Publication Profile:🌟👨🎓
Education:
- 🎓 Ph.D. in Agrobiodiversity (Plant Genetic Resources Characterization of Ethiopian Durum Wheat – 2011 – 2014)
- 🎓 MSc in International Resource Development from the University of Bangor Wales (UK) – 2007 – 2008
- 🎓 BSc in Crop Science from Mekelle University – 1999 – 2003
Work Experience:
- 🌱 Scientist, Participatory Crop Improvement at Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT (ex-Bioversity)
- 🌏 Global Projects Management:
- Use of genetic diversity and Evolutionary Plant Breeding for Enhanced Farmer Resilience to Climate Change, Sustainable Productivity, and Nutrition Under Rainfed Conditions (2018 – 2023)
- Upscaling Access to Crowdsourced “Winner” Seed Varieties in Ethiopia (2020 – 2023)
- TPP Project – Socio-economic Viability of Agroecological Practices in Kenya
- 📈 Impact: Seed sector development, varietal portfolio improvement through participatory varietal selection, and crowdsourcing crop improvement.
- 🌱 Consultant for Integrated Seed System Development for Bioversity International
- 🔄 Role: Integration of seeds4Needs approach (Crowdsourcing) into the bilateral project of Integrated Seeds System Development between Ethiopia and The Netherlands.
- 🌱 Assistant Lecturer – Associate Professor at Mekelle University, Ethiopia
- 📚 Teaching responsibilities: Drought Management, Plant Physiology, Plant Genetics, Statistics, Biometry, and Experimental Design, Plant Breeding.
- 🌐 Master of Science Study at Bangor University, Wales, UK – International Natural Resources Development with specialization in Plant Stress Physiology.
Research Focus 📝:
Dr. Dejene Kassahun Mengistu’s pioneering work centers on the intersection of crop diversity, climate change, and resilient farming practices. His research spans various critical areas, including farmers’ perceptions of climate change and coping strategies, as evidenced in the case study from Adiha, central Tigray, Ethiopia. He has significantly contributed to the field of citizen science, particularly in crop variety management for climate adaptation, exemplified by his work on crowdsourcing participatory variety selection.
Additionally, Dr. Mengistu’s high-density molecular characterization and association mapping in Ethiopian durum wheat landraces showcase his commitment to advancing wheat breeding for greater diversity. His integrated agronomic crop management strategies, particularly in improving tef productivity under terminal drought, underline his dedication to sustainable water stress management in agriculture.
Innovative approaches, such as crowdsourcing through on-farm triadic comparisons of technologies (tricot), mark Dr. Mengistu’s commitment to engaging farmers in the research process, promoting inclusivity, and enhancing agricultural practices. His impactful research reflects a holistic perspective on addressing the challenges posed by climate change and promoting sustainable agricultural solutions. 🌱🔍