Professor at University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin
Professor Lamine Saïd Baba-Moussa is an internationally recognized scholar in biochemistry, molecular biology, and microbiology, with a distinguished career in advancing science and education in Africa and beyond. As Director of the Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Typing in Microbiology, he has pioneered impactful research on plant growth-promoting microorganisms, microbial biostimulants, and food safety. With over 500 publications, more than 45 successfully supervised doctoral theses, and leadership in multiple academic and scientific bodies, he stands as a pillar of excellence in higher education and research. His commitment to science, mentorship, and innovation has positioned him as a leading voice in sustainable agriculture, microbiology, and public health.
Professional Profile
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Education
Professor Baba-Moussa holds a doctoral degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Microbiology, which he obtained through a joint program between the University of Strasbourg in France and the University of Abomey-Calavi in Benin. This strong international training provided him with a foundation to bridge research collaboration across continents. His education integrated rigorous molecular biology approaches with applied microbiology, equipping him to address both fundamental and practical challenges in food safety, infectious diseases, and sustainable agriculture. His solid academic background became the cornerstone of his subsequent research leadership and professional achievements.
Experience
Throughout his career, Professor Baba-Moussa has held pivotal roles in academic leadership, research management, and capacity building. He has served as Head of the Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology at the Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, coordinated postgraduate training in biochemistry and microbiology, and led doctoral programs that trained future generations of African scientists. As Director of the Laboratory of Biology and Molecular Typing in Microbiology, he has overseen numerous projects addressing microbial biodiversity, plant growth promotion, and foodborne pathogens. He also served as Deputy Director and later Interim Director of the Doctoral School of Life and Earth Sciences at the University of Abomey-Calavi, where he reinforced interdisciplinary research and doctoral training. His influence extends beyond his home institution, as he has been an expert evaluator for the African and Malagasy Council for Higher Education (CAMES), and is currently President of its Natural Sciences and Agronomy Technical Committee.
Research Focus
Professor Baba-Moussa’s research integrates microbiology, molecular biology, and biotechnology to address challenges in health, agriculture, and food safety. His primary focus lies in the use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi as biofertilizers and biostimulants to improve soil fertility and crop productivity, promoting sustainable agriculture across Africa. He has coordinated projects on the efficacy of microbial inoculants for maize cultivation, evaluation of biofertilizers in local farming systems, and development of low-cost microbial technologies for farmers. Additionally, his work has explored antimicrobial resistance, pathogenic microorganisms, and bioactive compounds from medicinal plants, contributing to the fight against infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance. By combining applied and fundamental science, he has created pathways that benefit both the scientific community and agricultural stakeholders.
Awards and Honors
Professor Baba-Moussa has received several honors recognizing his exceptional contributions. He was named Chevalier of the National Order of Merit of Benin, a distinction that highlights his impact on national scientific advancement. His academic excellence is also recognized by CAMES, where he was promoted through its ranks to become a full Professor of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Microbiology. His election as President of the CAMES Technical Committee for Natural Sciences and Agronomy reflects the trust placed in him to shape scientific policy and evaluation at the continental level. These distinctions affirm his leadership and the high esteem in which he is held in Africa and internationally.
Publication Top Notes
Title: Phytochemical composition of Cymbopogon citratus and Eucalyptus citriodora essential oils and their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties on Wistar rats
Authors: JD Gbenou, JF Ahounou, HB Akakpo, A Laleye, E Yayi, F Gbaguidi, L Baba-Moussa, et al.
Summary: Study identified bioactive compounds in essential oils and demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in experimental rats.
Title: The structure of a Staphylococcus aureus leucocidin component (LukF-PV) reveals the fold of the water-soluble species of a family of transmembrane pore-forming toxins
Authors: JD Pédelacq, L Maveyraud, G Prévost, L Baba-Moussa, A González, et al.
Summary: Structural analysis clarified the folding and mechanism of pore-forming toxins, advancing understanding of Staphylococcus aureus virulence factors.
Title: Effect of different plant growth promoting rhizobacteria on maize seed germination and seedling development
Authors: PA Noumavo, E Kochoni, YO Didagbé, A Adjanohoun, M Allagbé, L Baba-Moussa, et al.
Summary: Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria significantly enhanced maize seed germination, seedling vigor, and early development in controlled experiments.
Title: Staphylococcus aureus mobile genetic elements
Authors: B Alibayov, L Baba-Moussa, H Sina, K Zdeňková, K Demnerová
Summary: Review detailed the diversity and role of mobile genetic elements in antibiotic resistance and virulence of Staphylococcus aureus.
Title: Synergistic effects of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria and chitosan on in vitro seed germination, greenhouse growth, and nutrient uptake of maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: NA Agbodjato, PA Noumavo, A Adjanohoun, L Agbessi, L Baba-Moussa
Summary: Combined rhizobacteria and chitosan treatments improved maize germination, greenhouse growth, and nutrient uptake efficiency.
Conclusion
Professor Lamine Saïd Baba-Moussa exemplifies the highest standards of academic excellence, scientific leadership, and societal impact. His dedication to advancing microbiology and molecular biology has shaped innovative solutions for pressing global challenges, particularly in agriculture, food safety, and health. As a mentor, he has trained generations of scientists who now contribute across Africa and internationally. As a researcher, he has produced a prolific body of work that bridges fundamental science with applied benefits. As a leader, his contributions to CAMES and national scientific institutions underscore his commitment to strengthening higher education and research governance. These achievements collectively position him as a highly deserving candidate for international recognition and award honors.