Idrissou Ahoudou | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Idrissou Ahoudou | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Genetics, Biotechnology, and Seed Sciences Unit, University of Abomey-Calavi | Benin

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🌟 IDRISSOU AHOUDOU: A LEADING RESEARCHER IN GENETICS AND PLANT BREEDING

INTRODUCTION

Dr. Idrissou Ahoudou is a distinguished researcher in Genetics and Plant Breeding, with a strong academic background and extensive experience in plant genetics, biotechnology, and crop improvement. His research contributions have significantly advanced the understanding of genetic diversity and crop resilience, particularly in Africa.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Ahoudou’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Crop Production from the National School of Agricultural Sciences and Techniques of Djougou, University of Parakou, Benin, in 2014. He later pursued a Master of Science in Biotechnology and Plant Breeding at the Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin, completing his studies in 2018. Currently, he is set to defend his PhD at the University of Abomey-Calavi on March 19, 2025.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Ahoudou has served in multiple research capacities, notably as a Research Assistant from 2019 to 2022 in the “Improved Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato Value Chains for Food and Nutrition Security in Benin, Niger, and Nigeria” project. His responsibilities included:

  • Study Design and Implementation – Conceptualizing and executing baseline studies.
  • Germplasm Conservation – Preserving sweet potato genetic diversity.
  • Cultivar Evaluation – Identifying high-yield sweet potato cultivars.
  • Capacity Building – Training farmers in sustainable agricultural practices.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Plant Genetics

Dr. Ahoudou specializes in plant genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, and crop breeding. His research encompasses:

  • Participatory Breeding Approaches – Engaging farmers in cultivar evaluation.
  • Genetic Improvement of Crops – Enhancing yield and stress resistance.
  • Bioinformatics Applications – Utilizing computational tools for genetic analysis.
  • Climate Change Adaptation – Developing resilient crop varieties.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Ahoudou’s work has had a profound impact on food security and sustainable agriculture in West Africa. His research in genetic improvement of sweet potatoes and tomatoes has contributed to better yield stability and nutritional value, benefiting local farmers and agricultural stakeholders.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Ahoudou has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, including:

  1. Ahoudou, I., et al. (2023). Farmers’ selection criteria for sweet potato varieties in Benin: An application of Best-Worst Scaling, Experimental Agriculture, 59, p. e25. [DOI: 10.1017/S0014479723000224]
  2. Ahoudou, I., et al. (2025). Multi-environmental traits selection and farmer’s participatory assessment of mean performance and stability of orange-fleshed sweet potato genotypes in Benin, Heliyon, 11(2), p. e41685. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e41685]

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • 2018 – Letter of Congratulations from the Director of the Genetics, Horticulture, and Seed Science Laboratory for securing an African Union Research Grant.
  • 2011 – Benin Government Scholarship for Bachelor studies.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

With his dedication to plant genetics and breeding, Dr. Ahoudou aims to:

  • Develop new resilient crop varieties.
  • Enhance bioinformatics integration in genetic studies.
  • Strengthen collaborations between research institutions and farmers.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Ahoudou continues to be a trailblazer in genetics and plant breeding, focusing on improving food security and sustainable agricultural practices. His research and fieldwork have positioned him as an influential figure in crop genetics and biotechnology.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Multi-environmental traits selection and farmer’s participatory assessment of mean performance and stability of orange-fleshed sweet potato genotypes in Benin

  • Authors: I. Ahoudou, V.N. Fassinou Hotegni, D.E.O. Sogbohossou, I. Moumouni-Moussa, E.G. Achigan-Dako

  • Journal: Heliyon

  • Year: 2025

 

Takwa Wannassi | Plant-Animal Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Takwa Wannassi | Plant-Animal Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Regional Center Of Research Agricultural Sidi Bouzid | Tunisia

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TAKWA WANNASSI: A LEADING RESEARCHER IN PLANT PROTECTION AND SOIL MICROBIOMES 🌿

INTRODUCTION

Takwa Wannassi is a distinguished postdoctoral researcher specializing in plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPR) and soil microbiomes. With a strong foundation in plant protection and environmental sciences, her work aims to enhance plant growth and combat diseases through innovative microbial interactions. Based in Tunisia, she has gained extensive experience in molecular biology, pest management, and genomics, contributing significantly to agricultural sustainability.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Takwa Wannassi’s academic journey began with a strong focus on biological sciences. She earned her Secondary Education Certificate in Experimental Science from Houcine Bouzaiene High School, Gafsa, Tunisia, before advancing to the Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Gabes for her preparatory cycle in Biology and Geology. She later pursued an Engineer Degree in Horticulture with a specialization in Plant Protection at the Higher Institute of Agronomic Sciences of Chott Mariem (ISA-CM), University of Sousse. Her academic dedication culminated in a Ph.D. in Plant Protection and Environment from the same institution.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Takwa Wannassi has held several prestigious research positions, including:

