Mounia ENNAMI | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof . Mounia ENNAMI | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

IAV Hassan II | Morocco

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🌱 DR. ENNAMI MOUNIA: A PIONEERING SCHOLAR IN PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY 

INTRODUCTION

Dr. Ennami Mounia is a distinguished Assistant Professor at the Production, Protection, and Biotechnology Plant Department of the Agronomic and Veterinary Institute Hassan II in Rabat, Morocco. With a profound dedication to agronomy and plant biotechnology, she has significantly contributed to research and education in her field. Her expertise lies in microbial biotechnology, plant protection, and sustainable agricultural practices, making her an influential figure in modern agronomic sciences.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Mounia’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology for Health and Food Safety from Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez (2010). She then pursued a Master’s degree in Microbial Biotechnology from the same institution (2012), equipping herself with essential knowledge in microbiology and biotechnology. Her passion for research led her to earn a Ph.D. in Agronomy from the Hassan II Institute of Agronomy & Veterinary Medicine (IAV) and the National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA) in Rabat, Morocco (2018). Her doctoral research, conducted under the prestigious MEDILEG project, was a significant milestone in her academic career.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Mounia’s professional journey reflects her dedication to academia and research:

  • 2021–Present: Assistant Professor at the Production, Protection, and Biotechnology Plant Department, Agronomic and Veterinary Institute Hassan II – Rabat, Morocco.
  • 2020–2021: Assistant Professor at the Horticultural Department, Agronomic and Veterinary Institute Hassan II – Agadir Horticultural Campus, Morocco.
  • 2019 & 2023: Temporary Professor at the University Mohamed V, Faculty of Sciences, specializing in food science and biostatistics.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Plant Genetics

Dr. Mounia’s research focuses on the sustainable management of plant diseases, genetic diversity, and biotechnological advancements in plant protection. She has been actively involved in multiple high-impact research projects:

  • BONEX Project (2023-Present): Funded by PRIMA, this project aims to provide practical tools for implementing the WEFE (Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem) nexus in the Mediterranean.
  • Projet Prima (2024–2027): Researching innovative nanotechnology and magnetic-filtration techniques for improving irrigation efficiency.
  • Irasmus Project (2021–2024): Strengthening agri-entrepreneurship and community engagement in Africa.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Mounia’s work has significantly influenced plant biotechnology and agronomic sciences. Her research on Orobanche crenata, a parasitic plant affecting legumes, has provided novel insights into plant resistance mechanisms. Her contributions to sustainable agricultural practices have been recognized at national and international levels, impacting both academia and practical farming applications.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Mounia has authored several peer-reviewed publications, including:

  • Studies on genetic diversity and resistance mechanisms of Orobanche crenata.
  • Investigations into the use of Ziziphus lotus fruit for heavy metal removal from water.
  • Research on the induction of plant resistance through exogenous application of growth regulators. Her publications in esteemed journals, such as Pest Management Science, Journal of Agricultural Science, and Crop Protection, highlight her expertise and dedication to advancing agronomic sciences.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Prestigious research grants from PRIMA and ERA-Net.
  • Invitations to present at international conferences, such as the International Food Legumes Research Conference.
  • Recognition for her pioneering work in plant protection and biotechnology.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking ahead, Dr. Mounia aims to further her research on biotechnological interventions in agriculture, focusing on genetic improvements and eco-friendly plant protection techniques. With her dedication and expertise, she will continue to influence the global agronomic and biotechnology landscapes.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Ennami Mounia is a leading force in agronomic research, dedicated to enhancing sustainable agricultural practices through innovative biotechnology solutions. Her academic and professional contributions continue to shape the future of plant protection and biotechnology.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) in Morocco Revealed by Sequence-Related Amplified Polymorphism Markers
  • Authors: Mounia Ennami, Khadija Khouya, Houda Taimourya, Abdellah Benbya, Mohamed Kaddi, Slimane Khayi, Ghizlan Diria, Rabha Abdelwahd, Fatima Gaboun, Rachid Mentag
  • Journal: Horticulturae
  • Year: 2025
Enhancing Rooting Efficiency and Nutrient Uptake in Rosa damascena Mill. Cuttings: Insights into Auxin and Cutting Type Optimization
  • Authors: Soumia El Malahi, Noureddine Sbah, Jamaa Zim, Mounia Ennami, Bahija Zakri, Wafaa Mokhtari, Houda Taimourya, Mimoun Mokhtari, Lalla Mina Idrissi Hassani
  • Journal: Plant Science Today
  • Year: 2023
Effects of Salicylic Acid and Indole Acetic Acid Exogenous Applications on Induction of Faba Bean Resistance Against Orobanche crenata
  • Authors: Mounia Ennami
  • Journal: The Plant Pathology Journal
  • Year: 2020
Growth-Defense Tradeoffs and Source-Sink Relationship During Both Faba Bean and Lentil Interactions with Orobanche crenata Forsk
  • Authors: Mounia Ennami
  • Journal: Crop Protection
  • Year: 2020
Characterization of Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Moroccan Lentil Cultivars and Landraces Using Molecular Markers
  • Authors: Mounia Ennami
  • Journal: Physiology and Molecular Biology of Plants
  • Year: 2019

