Seven Bangladeshi scientists elected fellows of prestigious global academy
Researchers recognized for contributions across agriculture, environmental science, medicine and technology, with one scientist receiving additional international honor
DHAKA, Bangladesh (MNTV) — Seven Bangladeshi scientists have been elected fellows of the World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) for 2027, earning international recognition for groundbreaking research ranging from climate-resilient agriculture and cancer treatment to biodegradable alternatives to plastic.
Bangladesh secured seven of the 15 fellowships awarded to researchers from countries classified by the academy as lagging in science and technology, accounting for nearly 47% of that category.
According to the academy’s announcement on Nov. 6, a total of 87 scientists were elected worldwide, including 29 women and 77 researchers from the Global South. The new fellows will officially join the academy on Jan. 1, 2027.
Among the Bangladeshi scientists, Professor Kamrun Nahar of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University received double recognition, securing both a fellowship and the prestigious TWAS-Fayzah M Al-Kharafi Award for her contributions to agricultural and environmental sciences.
Nahar, ranked among the world’s top 2% of scientists in the Stanford–Elsevier rankings, has conducted extensive research on protecting crops against drought, salinity and other environmental stresses. Her work has received more than 24,000 academic citations.
Dr. Mohammad Abdul Latif, director of the Rice Research Center at Supreme Seed Company, was recognized for advancing rice production and disease resistance. He contributed to developing 25 high-yielding rice varieties, including zinc-enriched BRRI dhan100, helping strengthen food security.
Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Khan, scientific adviser at Ecotex Ltd., earned recognition for inventing Sonali Bag, a biodegradable alternative to conventional plastic bags made from jute cellulose. His innovations in sustainable materials have contributed to efforts to combat plastic pollution.
Professor Kazi Matin Uddin Ahmed of the University of Dhaka was selected for his research on groundwater resources, arsenic contamination and water security. His four decades of scientific work have contributed to understanding environmental threats affecting drinking water.
Professor Mohammad Abdur Rashid, a retired pharmaceutical chemistry professor at the University of Dhaka, was recognized for identifying more than 200 biologically active compounds, including 70 previously unknown molecules. His discoveries include compounds with potential applications in cancer and HIV treatment.
Professor Mohammad Sohel Rahman of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) earned recognition for contributions to computer science, artificial intelligence and medical image analysis.
Another BUET researcher, Professor AKM Akhtar Hossain, was elected for his work in physics, including superconductors, nanotechnology and advanced materials with potential applications in renewable energy.
All seven researchers are members of the Bangladesh Academy of Sciences.
The latest selections highlight Bangladesh’s expanding scientific influence, particularly in research addressing food insecurity, environmental degradation, public health and technological development.
The academy’s 2027 fellowship class will bring its total membership to 1,510 scientists worldwide.
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