  • Postdoctoral Fellow at CRRA Sidi Bouzid (2025): Conducting metagenomic analysis and supervising student research as part of the REVINE Project.
  • Postdoctoral Fellow at ISA-CM (2023): Working on the ASTER Prima project, screening endosymbiont bacteria in invasive pests.
  • Development Engineer at the Technical Center of Dates (2022-2023): Implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies and monitoring crop damage.
  • Responsible for the Insectarium at ISA-CM (2022-2023): Managing insect colonies and research operations in entomology laboratories.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON agricultural 

Takwa Wannassi’s research primarily revolves around plant-microbe interactions, emphasizing:

  • Screening PGPR for plant growth and disease protection.
  • Metagenomic analysis of soil microbiomes.
  • Identification and characterization of bacteria and fungi linked to plant health.
  • Sustainable agricultural solutions using microbial interventions. Her expertise extends to DNA extraction, PCR, bioinformatics, and microbial genomics, making her a crucial contributor to agricultural research.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Her contributions to plant protection and microbiome research have advanced sustainable agriculture practices, aiding in disease management and soil health restoration. Her work in invasive pest control has significant implications for food security and crop resilience in Tunisia and beyond.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Takwa Wannassi has authored numerous impactful research papers, including:

  • “Emergence of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi as an economic pest of apricots in Tunisia” (Phytoparasitica Journal)
  • “Insights on the bioecology of the invasive apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi in Tunisia” (Biologia Journal)
  • “The cotton mealybug Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley is spreading in North Africa: first report in Tunisia” (Oriental Insects Journal)
  • “Prevalence of Wolbachia infection in field natural population of the apricot seed wasp” (International Microbiology Journal)
  • “Exploration of bacterial composition and diversity within the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi by 16S rRNA Illumina sequencing” (Symbiosis Journal)

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Best Poster Award (TJASSST 2019)
  • Research Award, University of Victoria, Canada (2019)
  • Mitacs Globalink Research Award, Acadia University, Canada (2021)
  • Best Oral Communication Award, 13th Arab Plant Protection Conference (2022)

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking ahead, Takwa Wannassi aims to: Expand international collaborations in microbial genomics and plant-microbe interactions. Contribute to the development of eco-friendly biofertilizers and biopesticides. Continue mentoring young researchers and students in agricultural biotechnology.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Takwa Wannassi remains committed to advancing plant protection research and sustainable agricultural practices. Her relentless pursuit of knowledge and scientific innovation positions her as a key figure in microbiome studies and plant health improvement.

📑NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Exploration of bacterial composition and diversity within the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) by 16S rRNA Illumina sequencing
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Chahnez Naccache, Brahim Chermiti, and Maha Mezghani Khemakhem
  • Journal: Symbiosis
  • Year: 2025
Prevalence of Wolbachia infection in field natural population of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae)
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Ahmed Sayadi, Khaled Abbes, Salma Djebbi, Chahnez Naccache, Maha Mezghani Khemakhem, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: International Microbiology
  • Year: 2024
The cotton mealybug Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) is spreading in North Africa: first report in Tunisia
  • Authors: Khaled Abbes, Ahlem Harbi, Takwa Wanassi, Michele Ricupero, Gaetana Mazzeo, Agatino Russo, Antonio Biondi, Lucia Zappalà, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: Oriental Insects
  • Year: 2023
Insights on the bioecology of the invasive apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) in Tunisia
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Khaled Abbes, Ahlem Harbi, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: Biologia
  • Year: 2023
Emergence of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi Vassiliev (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) as an economic pest of apricots in Tunisia
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Ahlem Harbi, Khaled Abbes, Mohamed Elimem, Gérard Delvare, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: Phytoparasitica
  • Year: 2022

 

SOURAV GHOSH | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Paper Award

Dr. SOURAV GHOSH | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Paper Award

RAI TECHNOLOGY UNIVERSITY | India

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🌟INTRODUCTION

Sourav Ghosh is an accomplished environmental biologist and microbiologist, with more than a decade of academic experience, specializing in environmental biology, soil science, and microbial ecology. With a profound research focus on pressing global issues like heavy metal pollution, antibiotic resistance, and sustainable agriculture, he strives to integrate biological research with cutting-edge analytics to address real-world challenges. Currently an Associate Professor and Head of Department at Rai Technology University, Bengaluru, India, Sourav continues to push the boundaries of research and education, mentoring students and researchers alike.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Sourav’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in microbiology at Calcutta University, where he completed his Bachelor’s (BSc) and Master’s (MSc) degrees with first-class honors. His academic excellence earned him a Gold Medal, and he went on to pursue a PhD in Microbial Technology at West Bengal University of Technology, which he completed in 2011. Sourav’s early education and research set the stage for his future endeavors, culminating in multiple prestigious fellowships and awards.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