 

PRADEEP CHAND | Plant Biotechnology | Lifetime Achievement Award

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Prof. PRADEEP CHAND | Plant Biotechnology | Lifetime Achievement Award

Utkal University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India

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INTRODUCTION

Professor (Dr.) Pradeep Kumar Chand is a distinguished academician, researcher, and administrator with an illustrious career spanning over four decades. His expertise in Plant Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering has positioned him as a leading figure in his field. Having served as the Vice-Chancellor of North Orissa University and contributed significantly to research and higher education in India, his legacy continues to inspire scholars worldwide.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Born on April 13, 1957, in Odisha, India, Professor Chand demonstrated academic excellence from an early age. He obtained his B.Sc. in Botany (First Class, First Rank) in 1976 and an M.Sc. in Botany (First Class, First Rank) in 1978 from Utkal University. Pursuing his passion for scientific research, he earned a Ph.D. in Science from the University of Nottingham, UK, in 1988, specializing in the genetic engineering of Solanum dulcamara L. under the guidance of esteemed scientists Prof. Edward Charles Daniel Cocking, Dr. Michael Raymond Davey, and Dr. John Brian Power.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Professor Chand embarked on his academic career as a Lecturer in the Post Graduate Department of Botany at Utkal University in 1979. Over the years, he ascended through various academic ranks, serving as a Reader in 1992 and achieving the title of Professor in 2000. His career has also included research stints at internationally renowned institutions, including:

  • University of Nottingham, UK
  • International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Philippines
  • University of Delhi South Campus, India
  • University of New Hampshire, USA

As Chairperson of NAAC Peer Teams, he has played a pivotal role in the accreditation and quality assessment of higher educational institutions across India.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Plant Biotechnology

Professor Chand’s research is centered on Plant Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, with significant contributions to:

  • Plant Cell, Tissue & Organ Culture – Rapid mass multiplication of elite plant varieties
  • Protoplast Fusion & Somatic Hybridization – Enhancing plant genetic diversity
  • Genetic Transformation – Agrobacterium-mediated and direct gene transfer techniques
  • DNA Fingerprinting – Genetic diversity estimation and population structure analysis
  • Green Chemistry Applications – Utilizing biogenic nanosilver crystals for environmental and medical applications

His pioneering work in in vitro plant regeneration, somatic embryogenesis, and genetic transformation has contributed immensely to the development of stress-tolerant and disease-resistant crop varieties.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

With over 37 years of experience, Professor Chand has mentored and guided numerous Ph.D. (22 awarded) and M.Phil. (28 awarded) students. His dedication to research and teaching has significantly advanced biotechnology and plant sciences. His leadership roles in academia have facilitated the growth of research infrastructure, international collaborations, and curriculum development in Indian higher education.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Professor Chand has authored numerous high-impact research papers, book chapters, and conference proceedings. His publications are widely cited, reflecting his influential contributions to plant biotechnology. He has also served as a reviewer and editorial board member for esteemed scientific journals.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • INSA Visiting Fellowship – Indian National Science Academy
  • SERC Visiting Fellowship – Department of Science & Technology, Govt. of India
  • Biotechnology Overseas Associate Fellowship – Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India
  • Prestigious Research Fellowships at leading international institutions
  • Chairperson, NAAC Peer Teams for higher education accreditation

