Mr. Uttam Bahadur Kunwar, at Yunnan Agricultural University, Nepal.
Uttam Bahadur Kunwar is a passionate agricultural scientist from Nepal specializing in crop genetics and breeding 🌾. Currently pursuing his Master’s degree at Yunnan Agricultural University, China, his research integrates transcriptomics and metabolomics to improve rice seedling emergence in dryland conditions. With over seven years of field-based research experience in Nepal, he has collaborated with international institutions like CIMMYT and USAID-funded programs. Uttam has played key roles in sustainable farming projects, fertilizer and soil management, and the promotion of resilient agricultural practices. Fluent in English, Chinese, Hindi, and Nepali 🌍, he brings a unique multicultural perspective to agricultural innovation. Known for his dedication and collaborative approach, he is a two-time recipient of the Dayi Outstanding International Student Award and the Yunnan Government Scholarship. Through rigorous research, publications, and community outreach, Uttam is committed to enhancing food security and sustainable agriculture across South Asia.
Professional Profile
ORCID
🎓 Education
Uttam Bahadur Kunwar’s academic path reflects his commitment to agricultural advancement 📚. He is currently a Master’s student in Crop Genetics and Breeding at Yunnan Agricultural University (2022–present), where his thesis focuses on integrating transcriptomics and metabolomics to improve rice seedling emergence under dryland conditions. Previously, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science (IAAS), Tribhuvan University, Nepal (2011–2015), with research on the impact of international migration on farming households. His academic foundation was laid at the National School of Sciences, where he studied Botany (2008–2010), and before that at St. Thomas Higher Secondary School (1998–2008) in Nepalgunj, where he completed his School Leaving Certificate 🧬. His interdisciplinary training in plant science, genetics, and field-based research forms a strong base for tackling the challenges of global food systems.
💼 Professional Experience
With robust field experience across multiple international agriculture projects, Uttam Bahadur Kunwar has made valuable contributions to sustainable farming 🌱. From 2018 to 2023, he worked as a Field Research Technician for CIMMYT-Nepal under the Nepal Seed and Fertilizer Project, conducting trials on fertilizer management for key crops like rice, wheat, maize, and cauliflower. Prior to this, he served as an Agriculture Program Officer at Mercy Corps (PAHAL-USAID project) in 2018, promoting improved vegetable farming, goat husbandry, and pest management in remote regions of Achham, Nepal. Earlier in his career, from 2016 to 2017, he was part of CIMMYT’s CSISA Project in Banke and Bardiya, supporting soil research and technology transfer 🚜. His ability to bridge grassroots challenges with scientific interventions and policy insights has positioned him as a key resource in agriculture-based development initiatives.
🔬 Research Interests
Uttam’s research interests lie at the intersection of molecular biology and sustainable agriculture 🔎. He focuses on crop genetics and breeding, with an emphasis on rice improvement through integrated transcriptomics and metabolomics. Specifically, he investigates nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), root system architecture (RSA), and stress tolerance mechanisms such as drought resilience 🌾. His work aims to address the pressing need for resilient and sustainable cropping systems under changing climatic conditions, particularly in South and Southeast Asia. He is also interested in the genetic mapping of agronomic traits and the application of omics technologies in crop improvement. Uttam’s broader vision includes promoting food security through evidence-based, farmer-centric solutions that are both ecologically and economically viable. His passion for bridging laboratory discoveries with real-world field applications makes him a dynamic researcher and a promising contributor to global agricultural innovation 🌍.
🏅 Awards
Uttam Bahadur Kunwar has been recognized for his academic excellence and international contributions to agricultural science 🏆. He received the Yunnan Provincial Government Scholarship in September 2022, an award granted to top-performing international students pursuing higher education in China. Additionally, he earned the Dayi Outstanding International Student Award twice from Yunnan Agricultural University—in March 2023 and again in October 2023—honoring his academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to research. These accolades underscore his dedication to both scientific inquiry and global collaboration. Through these recognitions, Uttam continues to strengthen his resolve to advance crop science and promote sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate and food insecurity. His ability to lead and innovate in multicultural academic environments reflects the promising trajectory of his career in agricultural development 🌟.
📚 Top Noted Publications
Uttam Bahadur Kunwar has contributed impactful research publications in peer-reviewed journals, focusing on crop improvement and molecular approaches to sustainability 🌐:
1. Kunwar, U.B., Manzoor, N., Wen, J., & Pandit, N.R. (2025)
Title: Integrating Agronomic and Molecular Advancements to Enhance Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) and Promote Sustainable Rice Production
Journal: Nitrogen
Volume & Issue: 6(2)
Page: 34
Citations: Cited by 5 articles
🔗 Link: [Not provided, placeholder]
Abstract (summary):
This paper discusses the synergistic use of agronomic practices and molecular genetics to improve nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in rice. It highlights current advancements in nitrogen-responsive gene identification, CRISPR-based gene editing, and adaptive fertilization strategies. The study emphasizes the integration of smart agriculture tools, such as remote sensing and data-driven decision-making, to optimize fertilizer input and mitigate environmental damage while enhancing rice yields.
2. Kunwar, U.B., Rahaman Hera, M.H., & Wen, J. (2025)
Title: Root System Architecture (RSA) and Drought Tolerance in Rice: Exploring Genetic Mechanisms and Genomic Approaches for Enhancing RSA
Journal: Asian Journal of Advances in Agricultural Research
Volume & Issue: 25(2)
Pages: 45–58
Citations: Cited by 3 articles
🔗 Link: [Not provided, placeholder]
Abstract (summary):
This article explores the genetic basis of root system architecture (RSA) in rice and its critical role in conferring drought tolerance. It provides a comprehensive review of genes and QTLs (e.g., DRO1, qRT9) influencing deep rooting and lateral root development. The authors also examine advances in genomic selection, GWAS, and marker-assisted breeding to develop drought-resilient rice cultivars.
Conclusion
Uttam Bahadur Kunwar is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award. He demonstrates a blend of:
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Technical skill,
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Field implementation experience,
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Publication record,
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Recognition through awards,
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And a clear research trajectory focused on sustainable agriculture and genetic improvement of crops.
His profile reflects a young scientist committed to solving real-world problems through science, with a solid foundation and great potential for future leadership in the field.
Recommendation: Strongly support his nomination for the award, while encouraging him to build further leadership experiences and international research networks.