Karim Kadr | Biotechnology | Excellence in Research

Dr. Karim Kadr | Biotechnology | Excellence in Research

Dr at Regional Research Center on Oasis Agriculture, Tunisia

Karim Kadri,  has devoted his career to advancing agricultural science in arid regions. After starting as an engineer at the National Institute of Agronomic Research of Tunisia in 2004, he transitioned to the Regional Research Center for Oasis Agriculture (CRRAO) in Degache, Tozeur, in 2007. Here, he now leads the Date Palm Genetic Resources and Biotechnology Laboratory. Kadri’s work focuses on preserving and enhancing date palm genetic resources through morphological, physiological, and molecular studies. Passionate about adapting agriculture to climate change, his research targets sustainable practices for oasis systems. Beyond work, Karim enjoys tennis, travel, and cultural explorations.

Profile

Scopus

Scholar

Education 🎓

PhD in Biology (2016): Faculty of Science of Tunisia, focusing on plant biotechnology. Master in Genetic and Molecular Biology (2005): Faculty of Sciences of Tunisia, specializing in molecular research methodologies. National Engineer Diploma in Bioindustry (2003): National Institute of Applied Sciences of Tunis, providing a foundation in applied bioindustrial processes. High School Graduation (1997): A-level in Natural Sciences from the Secondary School of Abou Kacem CHEBBI, Tozeur.

 Experience 💼

2004-2006: Contract Engineer at the National Institute of Agronomic Research of Tunisia, focusing on morpho-physiological evaluation of barley under salt stress. 2006-2007: Contract Researcher in the Biotechnology and Plant Physiology Laboratory, contributing to significant plant physiology projects. Since August 2007: Researcher and Laboratory Head at CRRAO, Degache, Tozeur, Tunisia. Overseeing research in date palm genetic resources, Kadri has led numerous initiatives on genetic preservation and climate resilience.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Recognition for significant contributions to date palm research and conservation efforts. Acknowledged as a leading researcher in Tunisia for advancements in agricultural biotechnology. Commended by various academic institutions for efforts in promoting sustainability in oasis ecosystems. Recipient of regional accolades for research addressing climate change adaptation strategies.

Research Focus 🔍

Karim Kadri’s research primarily focuses on the genetic conservation and enhancement of date palms, crucial for sustainable agriculture in oasis systems. He delves into morphological, physiological, and molecular analyses to safeguard and improve date palm cultivars. With climate change posing increased threats, Kadri’s work has pivoted toward selecting resilient date palm pollinators to bolster the oasis ecosystem’s sustainability. His research aims at improving both the quality and quantity of date palm production to support regional agricultural resilience.

Conclusion 📝

Dr. Karim Kadri’s profound dedication to biotechnology, especially in the context of date palm genetic resources and climate change adaptation, makes him a strong candidate for the Excellence in Research Award. His leadership, innovative contributions, and sustainable focus are exemplary. With targeted improvements in language proficiency and international engagement, his already impactful career could achieve even greater recognition and influence.

Publications 📚

  • Effect of Pollen Quantity on Fruit Set, Seed Germination, and Plantlet Vigor of Date Palm cv. Deglet Nour
    • Authors: M. Mesnoua, M. Roumani, M. Tahirine, K. Kadri, A. Parmar
    • Publication: Agricultural Research
    • Year: 2024
    • Key Insight: This study examines how varying pollen quantities impact the development of fruit and subsequent seed germination and vigor in the ‘Deglet Nour’ variety of date palm.

 

  • Genetic Analysis of Anthracnose Resistant and Heat Tolerant Chili Inbred Lines Based on Morpho-Physiological Characteristics
    • Authors: M. Chowdhury, F. Nazneen, M.Y. Rafii, S.I. Ismail, S.I. Ramlee, M. Hosen, et al.
    • Publication: Chilean Journal of Agricultural Research
    • Year: 2023
    • Focus: Highlights genetic resilience in chili lines, combining resistance to anthracnose and heat tolerance through morpho-physiological assessments.

 

  • The Genetic Diversity Analysis of Tunisian Male Date Palm Cultivars (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Revealed by Phenotypic and Molecular Markers
    • Authors: K. Karim, H. Hamza, H. Tiba, M. Elsafy
    • Publication: European Journal of Biology and Biotechnology
    • Year: 2022
    • Summary: Explores the genetic diversity of male date palm cultivars in Tunisia using phenotypic and molecular analysis.

