Ayooluwa Ojo | Animal Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Ayooluwa Ojo | Animal Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Graduate Student | Purdue University | United States

Ayooluwa Omobolaji Ojo is a dedicated scholar and researcher, currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Animal Sciences at Purdue University, where he specializes in quantitative genetics, genomics, and systems biology. His research focuses on genetic improvement in livestock species, with a particular interest in longitudinal traits and the integration of various data sources to understand genetic variability in phenotypic traits. With a strong academic foundation, Ayooluwa has published multiple papers in prominent journals and has contributed significantly to the field of animal breeding and genetics.

Profile

Scholar

Education

Ayooluwa Ojo is currently a Ph.D. candidate at Purdue University, where he has been working under the guidance of Dr. Hinayah Rojas de Oliveira since January 2025. His research explores genomic selection, maintenance efficiency, and the genetic parameters of mature cow size, particularly in beef cattle. Prior to this, he completed a Masterā€™s in Animal Sciences at Purdue University, focusing on genomic selectionā€™s impact on mature cow size and maintenance efficiency. He holds a Bachelorā€™s degree in Agriculture (Animal Sciences) from Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria, where he graduated with First Class Honors. Ayooluwa further enhanced his expertise with a professional certificate in Animal Breeding and Genetics from Wageningen University & Research.

Experience

Ayooluwa has a diverse range of experiences, both in academia and industry. He has served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant in Animal Breeding at Purdue University, where he supports undergraduate students through lab sessions and office hours. His involvement as a judge for various research expos further demonstrates his commitment to the academic community. Prior to his current role, Ayooluwa worked as an undergraduate research intern at Obafemi Awolowo University, gaining valuable experience in agricultural fieldwork, including crop and livestock management. His internships at Ope Farms and as an elementary school teacher in Nigeria also contributed to his skill set in agricultural management and education.

Research Interests

Ayooluwa’s research interests are focused on the genetic and genomic analysis of livestock species, particularly in relation to longitudinal traits. He is keen on improving livestock efficiency through genomic selection and developing better modeling approaches for understanding genetic parameters. His work is crucial in addressing challenges in the agricultural sector, such as optimizing breeding strategies for cattle and improving feed efficiency. Ayooluwaā€™s approach integrates phenotype, pedigree, and genomic data, enabling him to explore the genetic basis of phenotypic variability in livestock traits.

Awards

Ayooluwa has received several prestigious awards throughout his academic journey. Notably, he was awarded the John Deere Graduate Student Scholarship in December 2024, recognizing his excellence in academics, extracurricular activities, and community involvement. In October 2024, he received the Ross-Lynn Research Scholar Fund from Purdue University, which provided him with a stipend and tuition fee remission. His achievements were also recognized in 2023 when he won the 1st Place Research Discussion Contest at the MANRRS38 National Conference and received multiple travel awards for his contributions to agricultural research.

Publications

Ayooluwa has made significant contributions to animal genetics through his research publications. Some of his notable works include:

  • Ojo, A.O., Mulim, H.A., Garcia, A., Retallick-Riley, K.J., Miller, S., Oliveira, H.R. (2025). Comparative Analysis of Recursive and Alternative Modeling Approaches Considering Body Condition Score for Genetic Evaluation of Mature Cow Weight. Under review for Journal of Animal Breeding and Genetics.
  • Ojo, A. O., Campos, G. S., Mulim, H. A., Garcia, A., Schinckel, A. P., Miller, S., Retallick-Riley, K. J., & Oliveira, H. R. (2025). Estimation of Genetic Parameters for Mature Cow Size in North American and Australian Angus Cattle. Under review for Journal of Animal Science.
  • Ojo, A. O., Mulim, H. A., Campos, G. S., Junqueira, V. S., Lemenager, R. P., Schoonmaker, J. P., & Oliveira, H. R. (2024). Exploring Feed Efficiency in Beef Cattle: From Data Collection to Genetic and Nutritional Modeling. Animals, 14(24), 3633. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14243633

His work has also been presented at various international conferences and published in conference proceedings, further cementing his position in the field.

