MUSLIM QADIR | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

Dr. MUSLIM QADIR | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

South China Agricultural University | China

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👨‍🔬 Summary:

Dr. Muslim Qadir is a dedicated researcher specializing in crop genetics and plant breeding with a strong focus on reproductive biology, stress physiology, and genome-editing technologies. He has advanced experience in GWAS, QTL mapping, transcriptomics, proteomics, and phytohormonal analysis. Currently affiliated with the College of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University (SCAU), Guangzhou, China, Dr. Qadir actively contributes to translational research for sustainable agriculture and crop improvement.

🎓 Education:

He holds a Ph.D. in Crop Genetics and Breeding from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Wuhan (2019–2022), a Master’s in Biology (Plant Breeding and Genetics) from Southwest University of Science and Technology, Sichuan (2016–2018), and a B.Sc. in Agriculture from LUAWMS, Pakistan (2012–2016).

💼 Professional Experience:

Currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at SCAU (2024–Present), he has also served as a Research Associate at UAE University (2023), working on transcriptomic profiling in date palm, and as a Research Assistant at various institutions including LUAWMS and RRI-China. His career spans physiological studies in cotton, wheat, and rice, to functional genomics in rapeseed.

📚 Academic Citations & Publications:

Dr. Qadir has authored multiple peer-reviewed articles in journals such as Frontiers in Plant Science, Genome Editing, BMC Plant Biology, and Environmental Chemistry & Ecotoxicology. His notable publications explore ovule development, CRISPR/Cas9, stress resilience, biocontrol mechanisms, and soil remediation strategies. His cumulative citations reflect a growing international academic impact.

🧪 Technical Skills:

He possesses expertise in GWAS, QTL mapping, bioinformatics, high-throughput phenotyping, phytohormone quantification, antioxidant assays, gene expression analysis, tissue culture, DNA/RNA extraction, and functional genomics tools like CRISPR. He is proficient in statistical and molecular software tools and has hands-on field and lab experience.

🎓 Teaching Experience:

Dr. Qadir has mentored students in experimental design, data interpretation, and thesis writing during his research tenure. He has actively engaged in research training workshops and collaborative scientific projects, both in China and the UAE.

🌱 Research Interests:

His core research areas include plant reproductive genetics, seed trait development, stress physiology, plant–environment interaction, genome editing for climate resilience, and integrated crop management. His research aims to enhance productivity and sustainability in oilseed, cereal, and fruit crops.

📖Publications

Genome-Wide Identification of Chitinase Gene Family in Barley (Hordeum vulgare): Insights into Stress Response Mechanisms and Evolutionary Dynamics
    • Authors: Muslim Qadir Baloch; Irfan Ali Sabir; Farhan Nabi; Aamir Manzoor; Fazal Ullah; Muhammad Saeed; Abeer Hashem; Jawaher Alkahtani; Elsayed Fathi Abd_Allah

    • Journal: BMC Plant Biology

    • Year: 2025

CRISPR/Cas9: a sustainable technology to enhance climate resilience in major Staple Crops
    • Authors: Navjot Kaur; Muslim Qadir; Dali V. Francis; Anshu Alok; Siddharth Tiwari; Zienab F. R. Ahmed

    • Journal: Frontiers in Genome Editing

    • Year: 2025

Dissection of the genetic basis and molecular mechanism of ovule number per ovary in oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.)
    • Authors: Muslim Qadir Baloch; Xinyi Lin; Farhan Nabi; Kishore Kumar Ashok; Xue-Rong Zhou; Qingbin Sun; Peiman Shi; Xinfa Wang; Jiaqin Shi

    • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science

    • Year: 2025

Enhancing crop resilience by harnessing the synergistic effects of biostimulants against abiotic stress
    • Authors: Anam Asif; Muslim Qadir; Maratab Ali; Rajmohan Karthikeyan; Zora Singh; Ravjit Khangura; Francesco Di Gioia; Zienab F. R. Ahmed

    • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science

    • Year: 2023

 Genetic dissection of the natural variation of ovule number per ovary in oilseed rape germplasm (Brassica napus L.)
    • Authors: Muslim Qadir Baloch

    • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science

    • Year: 2022

Awwal Adamu | Medicinal Plants | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Awwal Adamu | Medicinal Plants | Best Researcher Award

Ahmadu Bello University Zaria | Nigeria

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👤 Summary:

Awwal Abdullahi Adamu is a dedicated M.Sc. student specializing in Petroleum Chemistry at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. With a strong foundation in teaching and research, he also serves as a Chemistry teacher at Government Secondary School, Warsa-Piti, Kaduna State. He is a registered educator under the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), blending academic knowledge with practical teaching experience.

