Head of Animal Production Department, International Center for Livestock Research and Training, Turkey
Dr. Çağrı Melikşah Sakar is an accomplished Agricultural Engineer specializing in animal breeding, genetics, and welfare. He earned his Ph.D. in Animal Breeding and Improvement from Selçuk University in 2019, following his M.Sc. and Bachelor’s studies at the same institution. With over a decade of research experience, Dr. Sakar has significantly contributed to the genetic improvement, welfare evaluation, and conservation of native Turkish breeds, particularly Anatolian Black cattle and Akkaraman sheep. He has successfully led and collaborated on numerous national projects focused on animal welfare, genomic selection, physiological monitoring, and socio-economic impacts of livestock conservation. Dr. Sakar has a strong publication record in reputable international journals and has actively presented his work at national conferences. His recent studies integrate modern animal tracking systems and genetic evaluations, reflecting his forward-thinking approach to sustainable livestock management. Dr. Sakar’s research directly supports the ethical improvement of animal production systems.
Professional Profile
Education
Dr. Çağrı Melikşah Sakar has built a solid academic foundation at Selçuk University, Turkey. He completed his Ph.D. in Animal Breeding and Improvement (2015-2019), where his research focused on genetic markers related to growth in Anatolian Black cattle. His doctoral thesis employed PCR-RFLP methods to explore the relationship between Myostatin, GHR, and Pit-1 genes with growth traits. Dr. Sakar also holds a Master of Science in Animal Breeding and Improvement (2007-2009), where he estimated genetic parameters for birth weights in Brown Swiss cattle. He further expanded his expertise during his Bachelor’s studies in the Faculty of Agriculture (2002-2007). Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Sakar has focused on combining molecular genetics, animal physiology, and applied breeding techniques, which laid the groundwork for his extensive contributions to animal welfare, indigenous breed conservation, and sustainable livestock production in Turkey.
Experience
Dr. Çağrı Melikşah Sakar has extensive research and project management experience, working on over 15 major projects from 2015 to 2024. His roles have ranged from Project Leader to Assistant Researcher in diverse studies focusing on animal welfare, genomic selection, physiological monitoring, and conservation of native Turkish breeds like the Anatolian Black cattle and Akkaraman sheep. Key projects include the Genomic Selection in Simmental Cattle (2022-2024) and Protection of Anatolian Black Cattle (2016-2024), where he contributed significantly to practical conservation and genetic evaluation efforts. He has led innovative animal welfare assessments using resource-based indicators and developed advanced animal tracking systems. Dr. Sakar’s work integrates genetics, behavior monitoring, climate-related studies, and socio-economic evaluations, highlighting his multidisciplinary approach. His leadership in national animal welfare projects has contributed to elevating animal production standards and promoting sustainable livestock systems in Turkey.
Research Focus
Dr. Çağrı Melikşah Sakar’s primary research focuses on animal breeding, welfare assessment, genetic improvement, and indigenous breed conservation. He is particularly committed to improving the health, productivity, and sustainability of native Turkish livestock such as Anatolian Black cattle, Akkaraman sheep, and Angora goats. His studies emphasize the genetic evaluation of growth traits, animal welfare monitoring using behavior-based and resource-based indicators, climate impact assessments, and real-time animal tracking systems. Dr. Sakar is also involved in socio-economic studies assessing the benefits of local breed conservation for rural communities. Recently, he has expanded his research into the application of electronic sensors for behavior tracking and welfare analysis, demonstrating his commitment to integrating technology with traditional animal science. His work supports the ethical development of livestock farming, promoting animal-friendly practices that improve both animal well-being and productivity. His research has practical applications for policymakers, farmers, and the scientific community.
Publication Top Notes
Title: Determination of the relationship between Anatolian black cattle growth properties and myostatin, GHR and Pit-1 gene
Authors: ÇM Sakar, U Zülkadir
Journal: Animal Biotechnology 33 (3), 536-545
Year: 2022 | Cited by: 15
Summary: This study explores genetic associations affecting growth in Anatolian Black cattle, offering critical insights into improving breed performance through targeted genetic selection.
Title: Prediction of Live Weight from Chest Girth From Birth to 12 Months of Age in Yerli Kara Cattle
Authors: ÇM Sakar, İ Ünal, A Okuroğlu, Mİ Coşkun, U Zülkadir
Journal: Black Sea Journal of Agriculture 3 (3), 200-204
Year: 2020 | Cited by: 14
Summary: The paper provides predictive equations for live weight estimation using chest girth, supporting practical weight management in cattle farming.
Title: Development of Akkaraman lambs in Cankiri region from birth to 120 days
Authors: ÇM Sakar, A Erişek
Journal: Black Sea Journal of Agriculture 2 (1), 16-20
Year: 2019 | Cited by: 12
Summary: The research focuses on growth rates in Akkaraman lambs under local farming conditions, offering valuable data for genetic improvement progra
Title: The Effect of Maternal Age on Some Body Measurements in Anatolian Black Calves
Authors: İ Ünal, Hİ Tuncer, ÇM Sakar, E Ünay
Journal: Black Sea Journal of Agriculture 2 (1), 47-50
Year: 2019 | Cited by: 11
Summary: This study evaluates how maternal age influences calf body measurements, providing insights into reproductive management.
Title: Determination of growth characteristics of Akkaraman lambs raised in Çankırı province
Authors: ÇM Sakar, İ Ünal
Journal: Journal of Animal Production 62 (1), 61-66
Year: 2021 | Cited by: 10
Summary: A detailed analysis of growth trends in Akkaraman lambs, contributing to the optimization of sheep breeding strategies.
Conclusion
Dr. Çağrı Melikşah Sakar presents a strong candidacy for the Best Researcher Award due to his extensive contributions to animal welfare, genetic improvement, and livestock sustainability, particularly with a focus on native Turkish breeds. His leadership in national projects, robust publication record, and practical applications of his research demonstrate his significant impact on the field. With increased international collaboration and outreach, his work holds potential for even greater global influence.