Architecting
Genetic Progress
Leading the Tropical Poultry Genetic Solutions (TPGS) at ILRI, dedicated to transforming smallholder livestock systems through scientific excellence.
Academic Background
Dr. Tadelle Dessie is a Principal Scientist at ILRI and Adjunct Professor at Bahir Dar University. With over three decades of experience, his work spans from indigenous breed characterization to implementing large-scale genetic improvement programs across Africa and Southeast Asia.
Strategic Leadership
As the project leader for DAGRIS, ACGG, and TPGS, Dr. Dessie coordinates multidisciplinary teams across diverse geographies, managing the sourcing and testing of over 21 tropically adapted improved chicken breeds.
Impact & Mentorship
His commitment to capacity building is evidenced by the supervision of over 30 PhD students and the creation of sustainable business models that have significantly reduced poultry mortality while creating jobs along the value chain.
Scientific Domains
Focusing on transitioning subsistence smallholder poultry production to commercial-oriented and sustainable systems through integrated genetic and value chain approaches.
Tropical Poultry Genetic Solutions (TPGS)
Scaling sustainable poultry systems in the Global South.
ACGG & AsCGG Initiatives
African and Asian Chicken Genetic Gains platforms.
Genetic Characterization
Indigenous breed improvement and conservation strategies.
Capacity Building
Mentoring next-generation animal scientists and researchers.
Value Chain Development
Context-specific business models for breed delivery.
Disease Management
Newcastle disease-resistant breed development.
Pioneering Impact
Driving significant productivity gains (200-300% in body weight) through tropically adapted chicken breeds across Africa and Asia.
Academic Contributions
Genetic Diversity of Ethiopian Indigenous Chickens a Base for Sustainable Genetic Improvement: A Review
African Chicken Genetic Gains: A platform for testing, delivering, and improving chickens for smallholder farmers
Climate-resilient chicken genotypes: Physiological and genetic adaptation mechanisms
Genome-wide analysis reveals the genetic structure and diversity of indigenous Ethiopian sheep populations
Scientific Collaboration
& Academic Inquiries
"Advancing sustainable agriculture requires the synergy of diverse expertise. For research partnerships, keynote requests, or scientific consultation, please reach out directly."
Institutional Hub
International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)
Nairobi Headquarters, Kenya