Kidanemaryam Reta Wagaw

Kidanemaryam Wagaw Reta is an accomplished plant scientist dedicated to advancing sustainable agriculture practices and enhancing crop resilience. He embarked on a journey to contribute to the field of plant sciences from an early age.

Kidanemaryam's academic pursuits began at Haramaya University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree with Great Distinction in Plant Sciences in 2012. Driven by a passion for plant breeding and genetics, he continued his education at Jimma University, obtaining a Master of Science in Plant Breeding in 2018. His master's thesis focused on assessing the heterotic performance and combining ability of Ethiopian elite sorghum lines, laying the foundation for his expertise in developing drought-tolerant crop varieties.

Following his graduate studies, Kidanemaryam worked as a researcher at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research from 2014 to 2021. During this period, he made significant contributions to plant breeding and genetics research, demand-led plant breeding, statistical design, and data analysis using machine learning algorithms. His efforts led to the release of 11 sorghum varieties for commercial production, a testament to his dedication to addressing the needs of farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.

Currently, Kidanemaryam is pursuing his PhD in Plant Metabolomics at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Israel, where he is engaged in a research project under the guidance of renowned professors Aaron Fait and Naftali Lazarovitch. His doctoral research focuses on understanding the integrated metabolic and physiological responses of grapevines to combined abiotic stress, with a particular emphasis on salinity and drought effects. This work aims to provide valuable insights for the development of tailored management protocols and contribute to the enhancement of crop resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

Throughout his career, Kidanemaryam has actively participated in various research projects, collaborating with institutions such as the University of Queensland, Australia, and regional research institutes. His involvement in projects like "Small-scale community biorefining of sorghum for food, sugar, and biomaterials in rain-fed areas of Eastern Africa," "Climate-smart interventions for smallholder farmers in Ethiopia," and "Modernizing Ethiopian Agricultural Research in Crop Improvement" reflects his commitment to addressing global challenges in food security and climate change adaptation.

Kidanemaryam's contributions to the field of plant sciences have been recognized through several awards and recognitions, including a research grant from the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV), a fellowship from the Tamar Golan Africa Center at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, and a Silver Medal award in the 7th Ethiopian Science, Technology and Innovation Award as a team member of the National Sorghum research program.

With a strong publication record in renowned journals, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and a dedication to leveraging interdisciplinary approaches, Kidanemaryam Wagaw Reta continues to make strides in advancing the frontiers of plant metabolomics, breeding, and sustainable agriculture practices.