Busisiwe Vilakazi | Crop Science | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Busisiwe Vilakazi | Crop Science | Best Researcher Award

University of Mpumalanga | South Africa

Busisiwe Vilakazi is a Lecturer at the University of Mpumalanga, specializing in plant production and sustainable agriculture. She recently submitted her PhD thesis and has a master’s degree in plant production. Her research primarily focuses on food and nutrition security, climate resilience, and the role of neglected legumes in smallholder farming systems. She actively supervises postgraduate students, contributes to departmental committees, and participates in collaborative research addressing agricultural challenges. Beyond academia, she serves as an Editorial Board Member and reviewer for Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology, demonstrating her commitment to advancing agricultural knowledge and strengthening research communities globally.

Author Profile

Education 

Busisiwe Vilakazi has built a strong academic foundation in agricultural sciences. She holds a master’s degree in plant production, equipping her with in-depth knowledge of crop management, agronomy, and sustainable farming systems. She has recently completed her PhD thesis, which is under external examination, reflecting her dedication to advancing research on food security and climate resilience. Her doctoral studies focus on the integration of neglected legumes into smallholder farming systems, emphasizing crop diversification as a pathway to sustainability. This academic progression demonstrates her commitment to combining theoretical expertise with applied agricultural solutions to address pressing global challenges.

Professional Experience 

Busisiwe Vilakazi serves as a Lecturer at the University of Mpumalanga, where she teaches, mentors postgraduate students, and engages in departmental leadership. She has completed multiple research projects addressing crop diversification, resilience under climate stress, and smallholder farmer development. Her consultancy work includes a collaborative project with the Water Research Commission and Old Mutual, where she contributes to building food gardens in rural schools across South Africa to enhance food security and climate adaptation. She is also an Editorial Board Member and reviewer for international journals, further expanding her role as an academic, researcher, and thought leader in agricultural sciences.

Awards and Recognition 

Busisiwe Vilakazi is gaining recognition for her contributions to sustainable agriculture and food security research. Her work on socioeconomic drivers of crop diversification has been published in peer-reviewed journals and republished as a book chapter in the Prime Archives in Sustainability, highlighting its significance in global agricultural discussions. She is also an Editorial Board Member of Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology, a role that underscores her standing in the academic community. Her research impact, growing citation record, and involvement in prestigious collaborative projects demonstrate her potential as an emerging leader in plant sciences, meriting recognition through research and innovation awards.

Research Skills 

Busisiwe Vilakazi’s research skills encompass both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, including the use of structured questionnaires, multiple linear regression, and multivariate probit regression models. She is experienced in designing field experiments, evaluating cropping systems, and analyzing the agronomic performance of neglected legumes under various environmental conditions. Her expertise extends to assessing physiological responses of crops to water stress, seed quality, and resilience strategies for smallholder farmers. Additionally, she integrates socio-economic assessments with agronomic research to provide holistic insights. Her ability to merge applied agricultural science with community-based solutions demonstrates her multidisciplinary approach to advancing food security and climate resilience.

Publications

Vilakazi, B*., Odindo, A.O., Phophi, M.M., & Mafongoya, P.L. (2025). “Socioeconomic Factors Influencing Crop Diversification Among Smallholder Farmers in Bergville, South Africa” in Agriculture.

Vilakazi, B*., Mafongoya, P.L., Odindo, A.O., & Phophi, M.M. (2025). “The Role of Neglected Grain Legumes in Food and Nutrition Security and Human Health” in Sustainability.

Vilakazi, B*., Mafongoya, P.L., Odindo, A.O., & Phophi, M.M. (2025). “Socioeconomic Factors Influencing Smallholder Farmers’ Willingness to Cultivate Neglected Legumes and Their Selection of Suitable Planting Dates” in Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems.

Vilakazi, B*., Ogola, J.B.O., Odindo, A.O., & Ncama, K. (2023). “Water Stress Affected Seed Accumulation of Non-Reducing Soluble Sugars and Germination Performance of Three Chickpea Cultivars” in Legume Research – An International Journal,

Conclusion 

In summary, Busisiwe Vilakazi exemplifies a new generation of agricultural scientists committed to addressing global challenges of food security, climate change, and sustainability. Through her academic research, professional experience, and community-focused projects, she bridges the gap between science and practical solutions for smallholder farmers. Her work highlights the importance of neglected legumes in improving resilience, nutrition, and livelihoods. With publications in respected journals, involvement in high-impact projects, and recognition through editorial roles, she is well-positioned to make lasting contributions to agricultural development. Busisiwe Vilakazi’s career trajectory reflects dedication, innovation, and leadership in advancing sustainable food systems.