🎓 Education:

Pursuing a Master of Science in Petroleum Chemistry at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.

💼 Professional Experience:

Currently a classroom teacher at Government Secondary School Warsa-Piti, Lere LGA, Kaduna State. Registered under the TRCN and actively engaged in both education and scientific research.

📚 Academic Contributions:

Published 2 research papers in reputable journals. Engaged in collaborative research on green corrosion inhibitors and metal ion removal from human plasma using plant-based materials. Key collaborators include Dr. O.R.A. Iyun, Prof. J.D. Habila, and Dr. Abuchi Elebo.

🛠️ Technical Skills:

Skilled in experimental research involving surface chemistry, green chemistry, and modeling techniques such as Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Response Surface Methodology (RSM).

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience:

Experienced in secondary education, teaching chemistry to high school students with a focus on conceptual clarity and real-world application.

🔬 Research Interests:

Green chemistry, surface chemistry, corrosion inhibition, thermodynamics, and chemical kinetics.

📖Publications

Adsorption and thermodynamic studies of the corrosion inhibition effect of Desmodium adscendens (Swartz) extract on carbon steel in 2 M HCl
  • Authors: Awwal Abdullahi Adamu, Ogunkemi Risikat Agbeke Iyun, James Dama Habila
    Journal: BMC Chemistry
    Year: 2025
Application of Artificial Neural Network and Response Surface Methodology Approach for Modeling In-vitro Removal of Cu(ii) Ion From Human Blood Plasma Using a Medicinal Biomass
  • Authors: Abuchi Elebo, Francis Uchenna Anumonye, Mbah Basil, Ndubueze Chijindu Ifeanyi, Vincent Akandi Johnson, Isaac Omole Areguamen, Awwal Abdullahi Adamu, Amarachi Maureen Udoh
    Journal: Progress in Chemical and Biochemical Research
    Year: 2025

 

Hossein Motamedi | Plant-Rhizosphere Interactions | Innovative Plant Microbiology Award

Prof. Hossein Motamedi | Plant-Rhizosphere Interactions | Innovative Plant Microbiology Award

Shahid Chamran university of Ahvaz | Iran

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👨‍🔬 Summary

Professor Hossein Motamedi is a seasoned microbiologist at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Iran, with a specialization in applied and industrial microbiology. Since joining the academic staff in 2006, he has made significant contributions to sustainable agriculture and environmental bioremediation. With an h-index of 36 and over 200 publications, he has been recognized four times as a top researcher at his university.

🎓 Education

Though specific degrees are not listed, Prof. Motamedi holds qualifications in microbiology that support his role as a professor and active researcher at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz.

🧑‍🏫 Professional Experience

Prof. Motamedi has served as an academic staff member at Shahid Chamran University since 2006. He has led eight major research projects and has supervised/advised over 100 MSc and PhD theses. He also holds editorial roles, including with the Jundishapur Journal of Microbiology.

📚 Academic Citations

Google Scholar: h-index 36, i10-index 104
Publications: 201 research papers
Books (ISBNs): 9786001410611, 9786007304396
Patents: 2 national patents

🛠️ Technical Skills

  • Microbial biofertilizer development

  • Soil and waste bioremediation

  • Nanobiofertilizer formulation

  • Biorefinery of agricultural/industrial waste

🧑‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Over 18 years of academic service, guiding numerous postgraduate students in microbiology, sustainable agriculture, and biotechnology.

🔬 Research Interests

  • Applied and industrial microbiology

  • Microbial biofertilizers (e.g., for Narcissus tazetta, sugarcane, alfalfa)

