Academic Staff

June 30, 2026, 9:55 a.m.
Sabrya Jarjees Zuber (PhD)
Lecturer
Lecturer in Plant Molecular biology

Scientific Research Center
College of Science
University of Duhok

PhD in Plant Molecular Biology, College of Science, University of Duhok (2024)

Master's in Plant Biotechnology (2014)

BSc in Plant Biology, College of Agriculture, University of Duhok (2001)

The Teaching experience and philosophy are listed below:

  1. I see taxonomy not as a subject of rote memorization but as a framework that strengthens analytical and critical thinking skills. My teaching philosophy incorporates evolutionary relationships, key diagnostic characteristics, and practical plant identification. Through a combination of field-based observations and modern molecular insights, I guide students to value biodiversity and recognize taxonomy as an evolving discipline that connects morphology, evolutionary history, and ecological interactions.
  2. My teaching is based on the idea that understanding structure is essential for understanding function. In plant anatomy, I help students examine tissues, organs, and cellular features as the basis for physiological and ecological processes. I emphasize practical microscopy, comparative observation, and scientific drawing to strengthen visual memory and analytical thinking.
  3. In teaching pollution, I emphasize a broad understanding of all major types—air, water, soil, noise, and food contamination. My approach aims to help students recognize how pollution affects ecosystems, human health, and food chains. Through comparative case studies and real-world examples, I guide students to understand sources of pollution, patterns of environmental impact, and the importance of sustainable solutions.
  4. My core teaching philosophy in general botany is to ignite students’ curiosity and deepen their engagement with the diversity and complexity of the plant world. I encourage them to see botany as an integrated science that connects cellular structure, physiology, ecology, evolution, and environmental interactions. By guiding students to explore how plants grow, adapt, and shape ecosystems, I help them appreciate the essential role of plants in sustaining life on Earth. Through active learning, hands-on observation, and real-world botanical examples, I support students in developing a solid and comprehensive foundation that equips them for advanced studies in plant sciences, biotechnology, ecology, and related disciplines.
  5. My core teaching philosophy in ecology is to help students understand the fundamental relationships that connect organisms to each other and to their environment. I aim to cultivate a scientific mindset that encourages curiosity, observation, and critical analysis of ecological patterns and processes. By integrating field-based learning, data interpretation, and real-world environmental examples, I guide students to recognize the complexity of ecosystems and the importance of ecological balance. My goal is to build a strong conceptual foundation that prepares students to address environmental challenges and pursue advanced studies in ecological and environmental sciences.

Research

  1. Ali, A. M., Zubair, S. J., Sinjare, D. K., & Jubrael, J. M. (2015). Fingerprinting a Number of Prunus Persica Varieties Cultivated In Duhok Province Using Srap Markers. Science Journal of University of Zakho, 3(2), 199-204.Genetic diversity among Walnuts ( Juglans regia ) population in Kurdistan Region – Iraq using AFLP-PCR.
  2. Sabrya, S. J., Ali, A. M., & Jubrael, J. M. (2016). Genetic variation assessment of some Prunus species using SRAP markers. Science Journal of University of Zakho, 4(2), 173-176.
  3. Ali, A. M., Zeber, S. J., Hussein, A. E., & Sulaiman, R. S. (2025). Identification of some Variety of Plum varieties (Prunus domestica) using SRAP markers in Duhok region-Kurdistan\Iraq. Cuestiones de Fisioterapia, 54(4), 7467-7473.
  4. Zuber, S. J., & Ali, A. M. (2024). AFLP Analysis of Genetic Diversity Evaluation in Pear (Pyrus communis L.) in Kurdistan Region/Iraq. Egyptian Academic Journal of Biological Sciences, G. Microbiology, 16(2), 151-164.
  5. Sinjare, D. Y., Zubair, S. J., Ali, A. M., & Jubrael, J. M. (2016). Application of random amplified polymorphic DNA markers for genetic diversity assessment of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cultivars in Duhok Governorate–Kurdistan of Iraq. ARO-The Scientific Journal of Koya University, 4(2), 43-46.
  6. Ali, A. M., Zeber, S. J., Hussein, A. E., & Sulaiman, R. S. (2025). Identification of some Variety of Plum varieties (Prunus domestica) using SRAP markers in Duhok region-Kurdistan\Iraq. Cuestiones de Fisioterapia, 54(4), 7467-7473.
  7. Zuber, S. J., & Ali, A. M. (2025). Molecular Analyses to Identify Gene Resistance in Pear (Pyrus Communis) Cultivars for The Fire Blight Diseases in Iraqi Kurdistan Region. Journal of Kirkuk University for Agricultural Sciences, 16(1).

My research interests can be outlined as follows:

1- Application of Molecular Markers in Evaluating Genetic Diversity of Crop Species
I am particularly interested in using advanced molecular tools to investigate the genetic variability present in cultivated plants. Understanding this diversity is fundamental for improving crop performance and maintaining sustainable agricultural systems.

2- Use of Modern Plant Genetics Tools to Analyze Population Structure and Evolutionary Relationships
Contemporary plant genetics depends heavily on highly informative molecular markers—such as SSRs, SNPs, SRAP, and AFLP—to measure genetic variation both within and among populations. These markers provide detailed insights into domestication history, patterns of gene flow, and the overall genetic architecture of plant species. Such knowledge is crucial for breeding programs, conservation strategies, and the effective management of germplasm resources.

3- DNA Fingerprinting for Cultivar Identification and Protection
I focus on the implementation of DNA-based fingerprinting methods that allow for accurate identification and differentiation of plant cultivars. These techniques play a vital role in preventing mislabeling, ensuring seed purity, resolving disputes related to plant breeders’ rights, and detecting fraudulent practices within the agricultural sector.

4- Genomic and Molecular Approaches for the Conservation of Wild Relatives and Traditional Landraces
Techniques such as microsatellite analysis and whole-genome barcoding have become essential tools for authenticating plant varieties. I am particularly interested in integrating these genomic approaches to safeguard wild germplasm and traditional landraces, which serve as crucial reservoirs of genetic traits important for future crop improvement and resilience.