USask researcher receives Emerging Genomics Researcher Award
Dr. Valentyna Klymiuk (PhD) has been recognized for her early career achievements in genomics.
Klymiuk has been selected by GenomePrairie and partner organizations as the recipient of this year’s Emerging Genomics Researcher Award. This distinction recognizes an early‑career academic or research leader whose achievements in genomics are shaping the future of the field in Saskatchewan.
Klymiuk serves as the Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission Applied Genomics and Pre-Breeding Chair at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) and is an assistant professor in USask’s College of Agriculture and Bioresources and Crop Development Centre.
Klymiuk’s research focuses on strengthening wheat’s resistance to major diseases through advanced genetics and next‑generation genomic tools for gene discovery and application in breeding. Originally from Ukraine, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology, a Master of Science in Biology and a PhD in Hydrobiology from the Donetsk National University in Ukraine. She holds a second PhD in plant genetics and genomics from the University of Haifa in Israel.
Her achievements have already earned her several prestigious awards, including the Jeanie Borlaug Laube Women in Triticum Early Career Award (2019) and the Carlotta Award (2022). This latest recognition highlights both her outstanding contributions to wheat research and her continued leadership in advancing genomics in Saskatchewan.