Aggrey Osogo | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Best Research Article Award

Mr. Aggrey Osogo | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Best Research Article Award

Mr. AGGREY OSOGO,  KIBABII UNIVERSITY, Kenya.

Aggrey Keya Osogo is a Kenyan plant virologist and Principal Technologist with a robust academic and professional background in plant pathology and crop protection. Beginning his academic journey in Vihiga County, he progressively advanced through diploma, higher diploma, and bachelor’s programs before earning a Master of Science in Crop Protection from MMUST. He is currently finalizing his Ph.D. research focused on the molecular characterization of common bean viruses using advanced ‘omics’ technologies.

Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Aggrey Keya Osogo began his academic journey with a strong foundational education in Vihiga County, Kenya. He completed his primary education at Kaptik Primary School (1978–1985) before proceeding to Mbale High School, where he obtained a Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) in 1989 with a commendable C+ grade. Driven by a passion for biology and plants, he pursued further studies in applied sciences, completing a Diploma in Applied Biology at Kenya Polytechnic in 1993 and later enhancing his credentials with a Higher Diploma in Applied Biology at Eldoret Polytechnic in 2002. His early academic journey laid a firm groundwork for his future specialization in plant pathology and virology.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Mr. Osogo’s professional path is marked by consistent growth and commitment to laboratory sciences and academic instruction. Starting his career as a Laboratory Technologist in the Botany Department of Moi University in 1997, he gained vital hands-on experience in biological sciences. Over the years, he advanced to roles of increased responsibility, serving as a Senior Laboratory Technologist at Egerton University and later at MMUST. Since 2015, he has held the position of Chief Technologist at Kibabii University, where he also serves as a part-time lecturer. His teaching portfolio spans a range of botany-focused courses including plant taxonomy, microbiology, plant pathology, and botanical techniques, showcasing his expertise and devotion to nurturing future scientists.

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus

A dedicated researcher in plant pathology, Mr. Osogo’s scientific focus lies in virology, with significant work on crop protection and virus identification in staple crops. He holds a Master of Science in Crop Protection from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), where he researched the occurrence, distribution, and virulence of cassava brown streak viruses. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at MMUST, his thesis emphasizes the molecular characterization of common bean viruses using cutting-edge ‘omics’ and high-throughput technologies. His research is crucial for developing disease-resistant crop varieties and ensuring food security for smallholder farmers in Western Kenya.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Although modest in public acclaim, Mr. Osogo’s career reflects quiet excellence and dedication to academic and research excellence. His steady rise from a laboratory technologist to a chief technologist and respected lecturer in Kenyan universities is a testament to his competence, perseverance, and deep-rooted passion for plant virology. His teaching engagements at both MMUST and Kibabii University have earned him respect among colleagues and students alike, establishing him as a role model in laboratory and field-based scientific instruction.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through his extensive work in teaching, mentoring, and virological research, Mr. Osogo has had a lasting impact on Kenya’s academic and agricultural landscape. By identifying and understanding viral threats in major crops such as cassava and beans, he contributes directly to sustainable agriculture and improved yields for smallholder farmers. His influence extends beyond the classroom, as his research plays a crucial role in guiding disease management policies and enhancing diagnostic capacities in the region.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Mr. Osogo aspires to become a lead scientist in plant virology, a goal well within reach given his ongoing contributions and academic progression. His legacy will be one of mentorship, scientific rigor, and a tireless quest to protect crops from viral diseases. As he nears completion of his Ph.D., he is positioned to take on greater roles in regional and international research collaborations, policy formulation, and capacity building in crop protection science.

🔬 Passion for Plant Science

Outside his formal roles, Mr. Osogo maintains a personal passion for botanizing, reflecting a deep, intrinsic love for plant life and exploration. This hobby not only complements his profession but also fuels his innovative thinking and observational skills in research. His ability to blend curiosity with scientific methodology makes him a standout figure in Kenya’s plant pathology field.

