Ms. Aigerim Khamzina | Animal genetics | Best Researcher Award
Junior Researcher at Kazakh National Agrarian Research University, Kazakhstan
Aigerim Khamzina is a dedicated researcher in the field of animal genetics, data analysis, and biotechnology. With extensive experience in molecular and genetic research, she has significantly contributed to the scientific understanding of livestock genomics in Kazakhstan. Her research focuses on using whole-genome sequencing, bioinformatics tools like R Studio and Plink software, and microbiome ecogenomics to explore genetic variations in native cattle and sheep breeds. Currently, she serves as a junior scientist at the Kazakh-Japanese Innovation Centre, where she is involved in groundbreaking research projects funded by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education.
Profile
Education
Aigerim Khamzina holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Almaty University of Counting Education, awarded in 2013. She pursued her Master’s degree in Biology and Biotechnology through a joint program at the University of Eastern Finland and Kazakh National Agrarian University, graduating in 2016. Continuing her academic journey, she is currently a Ph.D. student at the University of Helsinki, where she focuses on advanced research in animal genetics, applying computational tools for genome analysis.
Experience
Aigerim has accumulated years of experience in molecular genetics and livestock research. Since 2016, she has been a junior scientist at the Laboratory of Green Biotechnology and Cell Engineering at the Kazakh-Japanese Innovation Centre, where she engages in genetic studies of livestock. From 2018 to 2021, she worked as a scientist at the Molecular and Genetic Research Laboratory of the Kazakh Research Institute of Livestock and Fodder Production. Her research experience extends across multiple funded projects, where she has played a vital role in genome sequencing, genetic passport creation, and the study of QTL markers for meat productivity in Kazakh cattle and horse breeds.
Research Interests
Aigerim’s primary research interests lie in animal genetics, bioinformatics, and livestock genomics. Her work involves studying genetic variations in native cattle and sheep breeds, understanding selection signatures, and applying whole-genome sequencing techniques. She also explores the microbiome ecogenomics of Kazakh horse breeds and employs bioinformatics tools like R Studio and Plink software for large-scale genetic data analysis. Her research has practical implications in livestock breeding, conservation, and genetic improvement.
Awards
Aigerim Khamzina has received recognition for her contributions to genetics and biotechnology research. She has been actively involved in multiple government-funded projects and has contributed to the advancement of livestock genomics in Kazakhstan. Her research efforts have been acknowledged through national and institutional grants, supporting her continued work in genome sequencing and genetic analysis of indigenous livestock breeds.
Publications
Khamzina, A., et al. (2025). “Resequencing Composite Kazakh Whiteheaded Cattle: Insights into Ancestral Breed Contributions, Selection Signatures, and Candidate Genetic Variants.” Animals, 15, 385. DOI: 10.3390/ani15030385.
Cited by: Several studies in livestock genetics and genome-wide selection research.
Khamzina, A.K., et al. (2024). “History, Status, and Genetic Characteristics of Native Cattle Breeds from Kazakhstan.” Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genetiki i Selektsii, 28(4), 416–423.
Cited by: Studies on genetic diversity and cattle breeding programs.
Sattarova R., et al. (2023). “Metagenomic Analysis and Identification of Epizootic Strains of Infectious Bovine Keratoconjunctivitis in Kazakhstan.” International Journal of Veterinary Science, 12(6), 822-831.
Cited by: Veterinary and microbiome research articles.
Zhumadillayev, N., et al. (2022). “SNP Genotyping Characterizes the Genome Composition of the New Baisary Fat-Tailed Sheep Breed.” Animals, 12, 1468.
Cited by: Genome-wide studies on sheep genetics.
Pozharskiy A., et al. (2020). “SNP Genotyping and Population Analysis of Five Indigenous Kazakh Sheep Breeds.” Genetics Selection Evolution.
Cited by: Research on sheep breed differentiation and selection.
Khamzina A., et al. (2016). “Copy Number Variations in Eurasian Cattle Breeds.” University of Eastern Finland Digest of Publications.
Cited by: Studies in cattle genomics and genetic variation.
Khamzina A.K., et al. (2022). “Exterior Features of Sheep of Different Directions of Productivity.” Science and Education, West Kazakhstan Agrarian Technical University Journal, No. 3-2 (68).
Cited by: Research in sheep breed characteristics and productivity traits.
Conclusion
Aigerim Khamzina is an influential researcher in the field of animal genetics, specializing in livestock genome sequencing and bioinformatics. With a strong academic background and extensive research experience, she has made significant contributions to understanding genetic diversity in Kazakhstan’s native cattle and sheep breeds. Her work continues to impact genetic conservation efforts, livestock breeding strategies, and genomic research, making her a leading figure in the field of molecular genetics and animal biotechnology.