  • Soil bioremediation and environmental microbiology

  • Nanotechnology in agriculture

  • Agricultural waste valorization

📖Publications

Fabrication of zein nanofibrous scaffold containing Scrophularia striata extract for biomedical application
  • Authors: Yasin Salahshour, Saadat Rastegarzadeh, Hossein Motamedi, Elham Hoveizi
    Journal: Journal of Biological Engineering
    Year: 2025
Design, synthesis, structural characterization, and biological evaluation of dimeric mercury(II) complexes of phosphorus ylides with terminal azide ligands
  • Authors: Sepideh Samiee, Habib Rashedi, Valiollah Nobakht, Hossein Motamedi, Robert William Gable
    Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure
    Year: 2025
Integrated biorefinery process for dual production of fermentable sugars and functional humic acids from lignocellulose
  • Authors: Mi Zhou, Rui Zhai, Xiaoyu Xie, Hossein Motamedi, Mingjie Jin
    Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
    Year: 2025
Comparative study of CaFe₂O₄ with nanocomposites CaFe₂O₄@SiO₂ and the effect of silica shell thickness on their physical and magnetic properties
  • Authors: E. Mohammadzadeh Shobegar, Seyed Ebrahim Mousavi Ghahfarokhi, Hossein Motamedi
    Journal: Journal of Science: Advanced Materials and Devices
    Year: 2025
Chitosan/alginate hydrogel adorned with nanoemulsions for potential wound healing: Fabrication, characterization, and biocompatibility evaluation
  • Authors: Peyman Salehi, Fariba Heidarizadeh, Hossein Motamedi, Pooyan Makvandi
    Journal: Alexandria Engineering Journal
    Year: 2025

 

Yonghong Bi | Plant Stress | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Yonghong Bi | Plant Stress | Best Researcher Award

Institute of hydrobiology, CAS | China

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👨‍🔬 Summary

Dr. Yonghong Bi (born October 1, 1974) is a distinguished Professor at the Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. With over two decades of experience in freshwater algal ecology, his research focuses on the dynamics of phytoplankton communities, hydrodynamic impacts on freshwater systems, and algal responses to environmental changes.

🎓 Education

He earned his PhD in Hydrobiology from the Institute of Hydrobiology, CAS (2004), following a Master’s degree in Hydrobiology from Shanghai Ocean University (2001), and a Bachelor’s degree from Huazhong Agricultural University (1998).

💼 Professional Experience

Dr. Bi currently serves as a Professor (2015–present) and previously held roles as Associate Professor (2009–2015) and Assistant Professor (2004–2009) at the same institute, contributing extensively to algal ecological research and reservoir ecosystem analysis.

📚 Academic Citations & Publications

He has published widely in high-impact journals like Scientific Reports, Chemosphere, Science of the Total Environment, and Environmental Science and Pollution Research. Notable papers include studies on phytoplankton heterogeneity, hydrodynamic impacts on algae, and algal community structure in the Three Gorges Reservoir.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Expert in algal taxonomy, HPLC-CHEMTAX pigment analysis, freshwater ecology, and hydrological impact modeling. Skilled in designing and executing large-scale ecological monitoring projects.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

While not explicitly listed, his long tenure at CAS implies mentoring graduate students and contributing to academic training in freshwater ecology and hydrobiology.

🔬 Research Interests

His key interests include phytoplankton dynamics, freshwater ecosystem responses to hydrological changes, algal physiological ecology, and reservoir management strategies.

🏆 Grants & Awards

Dr. Bi has led multiple high-profile projects funded by agencies such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the National Key R&D Program, and China Three Gorges Corporation, receiving over 15 million RMB in research support.

📖Publications

 Water level fluctuations shape phytoplankton community in the Xiangxi Bay from Three Gorges Reservoir
  • Authors: L. Fang, W. Mi, Y. Li, X. Ai, Y. Bi
    Journal: Journal of Environmental Sciences (China)
    Year: 2025
 Photodegradation mechanism of organic contaminants mediated by chlorinated algal organic matter
  • Authors: X. Wan, C. Yu, Y. Zhao, C. Liu, Y. Bi
    Journal: Water Research
    Year: 2025
Sll1725, an ABC transporter in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 for the detoxification of cadmium ion stress
  • Authors: G. Ruan, C. Liu, G. Song, B. Hu, Y. Bi
    Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
    Year: 2025
A coupled hydraulic-ecological model for simulating periphytic algal detachment in water delivery canals
  • Authors: M. Yang, G. Guan, Y. Bi, Y. Zhu, K. Wang
    Journal: Journal of Environmental Management
    Year: 2025
 Effects of flushing flow on periphytic algal community at different colonization stages
  • Authors: M. Yang, Y. Bi, S. Duan, G. Guan, Y. Zhu
    Journal: Hydrobiologia
    Year: 2025

 

Rattan Lal | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Rattan Lal | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

The Ohio State University | United States

Author Profile

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🎓 Education

Dr. Lal earned his B.Sc. in Agriculture (1963) from PAU, India, followed by an M.Sc. in Soils (1965) from IARI, New Delhi. He completed his Ph.D. in Soils (1968) at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA. He has received multiple honorary doctorates from globally recognized institutions, underscoring his academic impact.

