I investigate intra-species genetic and phenotypic diversity to better understand fungal performance and identify strains with enhanced productivity and functional properties. This work aims to support the development of innovative and environmentally sustainable food solutions.

I completed my PhD at the University of East Anglia in 2026 as part of the BBSRC-funded Norwich Research Park Doctoral Training Partnership (NRP DTP). My research focused on elucidating the genetic basis of dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) degradation in terrestrial Rhizobia, leading to the production of the climate active gas dimethyl sulfide (DMS). This work challenges challenging the common belief that DMSP cycling is limited to marine environments.

During PhD, I undertook a three-month Professional Internship for PhD Students (PIPS) at Sygnature Discovery, where I contributed to B cell–targeted drug development, gaining valuable experience in translational and industry-oriented research.

Prior to my PhD, I spent eight years as a plant biotechnologist on the national “Basic and Applied Research on Jute (BARJ)” project in Bangladesh. My work integrated plant and microbial biotechnology approaches, contributing to both fundamental and applied research objectives.

I am deeply committed to advancing microbiology, molecular biology, and food biotechnology with a strong interest in bridging fundamental discoveries and their practical applications.

Key publications

• Kabir, S.M.T., Hossain, M.S., Honi, U et al., 2021: Industrial Crops and Products 166(113469) Genome-wide identification and expression profiling of AP2/ERF superfamily genes under stress conditions in dark jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) DOI: 10.1016/j.indcrop.2021.113469.
• Honi, U et al., 2020: BMC Plant Biology 20(306) .Genome-wide identification, characterization and expression profiling of gibberellin metabolism genes in jute  DOI: 10.1186/s12870-020-02512-2.
• Hasan, R., Akhtar, N., Kabir, S.M.T., Honi, U et al., 2020: Scientific Reports 10(5174). Pectinolytic Bacterial Consortia Reduce Jute Retting Period and Improve Fibre Quality DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-61898-z.
• Bashar, K.K., Tareq, M.Z., Amin, M.R., Honi, U el al., 2019: Agronomy 9(2), 43. Phytohormone-Mediated Stomatal Response, Escape and Quiescence Strategies in Plants under Flooding Stress DOI: 10.3390/agronomy9020043.
• Islam, M.S., Saito, J.A., Emdad, E.M., Honi, U et al., 2017: Nature Plants 3, 16223. Comparative genomics of two jute species and insight into fibre biogenesis DOI: 10.1038/nplants.2016.223.