Ms. Gergana Marchev | Animal Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Agricultural Institute - Shumen, Bulgaria

Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits

Gergana Yordanova Marcheva began her academic journey at Trakia University in Stara Zagora, where she obtained her Master’s degree in Agronomy with a specialization in Livestock Breeding in 2007. This foundation set the stage for her future dedication to the advancement of animal science, particularly in pig breeding and nutrition.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Marcheva’s career within the Agricultural Academy – Sofia, Agricultural Institute - Shumen has been marked by steady progression. She served as an Assistant Professor until 2023, after which she was promoted to Associate Professor. Additionally, she held the role of Director of the Experimental Base of the Agricultural Institute – Shumen from 2021 to 2024. These positions underscore her leadership, commitment to research, and contribution to applied agricultural practices.

Contributions and Research Focus

Her primary area of research is Livestock Breeding (6.3), with a strong emphasis on Pig Breeding and Pig Nutrition. Her research delves into the impacts of dietary changes on pig health and performance, including studies on low-protein intake, feed restriction, brewer's yeast supplementation, and the use of activated charcoal. Her expertise bridges both experimental fieldwork and theoretical frameworks aimed at enhancing animal welfare and productivity.

International Collaborations and Scientific Engagement

Dr. Marcheva is actively involved in collaborative efforts and maintains scientific affiliations. She is a member of the Association for Breeding the Black Pied Breed in Bulgaria since 2014. Although specific international collaborations are not listed, her publication record suggests engagement with a network of scientists across Eastern Europe and beyond.

Impact and Influence

With 49 scientific publications, including 8 in journals with an impact factor, Dr. Marcheva has contributed significant findings to her field. She has received 49 citations overall, with 37 citations in the last five years, reflecting increasing recognition of her work. Her Web of Science H-index is 1, and her research is cataloged under multiple platforms:

• ORCID: 0000-0001-6671-0249

• Researcher ID: EHD-1317-2022

• Scopus ID: 56925450000

Academic Cites – Selected Publications

1. The Effects of a Low Protein Intake on the Growth and Blood Parameters of Weaning Pigs – Animal Science Papers and Reports, 2024.

2. Effect of Feed Restriction and Low Protein Level on the Performance of Growing Pigs – Trakia Journal of Sciences, 2023.

3. Effect of the Use of Autolyzed Brewer’s Yeast in Compound Feeds for Weaned Pigs – Животновъдни науки, 2023.

4. Effect of Addition of Activated Charcoal on the Nutrient Digestibility in Fattening Pigs – Животновъдни науки, 2022.

5. Effect of Activated Charcoal on Blood Parameters in Fattening Pigs – Животновъдни науки, 2022.

6. Spirulina Supplementation Affects Folliculogenesis in Gilts – Journal of Applied Phycology, 2018.

Technical and Research Skills

Dr. Marcheva’s technical strengths lie in experimental animal feeding trials, nutrient analysis, and physiological parameter assessments. She has experience designing controlled studies and evaluating the influence of biologically active supplements and alternative nutritional strategies on animal growth and welfare.

Teaching and Leadership Experience

As part of her academic role, she likely contributes to mentorship, seminars, and practical training for students and junior researchers, especially within the Agricultural Institute – Shumen. Her tenure as Director of the Experimental Base highlights her administrative capabilities and oversight of experimental design and animal husbandry protocols.

Research Projects and Funding Participation

In the last five years, she has participated in several funded projects:

• Ж - 182 (2023–2025): Forecasting productivity through heterozygosity and nutritional influence (Coordinator: Prof. DSc. Radka Nedeva) – Running.

• Ж - 162 (2022): Genetic diversity and biologically active feeding (Coordinators: Prof. Apostolov & Prof. Nedeva) – Completed.

• Ж - 132 (2017–2019): Animal selection methods focused on physiology and welfare (Coordinators: Prof. Apostolov & Prof. Nedeva) – Completed.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Gergana Yordanova Marcheva’s contributions to animal nutrition and livestock breeding research are crucial for the modernization of agricultural practices in Bulgaria and Eastern Europe. Her work supports not only improved productivity in farm animals but also aligns with evolving global standards for animal welfare and sustainable farming. Her continuing role in research, leadership, and education ensures that her influence will extend well into the future.

 Selected Publication

• Title: Effect of herbal supplements (Nettle and rosehip) on the sperm quality in Danube White breed boars
  Authors: Gergana Yordanova, Danail Kanev, Yordan Marchev, Radka Nedeva, Todorka Nikolova, Nadezhda Palova
  Journal: Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science
  Year: 2020

• Title: Effect of the addition of Spirulina platensis on the carcass traits, chemical composition and physical characteristics of M. Longissimus dorsi in fattening pigs
  Authors: Gergana Yordanova, Jordan Nakev, Radka Nedeva, Yordan Marchev, Teodora Popova, Elena Kistanova, Almantas Simkus
  Journal: Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science
  Year: 2016

• Title: Lipid profile of M. Longissimus dorsi in response to dietary Spirulina platensis supplementation in pigs
  Authors: Gergana Yordanova, Teodora Popova, Jordan Nakev, Radka Nedeva, Yordan Marchev, Elena Kistanova, Almantas Shimkus
  Journal: Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science
  Year: 2015