💼 Professional Experience

Dr. Lal has served in numerous high-impact roles, including Director of the Carbon Management and Sequestration Center (OSU), Chair of the Scientific Advisory Board for the U.S. Department of Defense (2023–2024), and Member of the Board for International Food and Agricultural Development (BIFAD, 2022–2025). He has held academic and research positions across continents—India, Australia, Nigeria, Germany, and the USA. He is also affiliated with institutions such as the UNCCD, IUSS, and IFDC and continues to influence global soil and environmental policy through advisory roles.

🏛️ Academic and Scientific Citations

Dr. Lal has been Editor-in-Chief of Advances in Soil Science, Encyclopedia of Soil Science, and Soil & Tillage Research. He has authored or co-authored thousands of scientific papers and reports, contributing to major IPCC assessments and global initiatives like “4 per Thousand.” His citation metrics place him among the top-ranked agricultural scientists globally.

🧪 Technical Skills

Expertise in soil physics, carbon sequestration, climate change mitigation, sustainable land management, agroecology, and nutrient cycling. He is proficient in both field and lab-based methodologies, modeling carbon fluxes, and advising on large-scale environmental assessments.

🎓 Teaching Experience

A lifelong educator, Dr. Lal has taught soil science at The Ohio State University since 1989, mentoring countless graduate students and researchers worldwide. He has served as an Adjunct Professor at several institutions, including the Indian Agricultural Research Institute and the University of Iceland, influencing agricultural education across borders.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Lal’s research spans soil health, soil carbon dynamics, climate change adaptation and mitigation, food security, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable agriculture. His interdisciplinary approach connects soil science with climate resilience, human health, and global development.

📖Publications

INTEGRATION OF COMPOST WITH MINERAL NPK FERTILIZERS FOR IMPROVING WHEAT YIELD AND SOIL HEALTH
  • Authors: Abdul A. Basir, Sikandar S. Iqbal, Muhammad M. Adnan, Zeki Z. Erden, Ayman El A.E. Sabagh

  • Journal: Pakistan Journal of Botany

  • Year: 2025

No-till systems restore soil organic carbon stock in Brazilian biomes and contribute to the climate solution
  • Authors: João Carlos De Moraes J.C.D.M. Sá, Rattan A. R.A. Lal, Klaus E. K.E. Lorenz, Daniel Ruiz Potma D.R.P. Gonçalves, Jeankleber J. Bortoluzzi

  • Journal: Science of the Total Environment

  • Year: 2025

Soil organic carbon stock for carbon credit in smallholder farms
  • Authors: Toru T. Nakajima, Fune F. Mizumoto, Mei M. Akiyama, Carla C. Gavilán, Rattan A. R.A. Lal

  • Journal: Agrosystems, Geosciences and Environment

  • Year: 2025

Restoring Soil Organic Matter Content for Managing Soil Health in Africa’s Agroecoregions
  • Author: Rattan A. R.A. Lal

  • Journal: Egyptian Journal of Soil Science

  • Year: 2025

Effects of biochar and cover crops on physical properties of two soils in Ohio
  • Authors: Sandhya S. Karki, Raj Kumar R.K. Shrestha, Rattan A. R.A. Lal, Klaus E. K.E. Lorenz, Laura E. L.E. Lindsey

  • Journal: Soil Science Society of America Journal

  • Year: 2025

Madhusmita Sahu | Medicinal Plants | Young Researcher Award

Ms. Madhusmita Sahu | Medicinal Plants | Young Researcher Award

SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Delhi-NCR Campu | India

Author Profile

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👩‍🔬 Professional Summary

Ms. Madhusmita Sahu is an experienced academician and researcher in the field of Pharmacology, currently working as an Associate Professor at MET Faculty of Pharmacy, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh. With over 11 years of teaching and research experience, she has developed expertise in bioanalysis, phytochemistry, and pharmacological screening of natural compounds. She is also serving as an Editorial Board Member of the Journal of Bioanalysis & Biomedicine (Hilaris Publishers). Her work is widely recognized through 29 international publications and five published patents. Known for her methodical research and dedication to pharmaceutical education, she has significantly contributed to both academic and clinical research domains.

