) Cited by: N/A
  • Genomic Tools for Medicinal Properties of Goat Milk for Cosmetic and Health Benefits: A Narrative Review – KT Ncube, MC Modiba, TJ Mpofu, KA Nephawe, B Mtileni (2025) Cited by: N/A

 

Volodymyr Nadykto | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Dmytro Motornyi Tavria State Agrotechnological University, Ukraine

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto is a distinguished researcher and professor at Dmytro Motornyi Tavria State Agrotechnological University, Ukraine, specializing in the mechanization of agricultural production. With over four decades of academic and research experience, he has significantly contributed to the development of modular tractors, machine-tractor units, and controlled traffic farming. He has held key leadership positions, including Vice-Rector of Science and Head of Department, and is an active member of the Ukrainian Academy of Agrarian Sciences and the Academy of Engineering Sciences of Ukraine. Prof. Nadykto has an extensive publication record, collaborating with international researchers on innovative solutions for improving agricultural machinery efficiency. His research focuses on optimizing traction, reducing soil disturbance, and enhancing mechanized farming practices. While his work has had a profound academic impact, further emphasis on industry applications and mentorship could enhance his contributions. His dedication and expertise make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Education

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto has a strong academic background in agricultural engineering, specializing in the mechanization of agricultural production. He earned his Engineer degree in 1977 from the Dnipropetrovsk Institute of Agriculture. He later pursued a PhD in Engineering from the Moscow Institute of Agricultural Engineers in 1989, focusing on mechanization in agriculture. In 2001, he obtained his Doctor of Science (Dr. Sci.) degree from the Agriculture Institute of Mechanization and Electrification of the Ukrainian Academy of Agrarian Science, further solidifying his expertise in agricultural engineering. Additionally, in 2016, he earned a degree as an Agronomist from Dmytro Motornyi Tavria State Agrotechnological University. His extensive education has provided him with a strong foundation for his research in mechanized farming, controlled traffic farming, and tractor-machine systems. His academic qualifications, combined with decades of research and teaching experience, have made him a leading expert in agricultural mechanization.

Professional Experience

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto has an extensive professional background in agricultural engineering, spanning over four decades. He has been a professor at Dmytro Motornyi Tavria State Agrotechnological University since 2001, where he also served as Vice-Rector of Science from 2006 to 2020. His leadership roles include Head of the Department of Machines Use in Farming (2004–2006) and Head of the Department of Mechanization of Field Crop Cultivation (2000–2002). Prior to that, he was a senior researcher and later Head of the Laboratory of Machine Use at the South Office of the Agriculture Institute of Mechanization and Electrification. His career began as a senior engineer at the Ukrainian Scientific Research Institute of Mechanization and Electrification of Agriculture. Throughout his career, Prof. Nadykto has contributed significantly to the development of agricultural mechanization, specializing in modular tractors, controlled traffic farming, and machine-tractor systems, making him a key figure in the field.

Research Interest

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto’s research interests focus on advancing agricultural mechanization, particularly in modular tractors, machine-tractor units, and controlled traffic farming. His work aims to enhance the efficiency, stability, and sustainability of mechanized farming operations by optimizing traction performance, reducing soil compaction, and improving the controllability of agricultural machinery. He has extensively studied the development of combination machine-tractor units, the impact of machine configurations on soil conditions, and innovative approaches to increase the traction efficiency of modular draft devices. His research also explores mathematical modeling and experimental investigations to improve the stability and maneuverability of machine-tractor systems. By integrating engineering principles with practical agricultural applications, Prof. Nadykto contributes to the development of more effective and environmentally friendly mechanized farming practices. His dedication to advancing agricultural engineering ensures that his research remains relevant to both academia and industry, addressing the evolving challenges of modern agriculture.

