Professor Achille Ephrem Assogbadjo is an internationally recognized agronomist and forester with a distinguished career in biodiversity conservation, ethnobotany, and sustainable natural resource management. Holding a PhD in Applied Biological Sciences from Ghent University (Belgium), he is a Full Professor of Conservation Genetics, Forest Ecology, and Ethnobotany at the University of Abomey-Calavi (Benin). His academic influence extends globally through visiting professorships at leading universities in Côte d’Ivoire, Costa Rica, Brazil, and Japan.
A pioneer in conservation genetics, agroforestry, and non-timber forest products (NTFPs), Professor Assogbadjo is particularly renowned for advancing scientific knowledge on orphan crops, most notably the African baobab (Adansonia digitata L.). His research integrates traditional knowledge with cutting-edge science to promote community-based conservation, resilience, and sustainable use of biodiversity.
With an H-index of 52 (Google Scholar) and 35 (Scopus), he has authored over 255 peer-reviewed publications, 26 books and book chapters, 11 conference proceedings, and multiple technical reports. His strong commitment to capacity building is reflected in his supervision of more than 400 BSc and MSc students and 26 PhD graduates, alongside ongoing mentoring of emerging scientists across Africa.
Professor Assogbadjo’s scientific leadership is widely recognized through prestigious distinctions, including the Georg Forster Research Award (Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, Germany) and the Young African Research Award (ASRT, Egypt). He is listed among the “World Register of Outstanding Scientists of the 21st Century” by the Socrates Committee (Oxford, UK).
Beyond academia, he has secured and led over 25 research grants and 10 international projects, contributing to major initiatives on biodiversity, climate change, food security, and sustainable agriculture. A member of more than 20 international scientific networks, he provides expert guidance to institutions such as the United Nations, African Union, and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Driven by excellence, integrity, and community impact, Professor Assogbadjo remains a leading voice shaping the future of biodiversity conservation and climate-resilient development in Africa and beyond.