 

  • Transcriptional Changes in Salt-Responsive Genes of Barley Subjected to Salt Stress
    • Authors: K. Karim, N. Amani Ben, N. M’Barek Ben
    • Journal: International Journal of Innovation and Applied Studies
    • Year: 2014
    • Findings: Investigates gene expression changes in barley in response to salt stress, contributing to understanding stress tolerance mechanisms.

 

  • RAPD Markers and Morpho-Physiological Characterization of Some Tunisian Barley Ecotypes
    • Authors: K. Karim, A. Rawda, C.M. Hatem, B.N. M’barek
    • Publication: Biological Diversity and Conservation
    • Year: 2010
    • Details: Utilizes RAPD markers to characterize barley ecotypes, shedding light on genetic variation within the species.

 

  • Study on the Effects of Pollen Sources on the Agronomic, Biochemical, Mineral, and Pomological Traits of Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) cv ‘Deglet Nour’ Fruits
    • Authors: K. Kadri, M. Jemni, M. Mesnoua, S.S. Sharma, A.A. Malik, S. Makhlouf, et al.
    • Publication: Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution
    • Year: 2024
    • Implication: Analyzes how different pollen sources affect key traits of the ‘Deglet Nour’ variety.

 

  • Genetic Diversity of Tunisian and Indian Date Palm Cultivars and Genotypes Revealed by AFLP Markers
    • Authors: K. Karim, A.A. Malik, H. Hamza, E. Mohamed, S.S. Sharma
    • Year: 2023
    • Contribution: Uses AFLP markers to explore genetic diversity across Tunisian and Indian date palm cultivars.

 

 

  • Effect of Pollination Technique on Agronomic and Physicochemical Characteristics of Date Palm Fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) cv. ‘Deglet Nour’
    • Authors: K. Karim, A. Karim, H. Hamza, A. Manar, C. Karmous, T. Bettaieb
    • Publication: Horticultural Science and Technology
    • Year: 2022
    • Outcome: Discusses the impacts of various pollination techniques on fruit quality and yield.

 

 

Afif Ben Mahmoud | Genomics | Excellence in Research

 Dr. Afif Ben Mahmoud | Genomics | Excellence in Research  

 Dr at Qatar Biomedical Research Institute,  Qatar

Afif Ben Mahmoud, Ph.D., is a Senior Research Associate at the Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, in Doha, Qatar. A Tunisian national, Dr. Ben Mahmoud specializes in human molecular genetics and has dedicated over ten years to researching neurological disorders and genetic diseases. He holds a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences and has made significant contributions to understanding neurodevelopmental disorders through innovative research techniques and mentoring graduate students. His work emphasizes the identification of genetic factors in various disorders, making him a vital asset to the scientific community in Qatar and beyond.

Profile

Scopus

Scholar

Education 🎓

Dr. Ben Mahmoud earned his Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (Human Molecular Genetics) from the Faculty of Sciences of Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia, in 2015. Prior to this, he obtained a Master’s degree in Genetics and Biodiversity from the Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Monastir, Tunisia, in 2009. His academic journey began with an Engineering degree in Animal Production from the Higher School of Agronomy of Mateur, University of Carthage, Tunisia, in 2007. This solid educational foundation has equipped him with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in his research endeavors.

Experience 💼

Since 2019, Dr. Ben Mahmoud has served as a Senior Research Associate at the Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, where he identifies and characterizes candidate genes for neurodevelopmental disorders by analyzing whole exome and whole genome sequencing data. Before this, he was a Postdoctoral Researcher at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of UAE, from 2016 to 2018, focusing on genomic and cellular studies of autosomal recessive disorders. He has also taught cell biology and genetics at various higher education institutions in Tunisia, contributing to the academic development of future scientists.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Dr. Ben Mahmoud has received recognition for his contributions to genetic research and education. He participated in the development of cell lines using CRISPR-Cas9 technology at UAEU, which aims to better understand diseases. His work has been featured in multiple peer-reviewed publications, establishing him as an authority in his field. He has been actively involved in mentoring students, fostering the next generation of researchers, and enhancing the academic environment in which he works.

Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Ben Mahmoud’s research primarily focuses on neurological disorders and human genetic diseases, specifically identifying the genetic basis of neurodevelopmental disorders. He employs advanced techniques such as next-generation sequencing and molecular biology methods to analyze candidate genes. His recent studies aim to elucidate the cellular mechanisms behind disease-causing mutations, contributing to the broader understanding of genetic disorders. Dr. Ben Mahmoud’s work is instrumental in developing targeted therapeutic strategies, enhancing the potential for personalized medicine in treating complex genetic conditions.