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As a visionary scientist and educator, Professor Chand’s work will remain a cornerstone of plant biotechnology advancements. His focus on integrating scientific research with real-world applications promises continued contributions to agriculture, environmental sustainability, and genetic engineering innovations.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Professor P. K. Chand’s dedication to research, education, and academic leadership has left an indelible mark on the scientific community. His work continues to influence plant biotechnology and sustainable agricultural practices worldwide. His efforts in mentoring the next generation of scientists ensure that his legacy will persist for years to come.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 


Hexavalent chromium bioaccumulation mediated enhancement of pyrethrin production in African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.): a promising plant for phytoremediation
  • Authors: B. Pradhan, Bismita; P.K. Chand, Pradeep Kumar; A.B. Das, Anath Bandhu
    Journal: Acta Physiologiae Plantarum
    Year: 2023
 Silver Nanocrystals Bio-Fabricated Using Rhizobium rhizogenes-Transformed In Vitro Root Extracts Demonstrate Health Proactive Properties
  • Authors: S. Begum, Shahani; S. Jena, Somanatha; P.K. Chand, Pradeep Kumar
    Journal: BioNanoScience
    Year: 2022
Anthropogenic Interventions Regulate Forest Structure and Carbon Stock in Transitional Dry Forests of Similipal Biosphere Reserve, India
  • Authors: M.R. Mohanta, Manas Ranjan; Y. Rout, Yasaswinee; B.K. Pradhan, Bikram K.; P.K. Chand, Pradeep Kumar; S.C. Sahu, Sudam Charan
    Journal: Ecoscience
    Year: 2022
 Nanosilver Particles Coated with Sida acuta Burm. f. Transformed ‘Hairy Root’ Extract for Efficient Biocatalytic Degradation of Organic Dyes
  • Authors: S. Begum, Shahani; B. Nayak, Bismita; P.K. Chand, Pradeep Kumar
    Journal: Journal of Cluster Science
    Year: 2022
DNA marker-based auditing of genetic diversity and population structuring of Indian mango (Mangifera indica L.) elites
  • Authors: R.C. Jena, Ram Chandra; P.K. Chand, Pradeep Kumar
    Journal: Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution
    Year: 2022

 

Rahmatullah Jan | Plant Physiology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Rahmatullah Jan | Plant Physiology | Best Researcher Award

Kyungpook Natinal University, Korea

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BIOGRAPHY OF RAHMATULLAH JAN 🌿

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Rahmatullah Jan was born on March 15, 1989, in Pakistan. His passion for botany and plant sciences was evident from an early age, propelling him toward a journey of academic excellence. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Botany from Kohat University of Science & Technology in 2013, focusing on ethnomedicinal plants of District Charsadda. Continuing his academic pursuit, he completed his M.Phil. in Plant Physiology in 2015, where he optimized fertilizers and hormonal doses for better growth of Jatropha curcas L.. His academic career culminated in a Ph.D. in Applied Biosciences in 2020 from Kyungpook National University, South Korea. His groundbreaking thesis explored alterations in the phenylpropanoid pathway to enhance biotic stress tolerance in plants.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Jan currently serves as an Assistant Research Professor at Kyungpook National University, South Korea. He began his professional journey as a Post-Doctoral Researcher at the same institution, designing and executing projects in plant molecular breeding. Over the years, he has taught and mentored numerous Master’s and Ph.D. students, nurturing the next generation of researchers in plant sciences.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 

Dr. Jan’s research is at the forefront of plant molecular breeding and stress physiology. He has extensively studied plant responses to biotic and abiotic stresses, employing advanced techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, RNA-seq analysis, and metabolomics. His work emphasizes enhancing plant resilience through genetic and metabolic engineering, particularly in rice and maize. His innovative research integrates transcriptomic and hormonal re-orchestration, contributing significantly to sustainable agriculture.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Jan’s contributions have had a profound impact on global agricultural practices. His pioneering research on flavonoid accumulation, stress tolerance, and plant-microbe interactions has set benchmarks in the field. He is a sought-after collaborator in international research projects and has delivered key insights into improving crop resilience against climate change-induced stresses.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Jan has an impressive portfolio of over 40 publications in high-impact journals, including Scientific Reports, Frontiers in Plant Science, and Antioxidants. His work has garnered extensive citations, reflecting its global recognition and influence. As both a corresponding and first author, he has advanced the understanding of stress physiology, genome editing, and metabolomic pathways.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • MSCA4Ukraine Postdoctoral Fellowship (2023)
  • FEBS Excellence Award (2019)
  • Stipend of the President of Ukraine for Young Scientists (2020)
  • Research Excellence Recognition from Kyungpook National University (2022)