Conclusion

Ayooluwa Omobolaji Ojo is a rising star in the field of animal sciences, with a strong academic background and a wealth of experience in animal breeding and genetics. His research is focused on improving livestock efficiency through genomic selection, and his contributions to the field are already having a significant impact. With numerous awards, publications, and professional affiliations to his name, Ayooluwa is well on his way to becoming a leader in agricultural genomics. His passion for advancing the understanding of genetic traits in livestock, coupled with his commitment to teaching and community involvement, positions him as a future innovator in the field of animal sciences.

Xiangfeng Kong | Animal Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Xiangfeng Kong | Animal Nutrition | Best Researcher AwardĀ 

Researcher | Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences | China

Based on the provided information, Xiangfeng Kong, Ph.D., is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Here’s a detailed evaluation of his strengths, areas for improvement, and a concluding assessment:

Strengths

  1. Extensive Research Experience:
    • Dr. Kong has held academic positions from Assistant Professor to Professor at a prestigious institution, demonstrating a solid and progressive career trajectory.
    • His experience spans over a decade of leading and participating in numerous research projects related to swine nutrition, microbiology, and physiology.
  2. Diverse Research Projects:
    • He has successfully led various high-impact research projects, including those funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, National Key Research and Development Projects, and other prestigious funding bodies.
    • His projects cover a wide range of topics such as nutrient metabolism, gut microbiology, and reproductive physiology in pigs, showcasing a broad and deep understanding of his field.
  3. Significant Contributions to Science:
    • Dr. Kong has published a substantial number of articles in reputable journals, indicating a high level of productivity and impact in his field. His research has contributed valuable insights into swine nutrition, microbiology, and the development of herbal feed additives.
  4. Innovative Approach:
    • His work on Chinese herbal feed additives and the regulation of gut microorganisms reflects a commitment to integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific methods, potentially offering novel solutions to common issues in swine production.
  5. Leadership in Research:
    • Dr. Kong has been involved in significant research initiatives and collaborations, demonstrating his leadership skills and ability to work effectively within a research team and across various projects.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Impact and Collaboration:
    • While Dr. Kong has a strong record in swine research, expanding his collaborations to include international institutions could further enhance the global impact of his work. Collaborations outside his primary field could also diversify his research scope.
  2. Public Engagement and Outreach:
    • Increasing efforts in public outreach and engagement could help translate his research findings into practical applications for the industry and broader community. This could involve participating in more public science forums or educational initiatives.
  3. Funding and Resource Management:
    • Securing additional funding from a wider range of sources or increasing involvement in interdisciplinary projects might further support and expand his research activities.
  4. Research Dissemination:
    • While Dr. Kong has a robust publication record, focusing on disseminating findings through high-impact journals and engaging in more review articles or editorials could enhance the visibility and influence of his work.

Short Bio:

Dr. Xiangfeng Kong is a Professor at the Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he has been a key figure since September 2012. His research focuses on swine nutrition, specifically the amino acid requirements of pigs, the development and regulation of gut microorganisms, and the application of Chinese herbal feed additives. His work significantly contributes to improving the health and productivity of pigs, particularly in subtropical agriculture regions.

Profile

SCOPUS

Education:

Dr. Kong obtained his Ph.D. in Animal Nutrition from the Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences. His educational background includes extensive studies in animal science, with a specific emphasis on the nutritional needs and health management of swine.

Experience:

Dr. Kong began his career as an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Subtropical Agriculture in July 2006. He advanced to Associate Professor in October 2007 and became a Professor in September 2012. Throughout his tenure, he has led several significant research projects funded by national and provincial programs, focusing on various aspects of swine nutrition and health.

