Yilikal Melak Assaye is an Associate Researcher at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Fogera National Rice Research and Training Center, with specialization in Seed Science and Technology (MSc). He is a passionate academic and researcher with strong expertise in seed physiology, biochemistry, seed enhancement, and seed engineering, particularly focusing on rice. He has over a decade of professional experience in seed research, extension services, and early generation seed production. Yilikal has published research in reputable peer-reviewed journals and actively contributes as a journal reviewer. His work aims to improve seed quality, storability, and nutritional value to strengthen Ethiopia’s rice seed system.