🎓 Education

Ms. Sahu is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Pharmacology at SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Delhi-NCR Campus, where she began her doctoral work in 2022 (Coursework CGPA: 7.72). She completed her M.Pharmacy in Pharmacology from Roland Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Berhampur, affiliated with BPUT, Odisha, in 2011 with an impressive CGPA of 9.10. Her B.Pharmacy degree was obtained from the College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mohuda, Berhampur in 2009 with a CGPA of 7.78. Her early education includes H.S.C. and Higher Secondary studies from Odisha boards, where she developed her foundational knowledge in the sciences.

💼 Professional Experience

Over the years, Ms. Sahu has served in various academic roles, beginning her career as an Assistant Professor at Yalamarty Pharmacy College, Visakhapatnam (2011–2014). She then moved to MNR College of Pharmacy, Telangana (2014–2017), and MLR Institute of Pharmacy, Hyderabad (2017–2019). Her role as an Associate Professor at Arka Jain University, Jharkhand (2021–2022) allowed her to deepen her academic and administrative responsibilities. She also served briefly at SRM IST, Delhi-NCR Campus and Meerut Institute of Engineering and Technology. Since June 2023, she has been contributing actively to teaching and research at MET Faculty of Pharmacy, Moradabad.

📚 Academic Contributions

Ms. Sahu has authored and co-authored 29 international research papers, many of which are published in SCIE and PubMed-indexed journals like Springer, Wiley, and Elsevier. Her research contributions cover pharmacokinetics, HPLC and LC-MS/MS method development, herbal drug formulations, and in-silico studies. She has also guided 9 undergraduate and 3 postgraduate students, providing mentorship and research support. Her recent publication in Journal of Mass Spectrometry highlights her ongoing contribution to the field of wound healing and phytochemical analysis.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Ms. Sahu is proficient in using various laboratory and analytical instruments such as HPLC, UV-Visible Spectrophotometer, and Auto Analyzer. In addition to her laboratory skills, she is well-versed in Microsoft Office tools like MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, enabling her to present and document research effectively.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

With over 11 years of teaching experience, Ms. Sahu has taught undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Analysis, and Pharmacognosy. She is known for integrating hands-on research experience into her classroom teaching, creating a practical and application-oriented learning environment for students. Her supervision of UG and PG student research projects reflects her commitment to academic mentorship and holistic education.

🔬 Research Interests

Ms. Sahu’s research interests lie in the domains of phytochemistry, herbal pharmacology, analytical method development using HPLC and LC-MS/MS, in-vitro and in-silico studies, and bioanalytical drug estimation in plasma. She is especially focused on investigating natural products for therapeutic potential in areas such as diabetes, wound healing, and cancer.

📖Publications

A NOVEL ORGANIC HERBAL COMPOSITION FOR THE TREATMENT OF MUCORMYCOSIS IN IMMUNOCOMPROMISED PATIENTS
  • Application No. 202311014276
  • The Patent Office Journal No. 11/2023 Dated 17/03/2023
  • Date of filing of Application: 03/03/2023
  • Publication Date: 17/03/2023
CHARACTERIZATION OF SOME ESSENTIAL FLAVONOIDS AND OTHER PHYTOCHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS OF ETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF CORDIA MYXA LEAVES USING SOPHISTICATED ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES
  • Application No. 202311041325 A
  • The Patent Office Journal No. 29/2023 Dated 21/07/2023
  • Date of filing of Application: 17/06/2023
  • Publication date: 21/07/2023
 CHARACTERIZATION OF SOME ESSENTIAL PHYTOCHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS OF METHANOLIC EXTRACT OF GLYCINE MAX SEEDS USING SOPHISTICATED ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES
  • Application No. 202311042511 A
  • The Patent Office Journal No. 29/2023 Dated 21/07/2023
  • Date of filing of Application: 25/06/2023
  • Publication date: 21/07/2023
METHOD FOR SYNTHESIZING FEW NOVEL ARYL DIAZENYL DERIVATIVES OF INDOLE AND THEIR IN-SILICO INVESTIGATION
  • Application No. 202331053968
  • The Patent Office Journal No. : 13/2023 dated
  • Date of filing of Application: 11/08/2023
  • Publication date: 13/10/2023
THERMOSTAT STUDENT ORGAN BATH FOR MONITORING TISSUE ACTIVITY
  • Application No. 406183-001
  • Design Grant
  • Date of filing of Application: 31/01/2024

