Biography
Dr. Khadijah Abdulkareem is a distinguished academic, researcher, and molecular plant biologist with extensive expertise in cytogenetics, molecular biology, plant biotechnology, and bioinformatics. She currently serves as a Reader in the Department of Plant Biology at University of Ilorin, where she has contributed significantly to teaching, research, mentorship, and academic development.
With an academic career spanning over a decade at the University of Ilorin, Dr. Abdulkareem has risen through the ranks from Assistant Lecturer to Reader, reflecting her commitment to excellence in teaching, scientific research, and institutional service.
She earned a Ph.D. in Plant Biology from the University of Ilorin in 2016, following her Master’s Degree in Botany from the same institution and a Bachelor of Science degree in Botany from Usmanu Danfodiyo University. She also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) from the National Teachers Institute, Kaduna.
Dr. Abdulkareem specializes in plant characterization, molecular genetics, genome analysis, cytogenetics, plant stress biology, sequencing, and bioinformatics. Her research has focused on crop improvement, drought tolerance, molecular characterization of economically important plants, DNA barcoding, and agricultural biotechnology aimed at enhancing food security and sustainable agriculture.
An accomplished scholar, she has authored and co-authored numerous national and international scientific publications in reputable journals across areas such as molecular plant breeding, genetic diversity, biotechnology, crop stress tolerance, and phylogenetic analysis. Her works have contributed meaningfully to scientific knowledge in plant biology and agricultural research.
Dr. Abdulkareem has participated in several international conferences, advanced genomics trainings, molecular biology workshops, and bioinformatics programmes in Nigeria, India, and Pakistan. Her recent professional development engagements include hands-on training in CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing, computational genomics, and advanced molecular biology techniques.
She is an active member of several professional bodies, including the Botanical Society of Nigeria, the Nigerian Society of Experimental Biology, the Botanical Society of America, and the Genetic Society of Nigeria.
Beyond research and teaching, Dr. Abdulkareem is deeply committed to mentorship and academic development, having supervised numerous undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD research projects in molecular biology, plant genetics, and crop biotechnology.
Her dedication to scientific innovation, academic excellence, and sustainable agricultural advancement continues to position her as a respected scholar and leader in the field of plant biology and molecular research in Nigeria and beyond.