One of the outstanding scholars promoted to full professorship at Hawassa university is Professor Zerihun Girma Woldegebreal of Wondogenet College of Forestry and Natural Resources.
Prof. Zerihun Girma Woldegebreal has a PhD in Tropical Forest Ecology (Wildlife Ecology and Habitat Management) from the University of Buea, Cameroon, awarded in 2016. His doctoral research provided critical insights into the habitat use, diet, and conservation of the Mountain Nyala and Menelik’s Bushbuck in Arsi Mountains National Park.
He had a Master of Science in Ecological and Systematic Zoology from Addis Ababa University in 2009, and a Bachelor of Education in Biology from Mekelle University in 2006.
Prof. Zerihun has been serving Hawassa University since 2009, progressing from Lecturer to his current role as a Professor of Wildlife Ecology and Management . He provided significant academic leadership as the former Head of the Graduate Program at Wondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources (2018–2023) and currently serves as Chairperson of various standing committees at the college.
Beyond the university, Prof. Zerihun contributes to the wider scientific community as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Forestry and Natural Resources and the International Journal of Zoology.
Building on this robust academic foundation, Prof. Zerihun is a distinguished ecologist specializing in the biogeography and conservation of African wildlife. His research investigates habitat use, diet, and population dynamics of threatened species, with a continued emphasis on high-altitude mammals. His work spans diverse taxa—including large mammals, birds, insect pollinators, and medicinal plants—addressing critical ecological themes such as human-wildlife conflict, invasive species, and climate change impacts.
Prof. Zerihun has secured substantial competitive research grants from international bodies, including the JRS Biodiversity Foundation, the Mohamed Bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund, and the International Foundation for Science. His extensive publication record contributes significantly to understanding species distribution and ecosystem resilience in fragmented landscapes.
Prof. Zerihun is a recognized expert in applied conservation, providing high-level consultancy for major development partners including the World Bank, GIZ, NABU and Farm Africa. His technical expertise spans tourism resource mapping for the Sidama Region, Biodiversity conservation projects evaluations, and the development of national wildlife law proclamations and action plans. Furthermore, he developed adult education modules in the areas of Forest and Wildlife Conservation for the Ministry of Education and led participatory environmental assessments and sustainable utilizations of wildlife resources, fostering sustainable livelihoods for communities residing near wildlife reserves.
Congratulations Professor Zerihun!