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Jan continues to inspire with his transformative research. His future endeavors aim to revolutionize plant molecular breeding, addressing global food security challenges through innovative approaches. With a vision rooted in sustainability, he is poised to leave an enduring legacy in plant science.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Rahmatullah Jan’s career exemplifies dedication to advancing plant science and sustainable agriculture. His unwavering commitment to research, teaching, and innovation has made him a distinguished figure in his field. His expertise bridges the gap between molecular biology and practical agricultural applications, fostering resilient and sustainable food systems.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Exogenous melatonin induces salt and drought stress tolerance in rice by promoting plant growth and defense system
  • Authors: Khan, Zakirullah; Jan, Rahmatullah; Asif, Saleem; Farooq, Muhammad; Jang, Yoon-Hee; Kim, Eun-Gyeong; Kim, Nari; Kim, Kyung-Min
  • Journal: Scientific Reports
  • Year: 2024
Plastome diversity and evolution in mosses: Insights from structural characterization, comparative genomics, and phylogenetic analysis
  • Authors: Lubna; Asaf, Sajjad; Jan, Rahmatullah; Asif, Saleem; Bilal, Saqib; Khan, Abdul Latif; Kim, Kyung-Min; Lee, In-Jung; AL-Harrasi, Ahmed
  • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
  • Year: 2024
The complete plastome sequences of invasive weed Parthenium hysterophorus: genome organization, evolutionary significance, structural features, and comparative analysis
  • Authors: Asaf, Sajjad; Jan, Rahmatullah; Asif, Saleem; Bilal, Saqib; Khan, Abdul Latif; Al-Rawahi, Ahmed N.; Kim, Kyung-Min; AL-Harrasi, Ahmed
  • Journal: Scientific Reports
  • Year: 2024
The complete plastome sequences of invasive weed Parthenium hysterophorus: genome organization, evolutionary significance, structural features, and comparative analysis (vol 14, 4006, 2024)
  • Authors: Lubna; Asaf, Sajjad; Jan, Rahmatullah; Asif, Saleem; Bilal, Saqib; Khan, Abdul Latif; Al-Rawahi, Ahmed N.; Kim, Kyung-Min; AL-Harrasi, Ahmed
  • Journal: Scientific Reports
  • Year: 2024

 

 

Om Prakash Gupta | Plant Biotechnology | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Dr. Om Prakash Gupta | Plant Biotechnology | Outstanding Scientist Award

ICAR-indian institute of wheat and Barley research | India

Author Profile

Om Prakash Gupta, Ph.D., ARS, FSAWBAR 🌾

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Om Prakash Gupta began his academic journey with a B.Sc. (Ag.) Hons from Chandra Sekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, where he earned multiple honors. He pursued his M.Sc. in Biochemistry at ICAR-IARI, specializing in plant biochemistry, followed by a Ph.D. in the same field. His doctoral research focused on isoflavone biosynthesis in soybean seeds, laying the foundation for his current work in crop biochemistry.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Gupta’s professional career spans multiple roles at ICAR-IIWBR, Karnal, where he advanced from Scientist to Senior Scientist. His expertise in plant biochemistry has been pivotal in several research projects aimed at enhancing wheat and barley quality. Dr. Gupta has worked on stress tolerance mechanisms, biofortification, and wheat genotypic responses, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and improving crop quality.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Plant Biotechnology

