By School of Environment, Resources and Development
17 June 2025: Jaynos R. Cortes, a PhD candidate in Aquaculture and Aquatic Resources Management (AARM) at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), under the supervision of Dr. Krishna R. Salin, has been awarded the prestigious Yang Yi Young Scientist Fellowship by the Asian Fisheries Society (AFS) based in Malaysia. The fellowship recognizes Mr. Cortes’s outstanding contributions to aquaculture research has done at AIT as part of his doctoral study.
Established in memory of the late Prof. Yang Yi, former AFS president and a prominent aquaculture scientist, the fellowship supports promising early-career scientists across the Asia-Pacific to present their research at key international forums.
Thanks to the fellowship, Mr. Cortes participated in the 14 th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (AFAF) held from February 12–15, 2025, in New Delhi, India, where he presented his research on: “Effects of Dietary L-Tryptophan Supplementation on Growth, Health, and Metabolism of All-Male Giant Freshwater Prawns (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) during Nursery-Rearing”.
His study offered critical insights into enhancing protein synthesis, immune response, and feed efficiency—contributing valuable strategies for improving prawn aquaculture performance and sustainability. “It was an incredible honor to receive this fellowship and to share my research with leading global experts,” said Mr. Cortes. “This recognition has inspired me to continue pursuing innovative solutions for the challenges facing aquaculture and fisheries.”
The highly competitive fellowship was awarded following a rigorous selection process by a panel of distinguished scientists, affirming the program’s dedication to academic excellence and innovation. “I am incredibly proud of Jaynos for receiving the Yang Yi Young Scientist Fellowship, a well-deserved recognition of his dedication and passion for aquaculture research. His work reflects the values we uphold at AIT—innovation, impact, and regional relevance. This award is also an inspiration to other young scientists striving to make meaningful contributions to sustainable aquaculture,” said Dr. Salin.
This achievement not only brings recognition to AIT and its Aquaculture program, but also to Mr. Cortes’s home institution, North Eastern Mindanao State University, in the Philippines. It further highlights the critical role of young scientists in advancing sustainable aquaculture and fisheries development in the region.
