Achievement Details

• Dr. Afsana Bhuiyan Toma, Assistant Professor, GEB, as the principal investigator has received a research grant of Taka 90,000 in Agriculture and Environment group from the Ministry of Science and Technology Research and Development (MOST R&D), Govt. of Bangladesh, in the financial year 2024-2025. The title of the project is “Comparison of extracellular Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (ePGPR) and intracellular PGPR (iPGPR) from the rhizosphere of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) on soil fertility and crop productivity.”
•  

Synopsis of the research proposal:
Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) are beneficial microbes in the rhizosphere that enhance plant growth through nutrient solubilization, nitrogen fixation, and pathogen suppression. Given Bangladesh's agricultural challenges, PGPR-based solutions offer a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers and pesticides, improving soil fertility, root development, and crop resilience.PGPR are classified into extracellular (ePGPR) and intracellular (iPGPR) types based on their interaction with plant roots. ePGPR, residing in the rhizosphere or root surface, aid in nutrient uptake, organic matter decomposition, and disease resistance. iPGPR, living within root cells, directly contribute to nitrogen fixation, immune system enhancement, and stress tolerance. Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), an essential leguminous crop in Bangladesh, has significant potential for PGPR-based improvements. Despite its adaptability and soil-enriching properties, suitable PGPR strains for cowpea remain unidentified. This study aims to isolate and characterize ePGPR and iPGPR from the cowpea rhizosphere, assessing their potential to enhance soil health, nutrient availability, reducing agrochemical use and mitigating environmental pollution, ultimately contributing to sustainable agriculture in Bangladesh. 

• Md. Anwar Hossain Adib, Lecturer, GEB, as the principal investigator has received a research grant of Taka 80,000 in Biology, Medical Science and Nutrition Science Group group from the Ministry of Science and Technology Research and Development (MOST R&D), Govt. of Bangladesh, in the financial year 2024-2025. The title of the project is “Detection and Isolation of Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella Spp. in Beverages Sold in Dhaka City, Bangladesh”.
• 
  

Synopsis of the research proposal:
Street food and beverages are popular in Bangladesh, but they pose significant public health risks due to microbial contamination. Common street beverages, such as lassi, sugarcane juice, and lemonade, are often exposed to contamination through vendors’ hands, utensils, and water sources. The lack of proper sanitation, refrigeration, and waste management at vending locations further exacerbates the problem. Studies have detected various foodborne pathogens, including Salmonella spp., E. coli, and Staphylococcus aureus, in these foods, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Salmonellosis, caused by Salmonella spp., is a major health concern, often linked to contaminated food and water. The rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella strains further threatens public health by limiting treatment options and increasing mortality risks. In Bangladesh, foodborne illnesses affect approximately 30 million people annually, with many fatalities, particularly among children. The growing resistance to antibiotics highlights the urgent need for monitoring and managing these pathogens effectively. This study aims to isolate and evaluate Salmonella from different street foods and beverages in Dhaka city and assess their multidrug resistance. Given the alarming global shortage of effective antibiotics, this research will provide crucial insights into the safety of street foods and contribute to public health risk management strategies in Bangladesh.