Dr. Behablom Meharenet | Immunology | Best Researcher Award 

Senior Researcher at Animal Health Institute, Ethiopia

Dr. Behablom Meharenet is a distinguished Ethiopian veterinarian and senior researcher at the Animal Health Institute. His expertise spans parasitology, public health, entomology, and immunology, with a special focus on Human and Animal African Trypanosomiasis. He has played a pivotal role in advancing national disease control programs, combining scientific innovation with practical field applications. Known for his problem-solving approach, he has led impactful projects targeting tsetse fly control and livestock disease management. His publications in reputable journals have informed both veterinary and public health strategies, benefiting rural communities dependent on livestock. Dr. Meharenet’s leadership extends beyond research to capacity building, fostering collaboration between scientists, government agencies, and international partners. His dedication to addressing neglected tropical diseases has enhanced Ethiopia’s position in global health research. Through his work, he continues to promote sustainable livestock health solutions that improve livelihoods and contribute to national food security and economic development.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Behablom Meharenet holds advanced academic qualifications that provide a solid foundation for his research and professional practice. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Hawassa University, where he built expertise in animal health and disease management. To expand his understanding of public health systems and disease prevention, he pursued a Master’s in Public Health at Addis Ababa Medical and Business College. His academic journey also includes specialized training in parasitology, epidemiology, and immunology, equipping him to address complex veterinary and public health challenges. Through research fellowships and professional development programs, he has strengthened his skills in laboratory diagnostics, vector control, and epidemiological survey techniques. His educational achievements have not only enhanced his technical abilities but also fostered a multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving. By integrating veterinary medicine and public health principles, Dr. Meharenet is able to design and implement effective strategies that safeguard both human and animal populations from infectious diseases.

Experience

Dr. Behablom Meharenet has extensive professional experience as a senior researcher, consultant, and project leader in veterinary and public health fields. At the Animal Health Institute, he has overseen national strategies for controlling Human and Animal African Trypanosomiasis, integrating vector control, field epidemiology, and community engagement. His role includes designing and executing experimental trials, such as optimizing sterile insect technique applications for tsetse control. He has led numerous epidemiological studies assessing disease prevalence, vector distribution, and associated risk factors across Ethiopia. Beyond technical research, he has managed multi-stakeholder collaborations with international organizations, ensuring research outcomes translate into practical policy recommendations. His work has improved livestock health, increased rural productivity, and strengthened national capacity to respond to disease threats. Through editorial and peer-review contributions to scientific journals, he has influenced research quality standards. His combined leadership, technical expertise, and field experience make him a recognized authority in vector-borne livestock disease control.

Research Focus

Dr. Behablom Meharenet’s research centers on the epidemiology, prevention, and control of vector-borne diseases, particularly trypanosomosis affecting both humans and animals. His studies investigate disease prevalence, vector biology, and environmental factors influencing transmission. By integrating laboratory diagnostics, field surveys, and intervention trials, he develops strategies for sustainable disease control. His work on tsetse fly population management, including the application of sterile insect techniques, has contributed to innovative approaches in vector suppression. He also explores co-infections such as fascioliasis, providing a broader understanding of disease interactions in livestock. His research addresses the socio-economic impacts of animal diseases, emphasizing the importance of disease-free livestock for rural livelihoods. Collaborations with international agencies strengthen the application of his findings in real-world settings. His multidisciplinary approach combines veterinary medicine, entomology, and public health principles, ensuring that his research outcomes are relevant, scalable, and effective in improving animal health and community well-being.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Implemented strategic trypanosomosis and vector control activities along the Birbir River Basin through the application of deltamethrin-based insecticides using stationary attractive devices (targets), ground spraying, and live bait techniques

Summary:
A baseline and intervention study was conducted from September 2016 to February 2018 measuring entomological and parasitological indicators. After implementing vector control using deltamethrin-treated stationary targets, ground spraying, and live bait techniques, the apparent fly density dropped from 2.61 to 1.68 flies/trap/day (−64.37%). The prevalence of bovine trypanosomosis declined from 7.91% to 4.81% (−60.81%), accompanied by improved mean packed cell volume (PCV) in infected cattle (from 21.87 ± 4.57 to 22.53 ± 4.48 and from 25.41 ± 4.27 to 25.68 ± 4.04). These results demonstrate effective suppression of both vector population and parasite prevalence through the implemented strategies

Conclusion

Dr. Behablom Meharenet exemplifies the blend of academic excellence, field expertise, and practical innovation required to address complex veterinary and public health challenges. His career demonstrates a commitment to both scientific advancement and societal benefit. By tackling neglected tropical diseases such as trypanosomosis, he contributes directly to improving food security, rural livelihoods, and national economic stability. His leadership in multi-disciplinary teams ensures that research findings are translated into actionable strategies adopted by policymakers and implemented in communities. Through partnerships with local and international stakeholders, he fosters sustainable solutions to persistent animal health problems. His editorial and peer-review roles reflect his dedication to maintaining high research standards in the scientific community. Driven by a vision of healthier livestock and resilient communities, Dr. Meharenet continues to advance research that bridges the gap between science and practice, making him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.