Biography

Durbek Khalikov is a potato breeder scientist based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. More than 20 years of experience potato and sweetpotato Innovative Technologies: potato and sweet potato research and tomato growing, in depth knowledge of potato selection and seed production; · Proven experience in management technologies to enhance use efficiency, resilience, cost-effectiveness, and productivity of smallholder farms in stress-prone Central Asian environments; · Experienced in working with public and private institutions from Central Asian countries in the area of Agriculture and Rural Development, in close cooperation with donor funding agencies (USAID, GIZ, UNDP, and German Agro-Action); · Extensive communication, organisational, writing and analytical skills acquired as international expert in three different countries (Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan); Skilled in plant science and breeding techniques, he transitioned to the International Potato Center in 2023, where he leads potato breeding innovations for Uzbekistan. Durbek is dedicated to applying his diverse skills on a global scale, contributing to sustainable agriculture, and addressing challenges in crop improvement of potato and sweetpotato. His professional interests include potato and sweet potato breeding under abiotic stress, biotechnology and seed production.