Dr Yusuf appointed as Alexander von Humboldt Ambassador Scientist

Posted on December 14, 2021

Dr Abdullahi Yusuf, a senior lecturer in the Department of Zoology and Entomology was recently appointed as a Humboldt Ambassador Scientist by Germany’s Alexander von Humboldt Foundation for three years.

Humboldt Ambassador Scientists support the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation by disseminating information on the Foundation’s sponsorship programmes whilst also acting in an advisory capacity. This is an honorary appointment, and Ambassador Scientists use their research networks to disseminate information about Germany as a research location and advise the Humboldt Foundation and other German funding organisations on local programme promotion and networking. In addition, they are points of contact for Humboldt alumni and Humboldt associations. Currently, 46 Ambassador Scientists in 33 countries support the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation.

“I feel greatly honoured by this appointment as I look forward to serving in this capacity and bringing to the attention of researchers the different funding opportunities and sponsorship within the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, which grants over 800 awards and fellowships each year in line with its motto of ‘Exzellenz verbindet’ - be part of a worldwide network. The funding is for both young (at the postdoctoral level) and experienced researchers and cut across all disciplines. So please get in touch with me if you are interested,” Dr Yusuf said on receiving this exciting news.

Dr Yusuf’s research interests revolve around studying behaviour and chemical communication in insects and their evolution, especially in social insects (ants, bees and termites). “I use techniques like chromatography, behavioural assays, molecular ecology and mathematical modelling to answer pertinent evolutionary questions in these model organisms. My current research projects include studying the evolution of pheromones in African honey bees, chemical communication in the beehive, molecular underpinnings of pheromone synthesis, genetic diversity and population genetics in honey bees. I also work on developing semiochemical-based vector and pest management strategies for disease vectors like tsetse flies – the vector of African sleeping sickness – and some horticultural pests through exploiting their chemical communication. I also work and have an interest in cultural entomology, where I am looking at edible insects, their diversity and sustainable use.”

- Author Martie Meyer

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