ASHISHKUMAR VALA | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. ASHISHKUMAR VALA | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

JUNAGADH AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY | INDIA

Author Profile

Scopus

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

The academic journey of this Plant Biotechnology professional began with a strong foundation in agricultural sciences, culminating in a Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology from Anand Agricultural University. Preceded by a Master’s in Agricultural Biotechnology from the same institution, this phase laid the groundwork for a career focused on plant molecular biology, genetic improvement, and advanced research. Certifications from renowned institutes, including Harvard Medical School and NIPB New Delhi, further underscore a commitment to lifelong learning and academic excellence.

👩‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

The professional career spans over 9 years of teaching and research, with the current role being an Assistant Professor in Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at Junagadh Agricultural University (JAU), Gujarat since 2015. Before that, a vital role was played as an Agriculture Officer with the Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, involving crucial analytical and technical responsibilities. Additionally, earlier work as a Senior Research Fellow at Anand Agricultural University helped refine skills in laboratory research and field applications.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

A true innovator in the field, the researcher has led multiple initiatives in plant tissue culture, molecular cloning, NGS, CRISPR-Cas9, and genetic transformation. Research has specifically focused on groundnut, rice, tomato, stevia, and castor, targeting differential gene expression and drought/stress tolerance. With deep involvement in 8+ funded projects as principal or co-investigator, they have also developed transformation vectors and optimized codon usage for gene expression efficiency. Major contributions include transcriptome analysis, PR-1a and EIN2 gene characterization, and drought-tolerant rhizobacteria identification.

🌱 Impact and Influence

Recognized with the Distinguished Scientist Award, their influence extends beyond academic borders into practical agriculture and bioresource management. Contributions like the draft genome sequencing of phytopathogen Sclerotium rolfsii show a commitment to tackling plant diseases at the molecular level. Teaching and mentoring at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels have built a pipeline of emerging scientists. The involvement in training programs for farmers and students has ensured knowledge translation to grassroots levels, boosting sustainable agriculture.

📚 Academic Cites & Projects

The researcher has presented numerous papers at national and international platforms and has authored several academic projects, including:

  • Marker-Assisted Selection in Groundnut

  • Transcriptome Analysis of Castor

  • Cloning of PR-1a and EIN2 in Tomato

  • Rhizobacteria Studies in Chickpea

  • Micropropagation of Citrus sinensis

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

An accomplished teacher and mentor, the professional has consistently engaged in guiding undergraduate and postgraduate students, fostering their research ideas and helping with project development. The experience includes curriculum design, practical lab sessions, project proposal drafting, and faculty development initiatives, ensuring academic rigor and real-world relevance.

🏅 Legacy and Future Contributions

The legacy being built is one of innovation, mentorship, and practical impact. From enhancing molecular breeding techniques to fostering biotechnology awareness among farmers, the work bridges science and society. With ongoing interest in genome editing, abiotic stress tolerance, and gene discovery via NGS, the future is poised for greater advancements in climate-resilient crops, sustainable agriculture, and cutting-edge plant genomics.

📖Publications

Altered expression levels of transcripts of GNAC TFs during drought stress in susceptible and tolerant cultivars of groundnut
  • Authors: Feba Jacob, Mahesh Mahatma, Yogita Deshmukh, Umesh K. Kandoliya, G.V. Maraviya, Meera Joshi, Ashish Vala
    Journal: Plant Stress
    Year: 2022
Unravelling the treasure trove of drought-responsive genes in wild-type peanut through transcriptomics and physiological analyses of root
  • Authors: Thoppurathu FJ, Ghorbanzadeh Z, Vala AK, Hamid R, Joshi M
    Journal: Functional & Integrative Genomics
    Year: 2022
Transcriptome analysis identifies novel gene(s) and pathways for salt stress responses in Dandi cultivar
  • Authors: Vala AK, Bano N, Deshmukh Y, Tomar RS, Joshi CG, Subhash N
    Journal: Cereal Research Communications
    Year: 2022
Water deficit stress enhances the bioactive compounds of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) kernels at the expense of primary metabolites
  • Authors: Solanki M.V., Mahatma M.K., Varma A., Thawait L.K., Singh S., Jangir C.K., Ashish Vala, Kandoliya U.K.
    Journal: Food Bioscience
    Year: 2024
System-wide analysis of groundnut’s salinity resilience: Integrating plant-cell interactions with environmental stress dynamics through cutting-edge transcriptomics
  • Authors: Meera K Joshi, Gopal V Marviya, Feba Jacob, Umesh K Kandoliya, Priyanka M Pandya, Ashish G Vala
    Journal: Journal of Biotechnology
    Year: 2024