Jia Hao | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Jia Hao | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

school of medicine | China

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🧬 Summary

Dr. Jia Hao is a Principal Investigator and PhD Supervisor at the Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SJTU-SM), specializing in phytomedicine for major diseases. With over 10 competitive grants (including from NSFC) and more than 30 Q1 publications as first/corresponding author in top-tier journals such as Nature Communications, Molecular Therapy, and PNAS, Dr. Jia is a recognized leader in molecular biotechnology and disease research. He also holds 10 invention patents, including international ones, showcasing his innovation in translational medicine.

🎓 Education & Professional Experience

Dr. Jia earned his PhD in Biology from Shanghai Jiao Tong University (2010–2014), followed by a postdoctoral fellowship (2014–2016) at SJTU-SM. He rose from Associate Researcher (2017–2023) to Researcher (2024–present) and holds key administrative roles including Deputy Secretary of the Party Branch and member of the Discipline Inspection Committee at SJTU-SM.

📈 Academic Citations & Achievements

With a robust portfolio of high-impact publications and citations, Dr. Jia has contributed significantly to cancer biology, biosensors, and immunoregulation. His research has been featured in EMBO Reports, Theranostics, and Oncogene. Awards include the 2024 Shanghai Medical Science and Technology Award and the 2023 CSCB Young Faculty Award, among many others recognizing both scientific and teaching excellence.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Jia’s technical proficiencies span nanomaterials (e.g., graphene oxide-based biosensors), molecular diagnostics, gene expression profiling, and advanced cellular biology techniques. His interdisciplinary work integrates biomedical engineering, immunology, and phytotherapy.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Dr. Jia is also an accomplished educator, recognized with the “Shangyao Xinglin Yucai Award” (2023) and awards in teaching competitions at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. His mentorship extends across undergraduate to PhD levels, fostering innovation in medical biotechnology.

🔬 Research Interests

His core research interests include the therapeutic use of phytomedicine in immune-related diseases and cancers, biosensor development for infectious disease detection, and the molecular regulation of tumor progression. Current work includes exploring lncRNAs, zinc finger proteins, and mechanosensitive channels in disease mechanisms.

📖Publications

Graphene Oxide‐Assisted Tapered Microfiber Super‐Sensor for Rapid Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Antigens
  • Authors: Ren Liu, Tianhuan Song, Xiaolin Chen, Zhiheng Yu, Cunliang Yang, Xianchao Zhang, Fengli Huang, Hao Jia, Jijun Feng, Yujiong Wang

  • Journal: Biotechnology and Bioengineering

  • Year: 2025

The TGF-β/MMP9/RAGE axis induces sRAGE secretion by neutrophils and promotes oral carcinogenesis
  • Authors: Xiaolin Chen, Ningyuan Wang, Chenyang Jing, Jianghan Li, Xuanhao Liu, Yuquan Yang, Tianhuan Song, Hao Jia

  • Journal: Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports

  • Year: 2024

Roles of mechanosensitive ion channels in immune cells
  • Authors: Kexin Xia, Xiaolin Chen, Wenyan Wang, Qianwen Liu, Mai Zhao, Jiacheng Ma, Hao Jia

  • Journal: Heliyon

  • Year: 2024

GATA zinc finger protein p66β promotes breast cancer cell migration by acting as a co-activator of Snail
  • Authors: Xiuqun Zou, Li Ma, Yihong Zhang, Qun Zhang, Chu Xu, Dan Zhang, Yimin Chu, Jie Zhang, Mengying Li, Hui Zhang, Hao Jia (et al.)

  • Journal: Cell Death & Disease

  • Year: 2023

Ajuba functions as a co-activator of C/EBPβ to induce expression of PPARγ and C/EBPα during adipogenesis
  • Authors: Hao Jia (primary author)

  • Journal: Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology

  • Year: 2022

 

Deepana K | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Deepana K | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University | India

Author Profile

Scopus

🌟 Summary:

Deepana K is a dedicated researcher in the field of Genetics and Plant Breeding, with a Master of Science in Agriculture from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. Her work centers on improving pulse crops through genetic, morphological, and biochemical characterization. With a strong academic foundation and practical experience, she aims to contribute to sustainable crop development and food security through research innovation.

