Tesfaye Mekonnen

Scientific research professional with a PhD in Plant Breeding and 10+ years of experience coordinating and conducting laboratory, greenhouse, and field research studies. Experienced in research protocol implementation, study data collection and recording, data verification, quality control, research documentation, preparation and handling of research materials, and statistical review. Strong background in biotechnology, molecular biology, laboratory procedures, experimental design, and scientific data management.

Experienced in reviewing research records for accuracy and consistency, troubleshooting experimental issues, maintaining quality and regulatory documentation, and collaborating with researchers and statistical teams.

Researcher (Remote) - University of the Free State - South Africa

(2024-06)

• Conduct and coordinate research activities involving large-scale genomic and phenotypic datasets; collect, organize, review, and analyse research data.
• Apply statistical and genomic prediction tools to evaluate study results and support evidence-based research decisions.
• Contribute to research reports, scientific manuscripts, data interpretation, and publication preparation while maintaining accurate research documentation.

Postdoctoral Fellow: Crop breeding and Genomic Prediction - University of the Free State - South Africa

(2021-01 - 2024-12)

• Designed and executed multi environment field trails, including experimental planning, study implementation, data collection, phenotyping, and statistical analysis.
• Performed molecular genotyping (SSR/SNP) for diversity and trait mapping for disease
• Managed laboratory, field, and greenhouse experiments and maintained research records, study materials, experimental procedures, and data for scientific reporting.
• Performed molecular genotyping using SSR/SNP markers and conducted laboratory analyses using HPLC, GC-MS, and NMR to characterize biological and biochemical traits.
• Applied genomic prediction and statistical models to large research datasets and reviewed data for accuracy, consistency, and interpretation.
• Trained and mentored graduate and undergraduate students in experimental procedures, data collection, analysis, documentation, and scientific research practices

Assistant Professor - Wolkite University - Ethiopia

(2012-01 - 2021-12)

• Led and coordinated scientific research projects involving experimental design, laboratory and field studies, data collection, analysis, documentation, and reporting.
• Advised and supervised 2 MSc students through thesis research design, experimental implementation, data collection, analysis, interpretation, and thesis completion.
• Guided 6 BSc students in planning and conducting undergraduate research projects, including research procedures, data collection, documentation, and interpretation.
• Managed laboratory and field research on bacterial wilt, including pathogen isolation, culturing, molecular identification, disease screening, and host-resistance evaluation.
• Directed breeding and research activities using marker-assisted selection, genomic selection, multi-environment trials, and phenotypic data management.
• Used R and SAS for research data management, statistical analysis, and interpretation; reviewed research data and supported troubleshooting of experimental and analytical issues.

Maize & Sorghum Breeder – Research Scientist - Jimma Agricultural Research Center/EIAR - Ethiopia

(2011-01 - 2012-12)

• Coordinated crop research trials, hybrid evaluation, data collection, seed increase, and research documentation.
• Implemented experimental protocols and evaluated breeding materials for drought and nutrient-deficient environments.
• Collaborated with research partners and maintained accurate records of breeding and evaluation activities.

Seed Quality Assurance & Phytosanitary Specialist - Gondar Plant Health Laboratory - Ethiopia

(2011-08 - 2012-12)

• Conducted laboratory and field testing for germination, purity, vigor, moisture, and seed health using established quality procedures.
• Maintained quality, phytosanitary, audit, and traceability records and coordinated regulatory compliance activities.
• Inspected, sampled, and certified seed lots and supported quarantine procedures to prevent pest and disease spread.

PhD - Plant Breeding - Haramaya University (2019-01)

MSc - Plant Breeding - Bahir Dar University (2011-01)

BSc - Crop Production and Protection - Haramaya University (2009-01)