Dr. Titus Alicai is the Director of Research at the National Crops Resources Research Institute (NaCRRI), Namulonge—an institute of the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), Uganda. A seasoned plant health scientist with over 27 years of experience, Dr. Alicai has led transformative research interventions addressing crop productivity, disease management, and food security.
He holds a PhD in Plant Virology from the University of Greenwich (UK), and MSc and BSc degrees in Agriculture from Makerere University. Before his current appointment, he served as Director of Research at Rwebitaba ZARDI and as a Post-Doctoral Scientist at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, USA.
Dr. Alicai’s research expertise spans plant virology, biotechnology, biosafety, genetic transformation, molecular diagnostics, and seed systems development. He has significantly contributed to the control of major crop disease epidemics, the development of improved crop varieties, and the enhancement of research infrastructure in Uganda.
With over 110 scientific publications, 2 patents, and supervision of more than 35 graduate students, Dr. Alicai is recognized internationally for advancing science-based innovations that strengthen crop resilience and storage stability—critical to sustainable food security. His leadership aligns closely with the IWCSPP’s focus on technological innovation, postharvest protection, and food systems resilience.
He has received several awards, including recognition in the 2023 Annual Agriculture Awards for Outstanding Performance as a Scientist in NARO. Dr. Alicai serves on various national and global scientific boards, including the Community Network for African Vector-Borne Plant Viruses.
Outside research, he enjoys reading, sports (aerobics, walking, football, and golf), music, and comedy.