With over 10 years of professional experience, Sourav has held pivotal roles in teaching, curriculum development, research supervision, and scientific communication. His academic journey includes significant positions such as:

  • Head of Department, Rai Technology University, Bengaluru (April 2024 – Present)
  • Head of Environmental Microbiology Laboratory, Patanjali Research Institute, Haridwar (2021-2024)
  • Scientist C, DY Patil Deemed University, Mumbai (2017-2021)
  • Assistant Professor, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology (2011-2016)

Through these roles, Sourav has developed and delivered interdisciplinary courses, initiated and regulated research activities, and made substantial contributions to both student welfare and academic progress.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Sustainable Agriculture

Sourav’s research addresses a wide range of critical environmental issues, including the remediation of heavy metal contamination, antibiotic resistance, and the promotion of sustainable agriculture. His work in microbial technology aims to develop innovative solutions to environmental degradation and improve agricultural practices. His research has been published in various international journals and books, contributing to the academic community’s understanding of these pressing concerns.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Sourav’s impact stretches beyond academia, with significant contributions to environmental science, sustainable agriculture, and the education sector. He has been instrumental in developing new educational programs, enhancing research opportunities, and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations. His work as a reviewer for high-impact journals and his participation in international conferences further solidifies his influence within the scientific community.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Sourav has authored over 29 publications, including SCI-indexed articles, international book chapters, and preprints. His scholarly work has an H-index of 6, with over 200 citations, reflecting the significant contribution of his research to global scientific discourse. His publications in journals such as Environmental Science and Pollution Research, Ceylon Journal of Science, and International Journal of Financial Management highlight his diverse research interests and interdisciplinary expertise.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • CSIR-NET-LS (AIR 33) in 2011
  • GATE (AIR 715) in 2012
  • INSPIRE-DST Fellowship in 2012
  • JSPS-HOPE Fellow, Japan (2015)
  • Best Poster Award, China (2016)

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking ahead, Sourav is determined to expand his research on sustainable agricultural practices and continue his leadership in educational reforms. His ongoing work in environmental remediation and microbial ecology promises to shape future innovations in the field, contributing to a greener, healthier planet. As he strives to integrate biological research with technological advancements, Sourav’s legacy will undoubtedly influence future generations of researchers, educators, and environmental scientists.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Sourav Ghosh’s journey as an academic leader and researcher continues to inspire. His dedication to tackling some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges, coupled with his teaching and mentoring endeavors, ensures that his influence will remain strong in both academia and industry for years to come.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Sequential distribution, potential sources, and health risk assessment of persistent toxic substances in sewage sludge used as organic fertilizer in Indo-Gangetic region
  • Authors: Balkrishna, A., Ghosh, S., Kaushik, I., Saxena, A., Singh, S.
  • Journal: Environmental Science and Pollution Research
  • Year: 2025
Harnessing the Power of Rhizosphere Bacteria for Pollution Remediation: Strategies, Mechanisms, and Environmental Impact: A review
  • Authors: Balkrishna, A., Kaushik, P., Mohini, Arya, V., Ghosh, S.
  • Journal: Ceylon Journal of Science
  • Year: 2024
Impact assessment of integrated-pathy on cancer-related fatigue in cancer patients: an observational study
  • Authors: Balkrishna, A., Katiyar, P., Ghosh, S., Singh, S.K., Arya, V.
  • Journal: Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition
  • Year: 2024
An Application of Yagna Pathy: A Spiritual, Cost-Effective, Indigenous Low-Intensity Psychological Intervention to Manage Common Mental Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study in India
  • Authors: Balkrishna, A., Gupta, A., Ghosh, S., Arya, V.
  • Journal: Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine
  • Year: 2024
Reuse of Sewage Sludge as Organic Agricultural Products: An Efficient Technology-Based Initiative
  • Authors: Balkrishna, A., Banerjee, S., Ghosh, S., Arya, V., Singh, S.K.
  • Journal: Applied and Environmental Soil Science
  • Year: 2024

 

Ramendra Kumar Singh | Medicinal Plants | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Ramendra Kumar Singh | Medicinal Plants | Best Researcher Award