🎓 Education:

She holds an M.Sc (Agri) in Genetics and Plant Breeding from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, where she developed her expertise in crop improvement and plant breeding methodologies.

💼 Professional Experience:

Deepana has hands-on experience conducting field trials, statistical data analysis, and varietal evaluation, particularly in pulses. Her research emphasizes genetic diversity and resistance breeding, essential for sustainable agriculture.

📊 Academic Citations:

Her notable publication, “Genetic diversity, morphological variation and biochemical profiling of dolichos bean: a study for crop improvement”, published in Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution (2025), showcases her scholarly contribution. DOI link

🛠️ Technical Skills:

Deepana is proficient in field experimentation, biometric data analysis, varietal screening, biochemical profiling, and statistical tools relevant to plant breeding research.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience:

Though primarily a researcher, Deepana’s academic background enables her to engage effectively in knowledge dissemination and mentoring within her field.

🔬 Research Interest:

Her main area of research lies in Dolichos Bean (Lablab purpureus), with particular focus on genetic variability, crop resistance, morpho-biochemical traits, and pulse improvement strategies.

📖Publications

The Dolichos bean: a versatile legume with potential to address food security challenges and strategies for improvement
  • Authors: K. Deepana Krishnan, K. Geetha, P. Jeyaprakash Paramasiwam, M. Sangeetha, K. Govindan
  • Journal: Legume Research – An International Journal
    Year: 2024

Michael Neff | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Michael Neff | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Washington State University | United States

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🧬 Summary

Dr. Michael Neff is a Professor of Crop Biotechnology in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences at Washington State University. With a Ph.D. in Botany (1995) from the University of Washington, Dr. Neff leads a research program centered on plant developmental biology, particularly light and hormone signaling pathways in Arabidopsis thaliana. His work integrates molecular biology, genetics, and biotechnology to understand how light and hormones regulate plant growth, with the ultimate goal of improving crop productivity.

🎓 Education

Dr. Neff earned his Ph.D. in Botany in 1995 from the University of Washington, where he developed a foundational understanding of plant molecular genetics. His academic training established a solid platform for his pioneering work in hormone signaling and photomorphogenesis in plants.

💼 Professional Experience

With extensive experience in plant biology, Dr. Neff has served as a faculty member at Washington State University, advancing from assistant professor to full professor. He leads a dynamic lab that explores gene regulation and hormonal pathways influencing plant architecture and development. His leadership spans over two decades in crop biotechnology research and graduate mentoring.

📚 Academic Citations

Dr. Neff’s research has been widely cited in high-impact journals such as PNAS, Plant Journal, Plant Physiology, and G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics. His key contributions include discoveries in brassinosteroid inactivation, light-mediated seedling growth, and cytokinin regulation, with over 30 peer-reviewed publications as senior or corresponding author.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Neff specializes in molecular cloning, gene expression analysis, mutant screening, transgenic technologies, and light/hormone assay systems in model plants. His lab utilizes CRISPR, real-time PCR, RNA-Seq, and microscopy-based phenotyping to dissect gene function in developmental processes.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As an educator, Dr. Neff teaches undergraduate and graduate-level courses in plant biology, crop biotechnology, and molecular genetics. He is known for integrating laboratory-based problem solving and classical experiments into his curriculum, nurturing critical thinking and experimental design skills in students.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Neff’s research focuses on:

  1. Brassinosteroid inactivation via cytochrome P450 enzymes (BAS1, SOB7).

  2. Role of Dof-class transcription factor SOB1 in plant morphology.

  3. Function of AT-hook proteins (SOB3, ESC) in light-regulated growth and senescence.

  4. Novel SOFL protein family involved in cytokinin biosynthesis and signaling.
    His lab explores cross-talk between hormone pathways and light perception to understand growth regulation in plants.

