PhD Candidate Diana Teelee Saleh Explores Genetic Stability and Biodiversity in Almond Genotypes Across Duhok Province

📍 Duhok, Iraq – March 16, 2025 | University of Duhok Media

UOD - March 16. 2025 - University Press Office UNPO | The College of Science and the Department of Biology at the University of Duhok (UOD) proudly announce the successful defense of an innovative PhD dissertation by researcher Ms. Diana Teelee Saleh Saleh. Her thesis, entitled:

"Application of Different DNA Markers in Genetic Diversity Analysis Among Almond (Prunus dulcis) Genotypes in Duhok Province, Kurdistan Region-Iraq, and Detection of Genetic Stability in Micropropagated Plantlets,”

has been officially approved following a rigorous evaluation session held on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at 9:00 AM, in the Seminar Hall of the College of Science.

Pioneering Agricultural Research in Kurdistan’s Almond Sector

Ms. Diana's research breaks new ground in the field of plant molecular biology and agricultural biotechnology, focusing on the genetic diversity and micropropagation stability of almond varieties cultivated across the Duhok region. Utilizing advanced DNA marker technologies, her work provides a scientific foundation for:

• Enhancing almond crop resilience and productivity
• Conserving native genotypes of economic and ecological significance
• Supporting biotechnological methods in plant propagation across the Kurdistan Region

This study not only addresses regional agricultural challenges but also contributes to national food security and genetic resource management strategies.

Distinguished Supervision and Expert Evaluation

The research was jointly supervised by two of UOD’s most respected faculty members:

• Prof. Dr. Jaladat M.Salih Jubrael
• Prof. Dr. Mosleh Saeed Duhoky

Both professors commended the scientific rigor and practical relevance of the thesis, emphasizing its alignment with UOD’s mission to promote sustainable research that benefits the region's agricultural development.

Evaluation Committee Members

The PhD defense was evaluated by a distinguished panel of scholars from prestigious Iraqi universities:

• Prof. Dr. Kadhim Muhammed Ibrahim – Al-Nahrain University (Chair / Member)
• Prof. Dr. Gharbia Hrmiz Danial – University of Duhok (Member)
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Chnar Najmaddin Fathulla – Salahaddin University (Member)
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Shamiran Salih Abdulrahman – University of Zakho (Member)
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Dalal Yousif Khudhur Sinjare – University of Duhok (Member)
• Prof. Dr. Jaladat M.Salih Jubrael – University of Duhok (Supervisor / Member)
• Prof. Dr. Moseih Saeed Duhoky– University of Duhok (Supervisor / Member)

The committee praised the quality of the research and unanimously awarded an excellent grade, marking a significant academic milestone in the biology department.

Strategic Alignment with UOD’s Research Vision

This dissertation supports UOD’s Strategic Plan 2023–2038, which emphasizes:

• Advancing genetic and agricultural research
• Promoting sustainable development and food security
• Encouraging innovation in scientific methods and biotechnology
• Fostering student-led research aligned with regional and global needs
   

By integrating molecular tools with real-world agricultural applications, UOD is reinforcing its leadership in science and sustainability.

Watch highlights from the event

📌 Stay connected to learn more about UOD’s impactful research and academic achievements at www.uod.ac

📝 Reported by:

• Fatima Mahmood Ali
• Nizheen A. Ali

📸 Photography by: Reyadh Ramadhan Ameen 

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