Research Interests:

Dr. Kong’s primary research interests include swine amino acid nutrition, the development and regulation of the conceptus in Chinese pig breeds, and the role of gut microorganisms in swine health. He is also deeply involved in the development of Chinese herbal feed additives aimed at enhancing pig growth and immune response.

Awards:

Dr. Kong has received numerous accolades for his contributions to agricultural science, including recognition from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and various provincial science and technology awards. His research has been pivotal in advancing the understanding and application of nutritional strategies in swine production.

Publications:

Kong, X.F., Hu, Y.-L., Rui, R., Wang, D.-Y., Li, X.-R. Effects of Chinese herbal medicinal ingredients on peripheral lymphocyte proliferation and serum antibody titer after vaccination in Chicken. International Immunopharmacology, 2004, 4: 975-982.

Kong, X., Yin, Y., Wu, G., Liu, H., Yin, F., Li, T., Huang, R., Ruan, Z., Xiong, H., Deng, Z., Xie, M., Liao, Y., Kim, S. Dietary supplementation with Acanthopanax senticosus extract modulates cellular and humoral immunity in weaned piglets. Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Science, 2007, 20(9): 1453-1461.

Kong, X.F., Wu, G.Y., Liao, Y.P., Hou, Z.P., Liu, H.J., Yin, F.G., Li, T.J., Huang, R.L., Zhang, Y.M., Deng, D., Xie, M.Y., Deng, Z.Y., Xiong, H., Ruan, Z., Yang, C.B., Yin, Y.L., Fan, M.Z. Dietary supplementation with Chinese herbal ultra-fine powder enhances cellular and humoral immunity in early-weaned piglets. Livestock Science, 2007, 108: 94-98.

Kong, X.F., Wu, G.Y., Liao, Y.P., Hou, Z.P., Liu, H.J., Yin, F.G., Li, T.J., Huang, R.L., Zhang, Y.M., Deng, D., Kang, P., Wang, R.X., Tang, Z.Y., Yang, C.B., Deng, Z.Y., Xiong, H., Chu, W.Y., Ruan, Z., Xie, M.Y., Yin, Y.L. Effects of Chinese herbal ultra-fine powder as a dietary additive on growth performance, serum metabolites and intestinal health in early-weaned piglets. Livestock Science, 2007, 108: 272-275.

Kong, X.F., Yin, Y.L., He, Q.H., Yin, F.G., Liu, H.J., Li, T.J., Huang, R.L., Geng, M.M., Ruan, Z., Deng, Z.Y., Xie, M.Y., Wu, G.Y. Dietary supplementation with Chinese herbal powder enhances ileal digestibilities and serum concentrations of amino acids in young pigs. Amino Acids, 2009, 37: 573-582.

Kong, X.-F., Yin, Y.-L., He, Q.-H., Yin, F.-G., Liu, H.-J., Li, T.-J., Huang, R.-L., Fan, M.-Z., Liu, Y.-L., Hou, Y.-Q., Li, P., Ruan, Z., Deng, Z.-Y., Xie, M.-Y., Xiong, H., Yin, Y.-L. Acanthopanax senticosus extracts as a dietary additive enhances the apparent ileal digestibility of amino acids in weaned piglets. Livestock Science, 2009, 123(2-3): 261-267.

Kong, X., Zhang, Y., Wu, X., Yin, Y., Tan, Z., Yang, F., Yan, F., Bo, M., Huang, R., Li, T. Fermentation characterization of Chinese Yam polysaccharide and its effects on the gut microbiota of rats. International Journal of Microbiology, 2009, doi: 10.1155/2009/598152.

Conclusion

Dr. Xiangfeng Kong is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive experience, diverse research portfolio, significant scientific contributions, and innovative approaches in swine nutrition and microbiology highlight his exceptional qualifications. By addressing the areas for improvement, such as broadening collaborations and enhancing public engagement, Dr. Kong could further amplify the impact of his research and strengthen his position as a leading researcher in his field. Overall, his achievements and ongoing contributions make him a standout candidate for this prestigious award.