Guo Shuchun | Plant Genetics | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Prof. Guo Shuchun | Plant Genetics | Outstanding Scientist Award

Science and Crop Science Research Institute of Inner Mongolia University of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry | China

Author Profile

Scopus

🌟  Suitable for this Outstanding Scientist Award

Dr. Guo Shuchun, born in November 1981, is an influential scientist in the National Characteristic Oil Industry Technology System. With a PhD in Science from Inner Mongolia University, he has carved a strong reputation in the field of crop genetics, breeding, and agricultural industrialization. He serves as a master’s supervisor and was selected for the prestigious “Western Light” Visiting Scholar program. Over his career, Dr. Guo has been deeply engaged in the advancement of genetic innovation and renewable energy integration in agriculture, developing nine new crop varieties and drafting critical industry standards. His commitment is evident in his over 30 scholarly publications, 20+ patents, and multiple awards. His research bridges science and sustainable development, marking him as a leader of tomorrow.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Guo Shuchun earned his Doctorate in Science from Inner Mongolia University, where he specialized in crop science, with a keen interest in plant genetics and sustainability. His academic foundation was strengthened through interdisciplinary training, combining principles of agronomy, biotechnology, and environmental science. He actively pursued research projects during his PhD that explored gene regulation in oil crops, bioenergy potential, and the intersection of plant pathology with climate resilience. His post-doctoral learning was further enriched by the “Western Light” program, granting him exposure to global research methodologies. As a lifelong learner, he has continued his academic pursuits through various national-level symposiums, certifications, and workshops that enhance his technical acumen in plant breeding, renewable energy integration in agriculture, and bio-based innovations.

 💼  Professional Experience

Dr. Guo has served as a leading scientist in the National Characteristic Oil Industry Technology System for over a decade. He has led more than 30 national and regional research initiatives, focusing on crop genetics, renewable bio-resources, and sustainable agricultural practices. A mentor to young researchers, he has guided numerous graduate students as a master’s supervisor. He developed nine crop varieties adapted for arid climates and integrated renewable energy solutions into crop production systems. Dr. Guo also spearheaded the formulation of a national industry standard and nine local ones, reflecting his role in policy and innovation. His collaborations span academia, government, and industry, ensuring that his work results in tangible field-level transformation. His contributions have made significant inroads in sustainable agriculture and the biotechnological use of native crops in energy production.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Guo Shuchun has received several prestigious recognitions for his contributions to science and technology. Notable accolades include selection as a “Western Light” Visiting Scholar and honors for excellence in agricultural innovation from the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. His patented work in plant breeding and renewable integration has earned him multiple awards in innovation and intellectual property. With over 20 patents and 12 registered scientific achievements, he stands among the top contributors to sustainable agricultural biotechnology in China. His work on local and national standards development has been commended by agricultural ministries, while academic institutions have lauded his publication record. He has been invited as a keynote speaker in national symposia and serves as a reviewer for international journals on crop science, bioenergy, and sustainable systems. His recognitions reflect not just academic brilliance but applied solutions benefiting farmers and the agri-energy sector.

🌍Research skills On Plant Genetics

Dr. Guo’s research skills encompass molecular breeding, gene editing, renewable energy integration in agriculture, and plant pathology management. His pioneering work in improving oil crop genetics for higher bioenergy yield while maintaining disease resistance is notable. He exhibits strong capabilities in multi-disciplinary project management, having led over 30 science and technology projects across China. His analytical skills extend to data modeling, genetic sequencing, and field-level agronomic trials. Dr. Guo’s work often merges AI-based phenotyping with traditional breeding, ensuring high efficiency and productivity. His research is also deeply collaborative, involving industry partnerships and governmental projects, which ensures practical implementation. His recent work explores plant-microbe interactions under solar-integrated farming systems. With a futuristic vision, he is also exploring CRISPR applications and renewable-powered greenhouses. He remains committed to scientific innovation for climate-smart agriculture.

