UOD - Marth 24th, 2025 - University Press Office (UNPO) | In a groundbreaking academic achievement that blends cutting-edge genetics with real-world agricultural impact, PhD candidate Ms. Sabrya Jarjees Zuber from the Department of Biology, College of Science at the University of Duhok (UOD), has successfully defended her doctoral dissertation titled:

🧬 “Genetic Diversity in Pear (Pyrus communis L) Genotyping and Detection of Resistance Gene for Fire Blight Disease in Kurdistan Region/Iraq”

Her research not only enriches the scientific community's understanding of pear tree genetics but also holds practical value in combating the destructive fire blight disease threatening orchards across the Kurdistan Region and beyond.

🎓 A Milestone Defense Session The defense took place on Sunday, March 24, 2025, at the College of Science Seminar Hall. It was attended by an esteemed academic committee, highlighting the scholarly significance of this contribution.

👩‍🏫 Thesis Supervision & Academic Panel:

• Asst. Prof. Dr. Avesta Mohammed Ali – Supervisor & Member (University of Duhok)
• Prof. Dr. Jaladet M.Salih – Chair (University of Duhok)
• Prof. Dr. Gharbia Hrmiz Danial – Member (University of Duhok)
• Prof. Dr. Diaa Ayoub Ibrahim – Member (University of Duhok)
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Yousif Mohammed Fattah – Member (University of Zakho)
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Ali Muhammad Noori – Member (University of Kirkuk)

🍐 Bridging Genetics and Agricultural Resilience Ms. Zuber’s research focuse d on assessing genetic diversity among local pear genotypes in the Kurdistan Region and identifying resistance genes related to Erwinia amylovora—the bacterial agent responsible for fire blight. This disease poses a significant threat to global pome fruit production, causing extensive economic losses.

Her work contributes to: 

• Strengthening crop resilience through targeted breeding programs
• Informing orchard management with genetic insights
• Enhancing biodiversity preservation of regional cultivars
• Supporting sustainable agriculture in Iraq

🌱 Toward a Greener, More Secure Future This study is a direct response to the growing climate and pathogen pressures faced by regional agriculture. By exploring the genetic arsenal of native pear varieties, the research lays the foundation for: 

• Developing disease-resistant fruit cultivars
• Reducing dependence on chemical treatments
• Supporting food security initiatives
• Promoting eco-conscious farming in alignment with the SDGs

📊 Strategic Alignment with UOD’s Research Vision The University of Duhok, under its 2023–2038 Strategic Plan, is committed to advancing research that directly benefits the community, aligns with environmental sustainability, and strengthens global academic collaborations. Ms. Zuber’s research reflects the university’s mission to produce knowledge that matters—scientifically rigorous and socially impactful.

📚 What’s Next? The findings are set to be published in peer-reviewed agricultural science journals and presented at international conferences focusing on plant pathology, genetics, and sustainable development.

By integrating genomics, plant science, and environmental stewardship, this research positions UOD as a regional leader in agricultural innovation, preparing a new generation of scholars ready to solve tomorrow’s food security challenges.

📢 Meta Keywords: Pear Genetic Diversity in Kurdistan

• Fire Blight Resistance in Iraq
• UOD PhD Research in Plant Pathology
• Sustainable Agriculture in the Middle East
• University of Duhok Biology Department Research

📍 UOD Media | March 24, 2025
🌐 Visit www.uod.ac for more on UOD’s research breakthroughs in agricultural and biological sciences.

• 📍 University of Duhok – College of Science
• 📸 Photography: Reyadh Ramadhan Ameen
• 📝 Reported by: Fatima Mahmood Ali & Nizheen A. Ali

Explore Photo of this Event