Dr. Chidozie Egbu | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at North-West University, South Africa

Dr. Chidozie Freedom Egbu is a dedicated postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Animal Science at North-West University, Mafikeng, South Africa, specializing in animal nutrition and physiology. He holds a PhD in Animal Science, focusing on the effects of Moringa oleifera extracts on broiler chickens, and has extensive experience in conducting research, mentoring students, and publishing in peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Egbu has received multiple grants for his research, showcasing his capability in project design and funding applications. He is also actively involved in teaching, having developed and delivered various undergraduate courses. Recognized for his contributions to the field, he has received several awards and honors, including a Faculty Teaching Award. With proficiency in statistical data analysis using multiple programming languages, Dr. Egbu combines practical agricultural experience with academic excellence, positioning him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile

• Scopus Profile

Strengths for the Award:

1. Strong Academic Background:
   • Dr. Egbu holds a Ph.D. in Animal Science with a focus on nutritional interventions in poultry, showcasing his deep knowledge in the field.
   • His educational credentials include a Master’s degree and Bachelor’s degree, providing a robust foundation for his research.
2. Diverse Research Experience:
   • As a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, he is currently involved in significant research projects, including the innovative replacement of soybean in poultry diets with solid-state fermented cowpea.
   • His past research includes impactful studies on Moringa oleifera, demonstrating his ability to conduct practical and applicable research in animal nutrition.
3. Publication Record:
   • Dr. Egbu has authored several peer-reviewed articles, contributing valuable findings to the scientific community. His research on poultry nutrition has resulted in publications in reputable journals, which signifies the quality and relevance of his work.
   • He has also presented his research at various national and international conferences, enhancing his visibility and impact in the field.
4. Grant Acquisition:
   • He has successfully obtained multiple research grants, indicating not only the merit of his research proposals but also his ability to secure funding essential for advancing scientific inquiry.
5. Mentorship and Teaching:
   • His experience in mentoring undergraduate and graduate students highlights his commitment to education and developing the next generation of researchers.
   • Dr. Egbu’s teaching experience across various Animal Science modules demonstrates his proficiency in knowledge dissemination and academic leadership.
6. Leadership and Administrative Roles:
   • His involvement in various academic committees and projects underscores his leadership abilities and active participation in fostering a collaborative research environment.

Areas for Improvement:

1. Broaden Research Interests:
   • While Dr. Egbu has excelled in poultry nutrition, diversifying his research focus to include other animal species or broader agricultural practices could enhance his expertise and expand his impact in the field.
2. Increase Visibility in the Global Research Community:
   • Engaging in more international collaborations could enhance his research scope and allow for greater cross-pollination of ideas, further elevating his academic profile.
3. Enhance Public Engagement:
   • Increasing his outreach efforts to engage with the public and industry stakeholders could help translate his research findings into practical applications, thus broadening the societal impact of his work.
4. Expand Data Analysis Skills:
   • Although he has training in various statistical software, continuous advancement in data analytics techniques, such as machine learning or bioinformatics, could strengthen his research methodology and outputs.

Education:

Chidozie Freedom Egbu has pursued extensive educational qualifications in the field of Animal Science. He obtained a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Animal Science from North-West University, Mafikeng, South Africa, in May 2023, focusing on the effects of Moringa oleifera extracts on poultry. He also holds a Master of Science in Animal Nutrition and Biochemistry from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, awarded in March 2014, where he studied the impact of urea-treated maize stover on grazing calves. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Agriculture in Animal Science, also from the University of Nigeria, completed in February 2009, which involved research on the growth responses of hatchlings. Additionally, he has participated in various training programs and workshops, enhancing his skills in statistical data analysis and ethical research practices.

Experience:

Chidozie Freedom Egbu is a dedicated and accomplished researcher in the field of Animal Science, currently serving as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at North-West University, South Africa. He earned his Ph.D. in Animal Science in May 2023, with a focus on the effects of Moringa oleifera extracts on broiler chickens’ physiological and meat quality responses. His research experience includes conducting feeding trials, laboratory analyses, and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students. Egbu has a strong publication record, with numerous peer-reviewed articles and conference presentations, highlighting his contributions to animal nutrition and welfare. His previous roles include research assistant and lecturer, where he actively participated in academic activities, curriculum development, and student supervision. Egbu’s commitment to advancing agricultural sciences is further demonstrated through his successful grant applications and participation in collaborative research projects.

Research Focus:

Dr. Chidozie Freedom Egbu’s research primarily focuses on enhancing animal production through innovative nutritional strategies, particularly in poultry. His recent work investigates the effects of various plant extracts, such as Moringa oleifera and olive pomace, on the physiological responses and meat quality of broiler chickens and Jumbo quail. He emphasizes sustainable animal husbandry practices by exploring alternative feed ingredients, including solid-state fermented cowpea, to replace conventional soybean in poultry diets. Additionally, Dr. Egbu aims to improve animal health and production efficiency while minimizing reliance on antibiotics. His research contributions are marked by a strong commitment to integrating modern analytical techniques, such as DNA sequencing and microbial culturing, to address challenges in animal nutrition and welfare. Through his collaborative efforts and mentorship in academia, Dr. Egbu strives to advance the field of animal science and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.

Awards and Honors:

Chidozie Freedom Egbu has received several notable awards and honors throughout his academic career. He was recognized as a Postgraduate Semi-finalist at the Leopards Lair Pitching Competition, organized by North-West University and Vaal University of Technology in October 2020, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and research initiatives. Additionally, he was a finalist in the Imvelisi Ideation Bootcamp, aimed at developing African entrepreneurs, in November 2020. His commitment to teaching excellence was acknowledged with the Faculty Teaching Award from Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education in August 2018, highlighting his effective educational practices and contributions to student learning.

Publication Top Notes:

• Effect of dietary olive (Olea europea) pomace on productive performance, and physiological and meat quality parameters in Jumbo quail
  • Authors: Hlatshwayo, I.S., Mnisi, C.M., Egbu, C.F.
  • Year: 2023
  • Citations: 0
• In-feed Salmonella-specific phages alter the physiology, intestinal histomorphology, and carcass and meat quality parameters in broiler chickens
  • Authors: Dlamini, S.B., Mnisi, C.M., Ateba, C.N., Egbu, C.F., Mlambo, V.
  • Year: 2023
  • Citations: 5
• Effect of Moringa oleifera Seed Extract Administered through Drinking Water on Physiological Responses, Carcass and Meat Quality Traits, and Bone Parameters in Broiler Chickens
  • Authors: Egbu, C.F., Motsei, L.E., Yusuf, A.O., Mnisi, C.M.
  • Year: 2022
  • Citations: 7
• Evaluating the Efficacy of Moringa oleifera Seed Extract on Nutrient Digestibility and Physiological Parameters of Broiler Chickens
  • Authors: Egbu, C.F., Motsei, L.E., Yusuf, A.O., Mnisi, C.M.
  • Year: 2022
  • Citations: 5
• Growth, physiological performance, and pork quality of weaner large white piglets to different inclusion levels of nano zinc oxide
  • Authors: Mokone, B., Motsei, L.E., Yusuf, A.O., Egbu, C.F., Ajayi, T.O.
  • Year: 2022
  • Citations: 5

Conclusion:

Dr. Chidozie Freedom Egbu is a commendable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, characterized by his impressive academic credentials, substantial research output, and commitment to mentoring and teaching. His ability to secure research funding and publish high-quality work highlights his contributions to the field of Animal Science. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in broadening his research interests and enhancing global engagement, Dr. Egbu’s strengths far outweigh these considerations. His potential for future contributions to agricultural sciences positions him as a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.