📖Publications

Discovery of a novel class anti-proliferative agents and potential inhibitors of EGFR tyrosine kinases based on 4-anilinotetrahydropyrido[4,3-d]pyrimidine scaffold: Design, synthesis and biological evaluations
  • Authors: Kai Zhang, Meng Zhao, Claudia Felser, Ping Gong, Mingze Qin
  • Journal: Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
  • Year: 2015

MOHAMED MOTAWEI | Plant Biotechnology | Excellence in Plant Research

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. MOHAMED MOTAWEI | Plant Biotechnology | Excellence in Plant Research

Qassim university, Saudi Arabia

Author Profile

Scopus
Orcid ID

🌟  Suitable for this Excellence in Plant Research

Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Motawei, an Associate Professor at Qassim University, specializes in Plant Breeding and Biotechnology. His expertise in molecular markers, genetic mapping, and QTL analysis has significantly advanced agricultural research. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, his research has contributed to improving drought-resistant crops and genetic fingerprinting techniques.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Motawei holds a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding and Molecular Genetics from Alexandria University, Egypt, in collaboration with Bologna University, Italy (1996). His research focused on molecular markers for crop improvement. He earned an M.Sc. in Crop Physiology (1990) and a B.Sc. in Agriculture (1985) from Alexandria University, Egypt. His doctoral and postdoctoral studies have laid a strong foundation in genetic engineering, DNA markers, and abiotic stress resistance in crops. His academic journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing plant biotechnology.

 💼  Professional Experience

Dr. Motawei has served as a Professor at Alexandria University and an Associate Professor at Qassim University, Saudi Arabia. His career includes roles as Assistant Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Research Scientist specializing in plant genomics, molecular breeding, and biotechnology applications. His teaching experience spans over 30 years, covering genetics, plant breeding, and molecular markers. Additionally, he has led several funded research projects focused on wheat genetic resistance, plant tissue culture, and biotechnology applications in agriculture. His contributions have significantly impacted crop improvement and agricultural sustainability.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Motawei has received prestigious grants and recognitions for his research contributions, including:

  • King Abdul-Aziz City for Science and Technology Research Grant for molecular studies on wheat resistance.
  • U.S.-Egypt Joint Science & Technology Grant for wheat biotechnology research.
  • Center of Excellence in Biotechnology Research Grant for molecular fingerprinting of cereal cyst nematodes.
  • Recognized by international conferences such as Plant & Genome IX, InterDrought, and BioVision Alexandria.
    His work has enhanced agricultural biotechnology applications and improved genetic diversity studies in staple crops.

🌍Research skills On Plant Biotechnology 

Dr. Motawei is an expert in molecular markers (RFLP, RAPD, SSR, ISSR, SNP), QTL mapping, and genetic fingerprinting. He applies biotechnological tools for crop improvement, focusing on abiotic stress resistance, gene mapping, and plant tissue culture. His research integrates bioinformatics, genome editing, and molecular diagnostics to develop resilient crop varieties. He has also contributed to biotechnology-based breeding programs aimed at increasing crop yield and stress tolerance. His expertise extends to teaching advanced genetics, experimental design, and DNA-based breeding techniques.

📖Publications

Investigation of the Magnesium Content and Productivity of Wheat Genotypes Under Organic and Conventional Inorganic Fertilizer Application
  • Journal: Life
  • Year: 2025
  • Authors: Essam M. Abd-Elmoniem, Nasser S. Al-Ghumaiz, Mohamad I. Motawei, Soleman Al-Otayk, Mokded Rabhi
Exploring molecular variation and combining ability of local and exotic bread wheat genotypes under well-watered and drought conditions
  • Journal: PeerJ
  • Year: 2025
  • Authors: Mohamed I. Motawei, Mohamed M. Kamara, Medhat Rehan
Water productivity and growth parameters of Fawn-tall fescue and Tekapo-orchard grass under deficit irrigation in arid zones
  • Journal: Brazilian Journal of Biology
  • Year: 2024
  • Authors: A. M. Alzoheiry, N. S. AL Ghumaiz, M. I. Motawei, M. A. Kassem
Nutritional Composition and Productivity of Panicum maximum cv. “Mombasa” Under Different Levels of Nitrogen Fertilization and Water Deficit
  • Journal: Life
  • Year: 2024
  • Authors: Saleh Alsunaydi, Abdulaziz B. Alharbi, Abdulrahman A. Al-Soqeer, Mohamed I. Motawei
Characterization of Improved Barley Germplasm under Desert Environments Using Agro-Morphological and SSR Markers
  • Journal: Agronomy
  • Year: 2024
  • Authors: Abdelhalim I. Ghazy, Mohamed A. Ali, Eid I. Ibrahim, Mohammed Sallam, Talal K. Al Ateeq, Ibrahim Al-Ashkar, Mohamed I. Motawei, Hussein Abdel-Haleem, Abdullah A. Al-Doss