University of Allahabad | India

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🌟 PROFESSOR RAMENDRA K. SINGH – ACADEMIC AND RESEARCH LEGACY

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Professor Ramendra K. Singh embarked on his academic journey at the University of Allahabad, where he completed his MSc in Chemistry in 1981, specializing in Organic Chemistry. He then went on to pursue his PhD in Chemistry (1986), focusing on synthetic studies of natural products, particularly the chemical and enzymatic synthesis of DNA/RNA fragments. These early academic achievements laid the foundation for his deep involvement in bioorganic chemistry and molecular biology.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Professor Singh‘s professional trajectory includes a distinguished career in academia and research administration. He is currently a Professor at the University of Allahabad, a position he has held since 2012. His contributions have also been pivotal in various leadership roles, such as Coordinator of the Centre of Bioinformatics (2020-2022), and Controller of Examinations (2018-2022). Additionally, he has served as the Director of the Faculty Recruitment Cell and Administrative Coordinator, contributing significantly to the university’s growth and academic programs.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON MEDICINAL PLANTS

Professor Singh‘s research interests primarily revolve around the synthesis of natural products, DNA/RNA fragment synthesis, and the development of biomolecular techniques. He has focused on molecular synthesis techniques, such as solid-phase synthesis of oligonucleotides, and has worked extensively on anti-sense and anti-gene approaches in gene expression. His work has led to significant advancements in drug development, microbial testing, and the exploration of biological properties of oligonucleotides.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Professor Singh’s influence extends beyond academia. He has made significant contributions to bioinformatics, chemistry, and molecular biology, shaping the fields through his innovative research and leadership. His expertise is recognized globally, with memberships in several prestigious scientific organizations, such as the American Chemical Society, Indian Science Congress Association, and Indian Association for Cancer Research.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Professor Singh‘s extensive body of work includes multiple publications in international journals related to bioorganic chemistry and molecular biology. His research has been cited widely, contributing to advancements in drug design, gene synthesis, and biotechnology. His editorial roles in various scientific journals further underscore his significant academic influence.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

Professor Singh has received numerous accolades for his contributions to science. Some of the most notable awards and fellowships include:

  • Fulbright-Nehru Senior Research Fellowship (2013)
  • INSA International Exchange Fellowship (2010)
  • Jawaharlal Nehru Visiting Fellowship (1995)
  • UNESCO Fellowship (1991), and several others.
    These recognitions highlight his dedication to research and education across global platforms.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking forward, Professor Singh’s ongoing research in molecular biology and bioorganic chemistry will likely lead to even greater breakthroughs, especially in the realms of drug development and biotechnology. His contributions will continue to impact the global scientific landscape, further establishing his legacy as a pioneer in the field.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Professor Ramendra K. Singh’s career is a testament to his passion for scientific discovery, education, and international collaboration. His groundbreaking research in bioorganic chemistry, combined with his leadership in academia, has left an indelible mark on the scientific community. As he continues his work, his legacy promises to inspire future generations of researchers and academics.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Design, synthesis, molecular docking, dynamics simulations, and antiviral activities of quinoline derivatives
  • Authors: Singh, V.K., Rai, S., Parihar, A.S., Schols, D., Singh, R.K.
    Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure
    Year: 2025
Design, synthesis and antimicrobial activity of novel quinoline derivatives: an in silico and in vitro study
  • Authors: Singh, V.K., Kumari, P., Som, A., Mishra, R., Singh, R.K.
    Journal: Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics
    Year: 2024
Design, docking, molecular dynamics, synthesis, and antimicrobial studies on quinoline derivatives and some isosteres
  • Authors: Singh, V.K., Ahmad, I., Patel, H., Rai, S., Singh, R.K.
    Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure
    Year: 2023
Drug repurposing and computational drug discovery for inflammatory diseases
  • Authors: Singh, V.K., Chaurasia, H., Dwivedi, J., Mishra, R., Singh, R.K.
    Book: Drug Repurposing and Computational Drug Discovery: Strategies and Advances
    Year: 2023
Exploring antiviral potency of N-1 substituted pyrimidines against HIV-1 and other DNA/RNA viruses: Design, synthesis, characterization, ADMET analysis, docking, molecular dynamics and biological activity
  • Authors: Srivastava, R., Gupta, S.K., Naaz, F., Schols, D., Singh, R.K.
    Journal: Computational Biology and Chemistry
    Year: 2023
In silico evaluation of S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine analogs as inhibitors of nsp14-viral cap N7 methyltransferase and PLpro of SARS-CoV-2: synthesis, molecular docking, physicochemical data, ADMET and molecular dynamics simulations studies
  • Authors: Srivastava, R., Panda, S.K., Sen Gupta, P.S., Singh, R.K., Srivastava, R.
    Journal: Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics
    Year: 2023