Award and Honor

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto has received numerous honors and recognitions for his outstanding contributions to agricultural engineering and mechanization. He is a Corresponding Member of the Ukrainian Academy of Agrarian Sciences (since 2010) and an Active Member of the Academy of Engineering Sciences of Ukraine (since 2008). His election to these prestigious institutions highlights his significant impact on the advancement of mechanized farming and agricultural machinery. Additionally, he has held key academic leadership roles, such as Vice-Rector of Science at Dmytro Motornyi Tavria State Agrotechnological University, further demonstrating his influence in the academic and research community. His extensive research publications and collaborations with international scientists reflect his commitment to innovation in agricultural mechanization. While specific awards are not listed in his curriculum vitae, his professional affiliations and long-standing contributions to the field solidify his reputation as a leading researcher, making him a strong contender for prestigious research awards.

Research Skill

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto possesses exceptional research skills in agricultural mechanization, with expertise in modular tractors, machine-tractor units, and controlled traffic farming. His ability to develop and apply mathematical models for optimizing tractor performance and soil interaction demonstrates his strong analytical and problem-solving skills. He is proficient in experimental research, conducting field investigations to assess traction efficiency, movement stability, and the impact of mechanization on soil conditions. His extensive publication record highlights his ability to collaborate with international researchers, showcasing his expertise in scientific writing, data analysis, and engineering simulations. Additionally, his experience in leading research teams and supervising scientific projects reflects his leadership and project management skills. Prof. Nadykto integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, contributing to the advancement of sustainable and efficient mechanized farming. His research skills, combined with his vast academic experience, make him a distinguished expert in the field of agricultural engineering.

Conclusion

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto is a highly accomplished researcher with a strong publication record, extensive academic experience, and significant contributions to agricultural mechanization. His international collaborations, leadership roles, and research impact make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Addressing the areas for improvement, particularly in demonstrating broader research impact and industry applications, would further strengthen his candidacy.

Publications Top Noted

  • Nadykto, V. T., & Kryzhachkivskyi, M. L. (2005). Novі mobil’nі energetichnі zasobi Ukrainy. Teoretychni osnovy vykorystannia v zemlerobstvi.
  • Nadykto, V. T. (2003). Osnovy agregatyrovaniya modulekh energetycheskikh sredstv. Melitopol: KP “MMD”.
  • Nadykto, V. T., & Uleksin, V. O. (2008). Kolіina ta mostova systemy zemlerobstva. Melitopol: TOV «Vydavnychyi budynok MMD».
  • Bulgakov, V., Pascuzzi, S., Nadykto, V., & Ivanovs, S. (2018). A mathematical model of the plane-parallel movement of an asymmetric machine-and-tractor aggregate. Agriculture, 8(10), 151.
  • Nadykto, V., Arak, M., & Olt, J. (2015). Theoretical research into the frictional slipping of wheel-type undercarriage taking into account the limitation of their impact on the soil. Agronomy Research, 13(1), 148-157.
  • Bulgakov, V., Adamchuk, V., Nadykto, V., Kistechok, O., & Olt, J. (2017). Theoretical research into the stability of motion of the ploughing tractor-implement unit operating on the ‘push-pull’ principle.
  • Bulgakov, V., Pascuzzi, S., Ivanovs, S., Nadykto, V., & Nowak, J. (2020). Kinematic discrepancy between driving wheels evaluated for a modular traction device. Biosystems Engineering, 196, 88-96.
  • Nadykto, V. T. (2017). Osnovy naukovykh doslidzhen. Kherson: OLDI-PLUS.
  • Bulgakov, V. M., Kravchuk, V. I., & Nadykto, V. T. (2008). Agregatuvannia pluhiv.
  • Adamchuk, V., Bulgakov, V., Nadykto, V., Ihnatiev, Y., & Olt, J. (2016). Theoretical research into the power and energy performance of agricultural tractors. Agronomy Research, 14(5).
  • Kyurchev, V. M., Kyurchev, V. N., Boltianska, N. I., & Boltianska, N. I. (2020). Organizational forms of distance learning and their application in TDATU. TDATU.
  • Bulgakov, V., Adamchuk, V., Nadykto, V., & Kyurchev, V. (2017). Theoretical consideration of the controllability indicator of machine-tractor unit movement. Acta Technologica Agriculturae, 11-18.
  • Bulgakov, V., Adamchuk, V., Arak, M., Nadykto, V., Kyurchev, V., & Olt, J. (2016). Theory of vertical oscillations and dynamic stability of combined tractor-implement unit. Agronomy Research, 689-710.

