Dr. Mosharaf Hossain is an Indian agricultural scientist and researcher currently working at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) as Scientist-I, Seed System & Product Management. His work focuses on rice seed systems, technology transfer, varietal deployment, seed quality and improving farmers’ access to better-performing rice varieties. He works across South Asia, including India, Bangladesh and Nepal, with a particular focus on smallholder and marginal farmers, women farmers and seed entrepreneurs through different seed-scaling models.

Dr. Hossain holds postgraduate degrees in Development Economics and Rural Management. He completed his PhD in Agricultural Economics in 2025 from Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan University, Bhubaneswar, India. His research has focused on the efficient use of agricultural resources, crop diversification, climate-related risks, varietal replacement and farmers’ access to quality seed.

Currently based in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, he is engaged in research and development activities aimed at strengthening seed systems and improving the delivery of agricultural innovations to farming communities.

💬 Q&A Section

Question: What are the main areas of your research?

Answer: My research focuses on technology transfer, seed systems, varietal deployment, seed quality and strengthening farmers’ access to improved rice varieties. I have extensive experience in rice research and development, seed multiplication, varietal evaluation, demand assessment and farmer-focused seed-system innovations across South and East Asia.

Question: How does your research contribute to farmers and society?

Answer: My research contributes to improving farmers’ access to high-quality seeds and better-performing, locally adapted rice varieties. This can help increase agricultural productivity, profitability and farmers’ resilience.

By strengthening seed systems and linking research with farmers, seed producers and public and private-sector partners, my work helps accelerate the delivery of innovations from research institutions to farmers.

In the future, this work can contribute to more efficient and inclusive seed systems, climate-resilient agriculture, improved food security and better livelihoods for smallholder farmers.

Question: Could you share one of the most memorable experiences from your research journey?

Answer: One of the most memorable experiences in my research journey has been witnessing how rapidly improved rice varieties can spread when research, farmers and seed systems work together.

In Odisha, India, the spread of varieties such as Binadhan-11 and Swarna Samriddhi demonstrated how farmer demand, peer-to-peer learning and effective seed multiplication can accelerate varietal adoption beyond the reach of conventional dissemination approaches.

I led the diffusion of these two varieties. They now account for around 10 percent of total seed sales in Odisha and have impacted the lives of approximately 300,000 farmers, creating significant economic benefits compared with traditionally grown varieties.

Question: What qualities do you believe a good scientist should have?

Answer: I believe a good scientist should be curious, open-minded, evidence-driven and willing to challenge conventional thinking.

A scientist should also have patience, integrity and the ability to listen to and learn from farmers, colleagues and other stakeholders.

Most importantly, I believe a scientist should be passionate about translating research into practical solutions that create meaningful and lasting benefits for society.

Question: What advice would you give to young students who are interested in science and research?

Answer: My advice to young students is to remain curious, ask meaningful questions and never be afraid to challenge conventional wisdom.

Science is not only about generating knowledge; it is also about solving real problems and creating positive change in society.

Be patient with failure, remain committed to learning and always keep the needs of people and the planet at the heart of your research.

🔗 Profile Link

💼 LinkedIn: Mosharaf Hossain

📇 Contact Information

📧 Email: [email protected]
🏢 Institution: International Rice Research Institute (IRRI)

Dr. Mosharaf Hossain’s work highlights the importance of connecting agricultural research with the practical needs of farmers. His research demonstrates how stronger seed systems, farmer participation and effective technology transfer can help transform scientific innovation into measurable improvements in agricultural productivity and livelihoods.

The biggani.org team wishes Dr. Mosharaf Hossain continued success in his research and future endeavours. We hope his work will inspire young researchers to pursue science that addresses real-world challenges and creates meaningful benefits for society.