Dr. Johnson Kalu Ndukwe | Waste Valorization | Research Excellence Award
Dr. Johnson Kalu Ndukwe | UNESCO INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY, NSUKKA | Nigeria
Dr. Johnson Kalu Ndukwe is a dynamic and impactful researcher whose work spans microbial biotechnology, bioenergy systems, sustainable bioprocessing, and bioactive compound discovery. His research portfolio demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing global challenges in renewable energy, health, and industrial biotechnology through innovative microbial approaches. A key area of his contribution lies in understanding weak acid-induced stress tolerance mechanisms in yeasts, offering valuable insights for enhancing bioethanol production from lignocellulosic biomass and improving biofuel process efficiency. He has also made notable advancements in anaerobic digestion and waste-to-energy systems, contributing to effective strategies for managing digester dysfunction and improving the stability of anaerobic treatment processes. His work on microalgae-derived bioactive compounds highlights their therapeutic potential against human disease conditions, emphasizing the relevance of natural microbial products in health and wellness. Additionally, his research on microbial-derived glycolipids supports sustainable alternatives for biomedical and personal care formulations, addressing both environmental and economic considerations for commercialization. Dr. Ndukwe has further enriched the field through studies on indigenous probiotic beverages such as Kunu, promoting diet diversification and exploring the functional benefits of traditional fermented foods. His interdisciplinary contributions are published in reputable journals, with growing citations reflecting his influence in microbial science, renewable energy, and applied biotechnology. Collectively, his body of work demonstrates consistent innovation, application-driven research, and a strong alignment with global sustainability and public health priorities, positioning him as a significant contributor to contemporary scientific advancement in microbial and bioprocess research.
Featured Publications
Eze, C. N., Onyejiaka, C. K., Ihim, S. A., Ayoka, T. O., Aduba, C. C., Ndukwe, J. K., … (2023). Bioactive compounds by microalgae and potentials for the management of some human disease conditions. AIMS Microbiology, 9(1), 55–69.
Ndukwe, J. K., Aliyu, G. O., Onwosi, C. O., Chukwu, K. O., & Ezugworie, F. N. (2020). Mechanisms of weak acid-induced stress tolerance in yeasts: Prospects for improved bioethanol production from lignocellulosic biomass. Process Biochemistry, 90, 118–130.
Onwosi, C. O., Eke, I. E., Igbokwe, V. C., Odimba, J. N., Ndukwe, J. K., Chukwu, K. O., … (2019). Towards effective management of digester dysfunction during anaerobic treatment processes. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 116, 109424.
Ndukwe, J. K., Aduba, C. C., Ughamba, K. T., Chukwu, K. O., Eze, C. N., Nwaiwu, O., … (2023). Diet diversification and priming with Kunu: An indigenous probiotic cereal-based non-alcoholic beverage in Nigeria. Beverages, 9(1), 14.
Onwosi, C. O., Aliyu, G. O., Onu, C. J., Chukwu, K. O., Ndukwe, J. K., & Igbokwe, V. C. (2021). Microbial-derived glycolipids in the sustainable formulation of biomedical and personal care products: A consideration of the process economics towards commercialization. Process Biochemistry, 100, 124–139.