Ahmed Mustafa

Professor Ahmed Mustafa holds a faculty position at Purdue University Fort Wayne's Department of Biological Sciences, where he also directs the Life Sciences Resource Center. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of New Brunswick, Canada, and additional credentials in university teaching and science education. His research focuses on stress and immunity in aquatic organisms, biotechnology-driven disease prevention, and the application of natural products in aquaculture. He is a prolific author of peer-reviewed articles and textbooks, and serves as an editorial board member for multiple journals.

• Educational Background:
  • B.Sc. (Honors) and M.Sc. in Biological Sciences – Dhaka University, Bangladesh
  • Candidatus Magisterri (M.Ed.) – University of Bergen, Norway
  • Ph.D. in Aquatic Biology – University of New Brunswick, Canada
  • Diploma in University Teaching – University of New Brunswick, Canada

Professor Mustafa’s research integrates biotechnology and natural compounds to improve fish health and aquaculture productivity. His work emphasizes stress mitigation, immune modulation, and nutraceutical applications in species like Nile tilapia and Pacific white shrimp. He actively involves students in research, many of whom have secured grants, presented at conferences, and co-authored publications.

His articles span topics such as dietary supplements for fish immune systems, the physiological effects of CBD, and the antibacterial properties of marine organisms. His recent work explores the potential of Gynura procumbens and elderberry extracts in aquaculture.

• Awards:
  • Indiana Academy of Science Fellow (2022)
  • Purdue Fort Wayne’s Featured Faculty for Excellence in Teaching (2018)
  • Teacher of the Year (2007) and Students’ Choice Award (2008)

As an educator, he teaches courses in physiology, pharmacology, and addiction biology, integrating civic engagement through initiatives like the SENCER model course. He mentors students in the Bangladesh Students’ Association and Tri-Beta Biological Honor Society, and serves as Vice President of Phi Kappa Phi.

His lab, Mustafa Lab, collaborates on projects such as mobile aquaponics systems and studies stress modulation in fish. Current students include postdoctoral fellows and graduate researchers exploring topics like CBD’s effects on tilapia and zinc nanoparticle applications in aquaculture.