Publication

Title: Biodegradation of carbofuran in soils within Nzoia River Basin, Kenya
Authors: DO Onunga, IO Kowino, AN Ngigi, A Osogo, F Orata, ZM Getenga, …
Year: 2015


Title: Antimicrobial Coumarins from the Oyster Culinary-Medicinal Mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus (Agaricomycetes), from Kenya
Authors: et al. Lilechi
Year: 2016


Title: Occurrence and distribution of begomoviruses infecting cassava in Western Kenya
Authors: MN Were, B Mukoye, AK Osogo, BC Mangeni, PAA Nyamwamu, …
Year: 2016


Title: Occurrence and distribution of cassava brown streak viruses in Western Kenya
Authors: AK Osogo, J Muoma, P Nyamwamu, CN Omuse, HK Were
Year: 2014


Title: Mapping of angular leaf spot disease hotspot areas in western Kenya towards its management
Authors: RK Leitich, W Arinaitwe, B Mukoye, DO Omayio, AK Osogo, HK Were, …
Year: 2016


Title: Distribution and biological characterization of potato virus y in Kenya
Authors: N Paul, M Benard, A Osogo
Year: 2014


Title: Occurrence, distribution, incidence, and severity of common bean viral diseases in resource-limited smallholder farms of western Kenya
Authors: AK Osogo, F Muyekho, P Okoth, H Were, G Ayaaga
Year: 2025


Title: Deciphering common bean (Phaseolus Vulgaris L.) microbiome assemblages reveal mechanistic insights into host-pathogen-microbiome interactions
Authors: AK Osogo, F Muyekho, H Were, P Okoth
Year: 2025


Title: Comprehensive metabolomic profiling of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) reveals biomarkers involved in viral disease detection and monitoring
Authors: AK Osogo, C Wekesa, FN Muyekho, HK Were, P Okoth
Year: 2025


Title: Genome-Wide Metatranscriptomics Crosswalk of Diseased Common Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L) Unravels Critical Metabolic Pathways Involved in Plant Defense Mechanisms
Authors: AK Osogo, BS Sarkar, FN Muyekho, HK Were, P Okoth
Year: 2025

🏁 Conclusion

Aggrey Keya Osogo’s career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to plant virology and academic excellence. His progression from technologist to researcher and educator reflects both deep scientific commitment and impactful service to the agricultural sector. With a strong foundation, impactful research, and ongoing doctoral work, he is well-poised to become a leading voice in plant pathology not only in Kenya but across the region. His contributions are pivotal in strengthening food security and inspiring the next generation of plant scientists.

Burak Derkus | Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Burak Derkus | Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Burak Derkus, Ankara University, Turkey.

Prof. Burak Derkus has distinguished himself as a pioneering academic and researcher at Ankara University, Turkey, where he has played a vital role in shaping the future of biomedical engineering. His work spans across key disciplines such as biosensors, nanobiotechnology, and lab-on-a-chip technologies. By merging biology with cutting-edge engineering, he has developed innovative solutions aimed at improving diagnostic efficiency and accessibility. His career reflects a balance between scientific discovery, practical application, and educational leadership.

Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

From the heart of Turkey, Prof. Burak Derkus began his journey into the world of science and discovery with an unwavering curiosity and dedication. His early academic path was marked by a strong foundation in biomedical sciences, which he cultivated during his undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Prof. Derkus demonstrated exceptional aptitude in analytical thinking and laboratory precision, laying the groundwork for a promising academic future. His formative years were spent exploring the intersections of biology, materials science, and engineering, which later became the pillars of his specialized research focus.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Derkus established himself as a dynamic figure in academia through his ongoing association with Ankara University, one of Turkey’s leading research institutions. Here, he contributed not only as a scholar but also as a mentor, actively participating in the development of innovative curriculum modules and engaging students in high-impact research. His professional path is characterized by his interdisciplinary approach, blending principles of nanotechnology, biomedical engineering, and microfabrication to tackle complex challenges in healthcare and diagnostics.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Renowned for his pioneering work in lab-on-a-chip systems, biosensors, and nanobiotechnology, Prof. Derkus has carved out a unique niche in biomedical microdevices. His research focuses on developing miniaturized platforms that can detect diseases with higher sensitivity, speed, and accuracy. By integrating biomaterials with microfluidic technologies, he aims to revolutionize early disease diagnosis and personalized medicine. His published works are rich with innovation, often bridging the gap between engineering and clinical applications.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Over the years, Prof. Derkus has earned numerous accolades that reflect his scientific excellence and leadership. His publications in high-impact journals, along with international conference presentations, have positioned him as a thought leader in the biomedical engineering community. He has been invited to serve on editorial boards and scientific committees, further endorsing his reputation as a respected academic figure. These honors underscore his persistent efforts in advancing applied sciences and improving public health through technological innovation.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Prof. Derkus’s influence extends beyond Turkey, resonating across international scientific circles. His research projects have fostered collaborations with institutions across Europe and Asia, facilitating knowledge exchange and cross-border innovation. By mentoring graduate students and young researchers, he continues to inspire a new generation of scientists. His contributions to the development of cost-effective, portable diagnostic tools hold immense potential for global health, particularly in under-resourced communities.

📚 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Derkus is not just a researcher but a visionary thinker. His legacy is being built upon the transformative technologies he develops, aimed at addressing the future needs of society. His ongoing work promises to enhance biomedical diagnostics, therapeutic monitoring, and point-of-care testing. Looking ahead, he is poised to lead larger interdisciplinary collaborations, potentially contributing to the design of smart diagnostic devices powered by artificial intelligence and integrated sensors.

Publication

  • Title: Supramolecular self-assembly to control structural and biological properties of multicomponent hydrogels
    Authors: BO Okesola, Y Wu, B Derkus, S Gani, D Wu, D Knani, DK Smith, …
    Year: 2019

 

  • Title: Fabrication of human hair keratin/jellyfish collagen/eggshell-derived hydroxyapatite osteoinductive biocomposite scaffolds for bone tissue engineering: From waste to …
    Authors: YE Arslan, TS Arslan, B Derkus, E Emregul, KC Emregul
    Year: 2017

 

  • Title: Applying the miniaturization technologies for biosensor design
    Authors: B Derkus
    Year: 2016

 

  • Title: Myelin basic protein immunosensor for multiple sclerosis detection based upon label-free electrochemical impedance spectroscopy
    Authors: B Derkus, E Emregul, C Yucesan, KC Emregul
    Year: 2013

 

  • Title: Simultaneous quantification of Myelin Basic Protein and Tau proteins in cerebrospinal fluid and serum of Multiple Sclerosis patients using nanoimmunosensor
    Authors: B Derkus, PA Bozkurt, M Tulu, KC Emregul, C Yucesan, E Emregul
    Year: 2017

 

  • Title: Growth‐Factor Free Multicomponent Nanocomposite Hydrogels That Stimulate Bone Formation
    Authors: B Okesola, S Ni, B Derkus, C Galeano, A Hasan, Y Wu, J Ramis, L Buttery, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • Title: Untargeted multi-omic analysis of colorectal cancer-specific exosomes reveals joint pathways of colorectal cancer in both clinical samples and cell culture
    Authors: CC Eylem, M Yilmaz, B Derkus, E Nemutlu, CB Camci, E Yilmaz, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • Title: Multicomponent hydrogels for the formation of vascularized bone-like constructs in vitro
    Authors: B Derkus, BO Okesola, DW Barrett, M D’Este, TT Chowdhury, D Eglin, …
    Year: 2020

 

 

🧭 Conclusion

Prof. Derkus’s journey is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary research and its potential to drive meaningful change in global healthcare. His contributions have not only advanced scientific knowledge but also inspired collaborative innovation on an international scale. With a forward-looking mindset and a deep commitment to societal benefit, he continues to influence the field through research, mentorship, and visionary thinking. As science and medicine evolve, Prof. Burak Derkus remains a guiding force, building a legacy rooted in healing, discovery, and human impact.