Gloria Edith Guerrero Alvarez | Ciencias Agrarias | Leading Innovations in Science Award

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🌟Dr. Gloria Edith Guerrero Alvarez, Guerrero Alvarez, Colombia: Organic Chemistry🏆

Dr. Gloria Edith Guerrero Alvarez is a highly accomplished researcher and academic with expertise in the field of Chemistry. She earned her Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences from Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogota, in January 1993. Her doctoral research focused on the study of secondary metabolites of the Volombia variety and other related coffee genotypes.

Professional Profiles:
Summary:

Throughout her career, Dr. Guerrero Alvarez has been actively engaged in various research areas, showcasing a versatile range of interests. Her work includes the exploration of coffee metabolites, utilization of sericulture by-products, characterization of vegetable oils, biodiesel production, and the study of bioactive compounds in annonaceas.

The research conducted by Gloria Edith Guerrero Alvarez and Nathalia Cardona Hurtado focuses on understanding the defense mechanisms of Rubus glaucus Benth (blackberry) against Peronospora sparsa, a fungus causing downy mildew disease in blackberry crops in Colombia. The study aims to identify the taxonomic identity of the pathogen, evaluate antioxidant capacity and total phenol content, and identify secondary metabolites associated with the plant’s response to biotic stress.

Methods and Results:

Taxonomic Identification:

  • The fungus causing the disease in blackberry crops was identified as Peronospora sparsa through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification.

Antioxidant Capacity and Total Phenol Content:

  • Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP methods.
  • In affected blackberry fruits, a significant increase in antioxidant capacity was observed compared to healthy fruits.
  • Antioxidant capacity values ranged between 53.975 ± 1.312 and 74.758 ± 0.058 µmol TE g − 1 (DPPH method), 15.626 ± 0.838 and 19.116 ± 0.086 µmol TE g − 1 (ABTS method), and 61.050 ± 1.274 and 124.271 ± 1.148 mmol Trolox g − 1 (FRAP method).
  • Healthy fruits exhibited lower antioxidant capacity values.

Phenolic Compounds:

  • Total phenol content was analyzed using the Folin-Ciocalteu method.
  • The phenolic content in affected fruits ranged from 8.322 ± 0.879 to 13.372 ± 0.18 mg g − 1, while healthy fruits showed lower concentrations (7.88 ± 0.172 to 10.519 ± 0.071 mg g − 1).
  • Phenolic compounds tentatively identified include derivatives of phenolic acids (e.g., ellagic acid, gallic acid), tannins, and flavonoids.

Phytosterol Analysis:

  • GC–MS analysis was conducted for the identification of phytosterols.
  • Higher concentrations of β-sitosterol and campesterol were identified in affected fruits.

Conclusion: The study concludes that the increase in certain secondary metabolites, including antioxidants and phenolic compounds, in blackberry fruits is a defense mechanism against the pathogen Peronospora sparsa. The findings contribute to understanding the plant-pathogen interaction, highlighting the need for further investigation into other types of metabolites associated with this interaction.

Education:
  • Completed a Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences at Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogota.
  • Thesis Title: “Estudio de algunos metabolitos secundarios de la variedad Volombia y otros genotipos relacionados de cafe” (Study of some secondary metabolites of the Volombia variety and other related coffee genotypes).
Research Focus:

Based on the provided information, Dr. Gloria Edith Guerrero Alvarez has been involved in a diverse range of research activities. While the specific focus areas may vary over time, her research interests cover various aspects of chemistry, agriculture, and biochemistry. Here are some of the research focus areas:

