Agricultural Water Management Researcher at Ethiopia Institute Of Agricultural Research, Melkassa Agricultural Research Center, Ethiopia
Tatek Wondimu Negash is a highly skilled water resource and irrigation engineer with over eight years of research experience in agricultural water management, hydrology, land use, and climate change. Holding a BSc in Water Resources and Irrigation Engineering and an MPhil in Irrigation and Drainage Engineering, his work focuses on optimizing irrigation efficiency and improving water use in semi-arid regions. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications on irrigation water allocation, evapotranspiration, and watershed hydrology, demonstrating his expertise in hydrological modeling and data analysis using tools like ArcGIS, ArcSWAT, and AquaCrop. As a researcher at the Ethiopia Institute of Agricultural Research, he collaborates with farmers, government agencies, and research institutions to implement sustainable irrigation practices. His contributions have earned him recognition, including a prestigious Master’s Scholarship from WACWISA, Ghana, and an Editorial Board membership for the International Analytical Chemistry Awards. With strong technical skills, stakeholder engagement experience, and a commitment to advancing water resource management, Tatek stands out as a leading researcher in his field.
Professional Profile
Education
Tatek Wondimu Negash holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Water Resources and Irrigation Engineering from Hawassa University, Ethiopia, where he developed a strong foundation in agricultural water management and irrigation system design. He further advanced his expertise by earning a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Irrigation and Drainage Engineering from the University for Development Studies in Ghana. His master’s research focused on the impact of land use and land cover change on watershed hydrology, reflecting his deep interest in sustainable water resource management. Throughout his academic journey, he has acquired specialized training in hydrological modeling, irrigation technologies, and integrated water resource management, enhancing his skills in data analysis and research methodologies. His education, combined with professional development courses in Python, Jupyter, and data analysis, has equipped him with the technical proficiency needed for high-impact research
Professional Experience
Tatek Wondimu Negash is an experienced water resource and irrigation engineer and researcher at the Ethiopia Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), Melkassa Agricultural Research Center. With over eight years of professional experience, he has been actively involved in developing research proposals and conducting studies on agricultural water management, hydrology, land use, and climate change. His work focuses on optimizing irrigation efficiency by evaluating and demonstrating appropriate irrigation technologies, determining crop water requirements, and improving irrigation scheduling. Tatek has played a key role in designing and supervising various irrigation projects, including sprinkler, drip, and surface irrigation systems, while also providing technical support for the construction of irrigation canals, drainage systems, and water harvesting structures. Additionally, he has extensive experience in hydrological modeling and data analysis, utilizing advanced tools such as ArcGIS, ArcSWAT, DSSAT, and AquaCrop to enhance water management practices. Beyond research, he collaborates with farmers, government agencies, and research institutions, facilitating training programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives to promote sustainable agricultural water use. His work contributes significantly to improving irrigation strategies and water conservation efforts in Ethiopia and beyond.
Research Interest
Tatek Wondimu Negash’s research interests revolve around agricultural water management, hydrology, land use, and climate change, with a strong focus on optimizing irrigation efficiency and sustainable water resource utilization. He is particularly interested in studying soil-water-plant relationships to determine crop water requirements, improve irrigation scheduling, and enhance water use efficiency in semi-arid regions. His work also explores the impact of land use and land cover changes on watershed hydrology, employing advanced hydrological modeling techniques using tools such as ArcGIS, ArcSWAT, DSSAT, and AquaCrop. Additionally, he is engaged in developing innovative irrigation technologies and management practices that support smallholder farmers and large-scale irrigation projects. Through his research, Tatek aims to contribute to climate-resilient agricultural practices by integrating data-driven solutions and evidence-based decision-making for sustainable water resource management. His interdisciplinary approach bridges the gap between scientific research and practical applications, ensuring that his findings have a tangible impact on agricultural productivity and water conservation.
Award and Honor
Tatek Wondimu Negash has received notable awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to agricultural water management and irrigation research. He was awarded the Master’s Scholarship by the West Africa Center for Water, Irrigation, and Sustainable Agriculture (WACWISA), Ghana, funded by the World Bank under the African Centre of Excellence Impact (ACE Impact) Project, which supported his postgraduate studies in irrigation and drainage engineering. His research excellence has also earned him a place on the Editorial Board of the International Analytical Chemistry Awards (2025), recognizing his expertise in scientific research and analysis. Additionally, he has participated in prestigious professional development programs, including specialized training in integrated water resources management, eco-hydrology, and canal performance improvement conducted by international institutions. These achievements highlight his dedication to advancing water resource management and underscore his growing influence in the field of irrigation engineering and hydrological research.
Conclusion
Tatek Wondimu Negash is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his extensive research contributions, technical expertise, and impact on agricultural water management. His peer-reviewed publications, irrigation research, modeling expertise, and stakeholder engagement highlight his suitability. While he could enhance his research profile with more international collaborations, higher citation impact, and independent research funding, his overall achievements make him a worthy contender for the award.
Publications Top Noted
Title: Optimal Irrigation Water Allocation for Enhanced Productivity of Haricot Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) and Economic Gain: An Experiment Conducted in the Semi-Arid Area of Ethiopia
Authors:
- Tatek Wondimu Negash (T.W. Negash)
- Abera Tesfaye Tefera (A.T. Tefera)
- Gobena Dirirsa Bayisa (G.D. Bayisa)
- Tigist Damtew Worku (T.D. Worku)
- Aynalem Gurms (A. Gurms)
Year: 2025
Journal: Journal of Agriculture and Food Research
Citations: 0 (as of now)