Desta Dugassa | Food Science and Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Desta Dugassa | Food Science and Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Fufa Haramaya University | Ethiopia

Dr. Desta Dugassa Fufa is an accomplished scholar and Assistant Professor specializing in Food Science, Nutrition, and Public Health, with strong interdisciplinary training across food technology, environmental health, and water and sanitation management. He holds a Ph.D. in Food Science and Nutrition, an MPH in Public Health with a focus on environmental health, and dual Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Food Science and Technology and Food Postharvest Technologies. With over a decade of academic and research experience, he has served as Associate Director of the Haramaya Institute of Technology and has led extensive teaching, research, community engagement, and media-based nutrition outreach. His professional expertise spans food product development, nutrition analysis, food quality assessment, ISO and HACCP systems, risk analysis, value-added processing, and environmental safety. He has served as Principal Investigator on multiple funded projects, including studies on maternal and child nutrition, digital food behavior, and value-added food technologies, and has contributed to internationally funded initiatives such as the SMIL project supported by the Gates Foundation. Recognized with an International Analytical Chemistry Award, he actively participates in national and international conferences and reviews scientific manuscripts. His research interests center on functional foods, nutraceuticals, food omics, nanofiber-based packaging, microbiota, and sustainable food systems. He remains committed to advancing science-driven solutions for improved health, nutrition, and food security.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Tamene, A., Fufa, D.D., Bekele, T., Bultosa, G., Kumar, A., & Singh, N. (2025). “Value-addition to composite soft bread wheat cookies using avocado seed and finger millet flours: assessing the nutritional, techno-functional, and sensory properties.” Measurement: Food.

Fufa, D.D. (2025). “Postharvest Physiological Disorders of Apricot.” In Postharvest Physiological Disorders of Fruits.

Fufa, D.D., Bekele, T., Bultosa, G., & Tamene, A. (2025). “Avocado seeds valorization for sustainable food ingredient use: quality attributes evaluation in the traditional fermented teff injera.” Discover Sustainability.

Fufa, D.D., Bekele, T., Tamene, A., & Bultosa, G. (2025). “Drying kinetic models, thermodynamics, physicochemical qualities, and bioactive compounds of avocado (Persea americana Mill. Hass variety) seeds dried using various drying methods.” Heliyon.

Fufa, D.D., Seid, A., & Bitew, Z.W. (2024). “The use of internet-based smartphone apps consistently improved consumers’ healthy eating behaviors: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.” Frontiers in Digital Health.

Theeraphol Senphan – Food Sciene and technology – Excellence in Research 

Assist Prof Dr Theeraphol Senphan - Food Sciene and technology - Excellence in Research 

Maejo University - Thailand 

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Assist Prof Dr Theeraphol Senphan demonstrated a keen interest in the field of Food Technology from an early stage in his academic journey. He pursued his Bachelor's degree in Food Technology at Prince of Songkla University, graduating in February 2010 with a GPA of 3.10. His commitment to academic excellence continued as he pursued a Ph.D. in Food Technology at the same university, graduating in September 2014 with an impressive GPA of 3.81.

Professional Endeavors

Following his educational pursuits, Assist Prof Dr Senphan embarked on a journey in academia. He currently holds a position in the Division of Food Science and Technology at Maejo University in Chiangmai, Thailand. As of the provided information, he is actively contributing to the field of Food Science and Technology, fostering academic growth and research activities.

Contributions and Research Focus

Assist Prof Dr Senphan's research interests span a wide range of topics within the realm of Food Science, including Food Chemistry, Food Processing, Enzymes and Applications, Fat and Oil Chemistry, and the Utilization of By-products. His notable research contributions are reflected in a series of international publications and conference proceedings, showcasing the depth and breadth of his expertise.

His Ph.D. thesis focused on "Proteases from Hepatopancreas of Pacific White Shrimp: Characteristics, Recovery, and Applications." Additionally, his Bachelor's thesis explored the "Use of Green Tea Extract for Melanosis Inhibition in White Shrimp during Iced Storage." These research endeavors reflect a dedication to understanding and improving various aspects of food technology.

Accolades and Recognition

While specific accolades and recognition are not explicitly mentioned in the provided information, Assist Prof Dr Senphan's extensive list of international publications, conference presentations, and the completion of a Ph.D. with a high GPA suggests a strong academic performance and recognition within his field.

Impact and Influence

Assist Prof Dr Senphan's research outputs, particularly the international publications and conference presentations, indicate a significant impact on the field of Food Science. His work on topics such as fish protein hydrolysates, bio-calcium, and the utilization of by-products contributes valuable insights to the scientific community.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Although the provided information does not explicitly mention Assist Prof Dr Senphan's legacy, his continued involvement in academia and research suggests a commitment to leaving a lasting impact in the field. Future contributions may include further publications, mentorship of students, and potential advancements in the application of food science principles to real-world challenges.

In summary, Assist Prof Dr Theeraphol Senphan has established himself as a dedicated academic and researcher in the field of Food Science and Technology. His academic achievements, research contributions, and ongoing professional endeavors position him as a valuable asset to the scientific community, with the potential for continued impactful contributions in the future.

Notable Publication