📖Publications

Registration of ‘Matchless’ Kentucky bluegras
  • Authors: Xin Xin, Jonathan J. Schnore, Charles T. Golob, Anna K. Hulbert, Michael M. Neff
The ability of Arabidopsis to recover from Basta and its application in isolating Cas9-free mutants
  • Authors: Shahbaz S. Ahmed, Anna K. Hulbert, Xin Xin, Michael M. Neff
Genetic Interactions Between BEN1- and Cytochrome P450-Mediated Brassinosteroid Inactivation
  • Authors: Reuben R. Tayengwa, Shelby R. Westenskow, Hao H. Peng, Anna K. Hulbert, Michael M. Neff
SUPPRESSOR OF PHYTOCHROME B-4 #3 reduces the expression of PIF-activated genes and increases expression of growth repressors to regulate hypocotyl elongation in short days
  • Authors: Caitlin N. Jacques, David S. Favero, Ayako Kawamura, Keiko Sugimoto, Michael M. Neff
    Journal: BMC Plant Biology
    Year: 2022
The NAC transcription factor ATAF2 promotes ethylene biosynthesis and response in Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings
  • Authors: Hao H. Peng, Jessica J. Phung, Evan C. Stowe, Amit Dhingra, Michael M. Neff
    Journal: FEBS Letters
    Year: 2022

Zelna Booth | Plant Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zelna Booth | Plant Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

University of the Witwatersrand | South Africa

Author Profile

Scopus
Orcid ID
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👩‍⚕️ Summary

Zelna Booth is a passionate academic lecturer and registered pharmacist at the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa. With a strong foundation in pharmacy and a research focus on traditional medicinal plants and antimicrobial interactions, she champions integrative healthcare approaches. Having completed her PhD on the interaction of traditional medicines with conventional antimicrobials, she aims to bridge indigenous knowledge systems with modern pharmaceutical sciences to improve patient outcomes.

🎓 Education

Zelna obtained her Bachelor of Pharmacy (with distinction) in 2011, followed by a Master of Pharmacy (also with distinction) in 2014. Her academic journey culminated in a PhD, with a dissertation focused on the prevalence and antimicrobial interactions of traditional medicine in South African hospitals. Her academic rigor reflects a deep commitment to healthcare innovation rooted in cultural relevance and scientific validation.

💼 Professional Experience

Currently a lecturer in the Division of Pharmacy Practice, Zelna actively mentors postgraduate students, leads research projects, and engages in curriculum development. She has contributed to academia through local and international presentations, authorship in reputable journals, and consultancy roles such as the PharmApprentice initiative with Aspen Pharmacare. Her leadership includes academic representation on the PSSA Southern Gauteng committee.

📚 Academic Citations

With a Scopus h-index of 2 and Author ID: 56152911800, Zelna has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and a book chapter on natural products combating antimicrobial resistance. She is also an active reviewer for respected journals like the South African Pharmaceutical Journal and Journal of Ethnopharmacology.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Her expertise spans pharmaceutical microbiology, pharmacognosy, antimicrobial resistance, toxicity assays, and in vitro combination interaction studies. She is adept at integrative medicine research and applying laboratory insights to clinical and public health frameworks.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Zelna has supervised 12 postgraduate students to successful degree completion and has presented research at over 10 national and 2 international conferences. She contributes significantly to pharmacy education, focusing on evidence-based practice, pharmacology, and student mentorship.

🔬 Research Interests

Her primary interests include interactive antimicrobial efficacy analysis, indigenous medicinal plants, toxicological safety, antimicrobial resistance, and integrative healthcare systems. She advocates for evidence-based synergy between traditional healing and modern medicine to tackle global health challenges.

📖Publications

Conventional Antimicrobial and Medicinal Plants from a Traditional Medicine Market in South Africa: An Interactive Antimicrobial and Toxicity Study
  • Authors: Zelna Booth, Sabiha Essack, Sandy van Vuuren
  • Journal: Antibiotics
  • Year: 2025
Toxicity and antimicrobial interactions with conventional antimicrobials of commonly traded medicinal plants from Faraday muthi market (Johannesburg, South Africa)
  • Authors: Zelna Booth, Gugulethu Khumalo, Sandy Van Vuuren
  • Journal: South African Journal of Botany
  • Year: 2024
The pattern of antibiotic utilisation among intensive care unit patients hospitalised in a Gauteng (South African) provincial tertiary hospital: Comparing findings before and during COVID-19
  • Authors: L. Spinickum, Zelna Booth, S. Leigh-de Rapper
  • Journal: South African Medical Journal
  • Year: 2024
 Impact of Illegible Prescriptions on Dispensing Practice: A Pilot Study of South African Pharmacy Personnel
  • Authors: Zelna Booth
  • Journal: Pharmacy
  • Year: 2022
Can rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) tea have an effect on conventional antimicrobial therapies?
  • Authors: Hübsch, Z.; Van Vuuren, S.F.; Van Zyl, R.L.
  • Journal: South African Journal of Botany
  • Year: 2014