Conclusion 📝

Dr. Afif Ben Mahmoud exemplifies excellence in research through his substantial contributions to the field of neurological disorders and human genetics. His extensive experience, technical expertise, and commitment to mentorship position him as a strong candidate for the Excellence in Research Award. By addressing potential areas for improvement, such as broadening his research focus and enhancing public engagement, Dr. Ben Mahmoud could further amplify his impact within the scientific community and beyond. His ongoing work promises to advance our understanding of complex genetic diseases, making him a valuable asset to the field.

Publications Top Notes

  • Antagonist effects of Bacillus spp. strains against Fusarium graminearum for protection of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. subsp. durum)
    • Authors: I Zalila-Kolsi, AB Mahmoud, H Ali, S Sellami, Z Nasfi, S Tounsi, …
    • Journal: Microbiological Research, 2016
    • Pages: 148-158

 

  • Mitochondrial DNA mutations and polymorphisms in asthenospermic infertile men
    • Authors: S Baklouti-Gargouri, M Ghorbel, A Ben Mahmoud, E Mkaouar-Rebai, …
    • Journal: Molecular Biology Reports, 2013
    • Volume/Pages: 40, 4705-4712

 

  • A novel mutation MT-COIII m.9267G>C and MT-COI m.5913G>A mutation in mitochondrial genes in a Tunisian family with maternally inherited diabetes and deafness (MIDD)
    • Authors: M Tabebi, E Mkaouar-Rebai, M Mnif, F Kallabi, AB Mahmoud, WB Saad, …
    • Journal: Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 2015
    • Volume/Pages: 459(3), 353-360

 

  • Genetics of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism—Human and mouse genes, inheritance, oligogenicity, and genetic counseling
    • Authors: ED Louden, A Poch, HG Kim, A Ben-Mahmoud, SH Kim, LC Layman
    • Journal: Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, 2021
    • Volume: 534, 111334

 

  • Identification of a novel m.9588G>A missense mutation in the mitochondrial COIII gene in asthenozoospermic Tunisian infertile men
    • Authors: S Baklouti-Gargouri, M Ghorbel, A Ben Mahmoud, E Mkaouar-Rebai, …
    • Journal: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics, 2014
    • Volume/Pages: 31, 595-600

 

  • A novel aberrant splice site mutation in COL27A1 is responsible for Steel syndrome and extension of the phenotype to include hearing loss
    • Authors: N Gariballa, A Ben-Mahoud, M Komara, AM Al-Shamsi, …
    • Journal: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A, 2017
    • Volume/Pages: 173(5), 1257-1263

 

  • Whole mitochondrial genome screening of a family with maternally inherited diabetes and deafness (MIDD) associated with retinopathy: A putative haplotype associated to MIDD and its phenotypic implications
    • Authors: M Tabebi, N Charfi, F Kallabi, O Alila-Fersi, AB Mahmoud, A Tlili, …
    • Journal: Journal of Diabetes and its Complications, 2017
    • Volume/Pages: 31(1), 253-259

 

  • Two novel mutations in COII and tRNAHis mitochondrial genes in asthenozoospermic infertiles men
    • Authors: BG Siwar, G Myriam, BM Afif, MR Emna, C Nozha, S Afifa, F Faiza, …
    • Journal: Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 2014
    • Volume/Pages: 450(1), 610-615

 

  • A novel m.6307A>G mutation in the mitochondrial COXI gene in asthenozoospermic infertile men
    • Authors: S Baklouti-Gargouri, M Ghorbel, A Ben Mahmoud, E Mkaouar-Rebai, …
    • Journal: Molecular Reproduction and Development, 2013
    • Volume/Pages: 80(7), 581-587

 

  • Bacillus amyloliquefaciens: Harnessing Its Potential for Industrial, Medical, and Agricultural Applications—A Comprehensive Review
    • Authors: I Zalila-Kolsi, A Ben-Mahmoud, R Al-Barazie
    • Journal: Microorganisms, 2023
    • Volume/Pages: 11(9), 2215

 

  • Novel cases of Tunisian patients with mutations in the gene encoding 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 and a founder effect
    • Authors: BB Rhouma, F Kallabi, N Mahfoudh, AB Mahmoud, RT Engeli, H Kamoun, …
    • Journal: The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 2017
    • Volume/Pages: 165, 86-94

 

  • Eif2b3 mutants recapitulate phenotypes of vanishing white matter disease and validate novel disease alleles in zebrafish
    • Authors: YR Lee, SH Kim, A Ben-Mahmoud, OH Kim, TI Choi, KH Lee, B Ku, J Eum, …
    • Journal: Human Molecular Genetics, 2021
    • Volume/Pages: 30(5), 331-342