  • Coffee Metabolites
  • Utilization of Sericulture By-Products
  • Vegetable Oils
  • Biodiesel Production
  • Acetogenins of Annonaceas
  • Diterpenes in Coffee
  • Palm Oil Lipogenesis
  • Genetic Improvement of Coffee
  • Oleochemistry
  • Protein Recovery from Silk
  • Bioactive Compounds in Annonaceas
Academic Background:

Thank you for providing additional details about Dr. Gloria Edith Guerrero Alvarez’s academic background. Here’s a more detailed entry for her Doctorado en Ciencias Quimicas:

Doctorado en Ciencias Quimicas (Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences)

University: Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogota

Year: January 1993

Thesis Title: “Estudio de algunos metabolitos secundarios de la variedad Volombia y otros genotipos relacionados de cafe” (Study of some secondary metabolites of the Volombia variety and other related coffee genotypes).

This research focused on the exploration of secondary metabolites in the Volombia variety of coffee and other related genotypes. The study likely delved into the chemical composition and characteristics of these metabolites, contributing to the broader understanding of coffee chemistry and potentially its implications for flavor, aroma, or other qualities in coffee beans.

Professional Experience:

Thank you for providing additional details on Dr. Gloria Edith Guerrero Alvarez’s professional experience at Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira. Here is a more detailed entry for her tenure at the university:

Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira

Position: Assistant Professor (Dedicated 40 hours weekly)

Duration: Since June 2002

Activities of Administration:

Member of the center council (July 2003)

Teaching Activities:

Undergraduate courses in Organic Chemistry I, Inorganic Chemistry, and coordination of thesis work (June 2002)

Research and Development Activities:

  • Study of silkworm oil (Enero)
  • Characterization of vegetable oils (Enero)
  • Utilization of by-products of sericulture (Enero)
  • Study of oil from the chrysalis of the silkworm Bombix mori Linn (Enero)
  • Study of bioactive compounds in annonaceas (Enero 2005)
  • Characterization and utilization of vegetable oils (Enero 2004)
  • Characterization and utilization of sericin from different sources of the sericultural industry (Enero 2004)
  • Utilization of the chrysalis or pupa of the silkworm (Bombix mori Lin) for obtaining oil and derivatives (Enero 200)

This entry outlines her teaching responsibilities, administrative role, and diverse research and development activities, emphasizing her contributions to the study of silkworm oil, characterization of vegetable oils, and the utilization of by-products in the sericulture industry.

Publications Top Noted & Contributions:

Title: The importance of protesters’ morals: Moral obligation as a key variable to understand collective action

  • Authors: JM Sabucedo, M Dono, M Alzate, G Seoane
  • Journal: Frontiers in Psychology
  • Volume: 9
  • Page: 418
  • Citations: 111
  • Year: 2018

Title: Chlorogenic acids as a potential criterion in coffee genotype selections

  • Authors: G Guerrero, M Suárez, G Moreno
  • Journal: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry
  • Volume: 49 (5)
  • Pages: 2454-2458
  • Citations: 48
  • Year: 2001

Title: Actividad antibacteriana de la cáscara de cacao, Theobroma cacao L

  • Authors: O Cuéllar, G Guerrero
  • Journal: Revista MVZ Córdoba
  • Volume: 17 (3)
  • Pages: 3176-3183
  • Citations: 33
  • Year: 2012

Title: Political protest in times of crisis. Construction of new frames of diagnosis and emotional climate

  • Authors: JM Sabucedo, I Barreto, G Seoane, M Alzate, C Gómez-Román, X Vilas
  • Journal: Frontiers in Psychology
  • Volume: 8
  • Page: 1568
  • Citations: 24
  • Year: 2017

Title: Implementación de un método de extracción de pectina obtenida del subproducto agroindustrial cascarilla de cacao

  • Authors: G Guerrero, D Suárez, D Orozco
  • Journal: Temas Agrarios
  • Volume: 22 (1)
  • Pages: 85-90

Author Metrics:

  • Citations: 42 citations by 39 documents.
  • Documents: 20 publications.
  • H-Index: 4
  • oduct, cocoa husk (cascarilla de cacao). It may detail the process and potential applications of extracted pectin.