Dr. Gupta’s research centers on understanding plant biochemical pathways, particularly those related to stress tolerance in wheat and barley. His work on enhancing nutritional quality, including iron and zinc biofortification in wheat, has far-reaching implications for food security. His ongoing projects continue to unravel the molecular mechanisms underpinning crop resilience and nutritional enhancement, making a significant impact on global food systems.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Gupta’s work has influenced global agricultural practices, especially in the areas of crop quality and stress resilience. His pioneering research in wheat biofortification has led to improved varieties of wheat with enhanced nutritional profiles. By publishing widely and engaging in international collaborations, he has established himself as a key figure in agricultural research, particularly in cereal crops. His contributions help ensure food security and sustainability.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Gupta’s academic career is marked by an impressive number of publications in top-tier journals, including the Journal of King Saud University and Frontiers in Nutrition. His research papers focus on topics like wheat biofortification, stress tolerance, and nutrient bioavailability. Notable papers include “Unraveling Wheat Genotypic Responses” and “Critical Assessment of Wheat Biofortification.” His Google Scholar and ResearchGate profiles feature a growing citation count, highlighting the global relevance of his work.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

Dr. Gupta has received numerous accolades for his contributions to agricultural research, including the Jawahar Lal Nehru Award for Best Doctoral Thesis in Biotechnology. Other notable awards include the Krishi Vigyan Gaurav Award, Fellow status from the Society for Advancement of Wheat and Barley Research, and Best Oral Presentation Awards at international symposiums. His awards reflect the high regard in which he is held within the scientific community.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Gupta’s future work will likely continue to focus on enhancing crop quality and stress tolerance. His research on wheat and barley biofortification promises to improve global food security. His legacy includes his innovative approaches to plant biochemistry and molecular research, which have significantly impacted agricultural science. As a mentor, his influence on the next generation of scientists will ensure the sustainability of his contributions.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Om Prakash Gupta is a leading scientist in the field of plant biochemistry, with a focus on improving wheat and barley crops through biotechnological innovations. His numerous accolades and extensive publication record reflect his dedication to enhancing crop quality and resilience. Through his research, Dr. Gupta is helping to pave the way for more sustainable and nutritious agricultural practices.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

“Challenges and opportunities in productivity and sustainability of rice cultivation system: a critical review in Indian perspective”

  • Authors: N. Kumar, R. S. Chhokar, R. P. Meena, A. S. Kharub, S. C. Gill, S. C. Tripathi, …
  • Journal: Cereal Research Communications
  • Year: 2021

“Fascinating role of silicon to combat salinity stress in plants: An updated overview”

  • Authors: P. Dhiman, N. Rajora, S. Bhardwaj, S. S. Sudhakaran, A. Kumar, G. Raturi, …
  • Journal: Plant Physiology and Biochemistry
  • Year: 2021

“RNA interference: a novel source of resistance to combat plant parasitic nematodes”

  • Authors: S. Banerjee, A. Banerjee, S. S. Gill, O. P. Gupta, A. Dahuja, P. K. Jain, A. Sirohi
  • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science
  • Year: 2017

“Contemporary understanding of miRNA-based regulation of secondary metabolites biosynthesis in plants”

  • Authors: O. P. Gupta, S. G. Karkute, S. Banerjee, N. L. Meena, A. Dahuja
  • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science
  • Year: 2017

“CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genome engineering for improvement of horticultural crops”

  • Authors: S. G. Karkute, A. K. Singh, O. P. Gupta, P. M. Singh, B. Singh
  • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science
  • Year: 2017

“Enhancing wheat production – A global perspective”

  • Authors: I. Sharma, B. S. Tyagi, G. Singh, K. Venkatesh, O. P. Gupta
  • Journal: The Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences
  • Year: 2015

“MicroRNA mediated regulation of metal toxicity in plants: present status and future perspectives”

  • Authors: O. P. Gupta, P. Sharma, R. K. Gupta, I. Sharma
  • Journal: Plant Molecular Biology
  • Year: 2014

“Current status on role of miRNAs during plant–fungus interaction”

  • Authors: O. P. Gupta, P. Sharma, R. K. Gupta, I. Sharma
  • Journal: Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology
  • Year: 2014

“Differential regulation of microRNAs in response to osmotic, salt and cold stresses in wheat”

  • Authors: O. P. Gupta, N. L. Meena, I. Sharma, P. Sharma
  • Journal: Molecular Biology Reports
  • Year: 2014

“MicroRNA regulated defense responses in Triticum aestivum L. during Puccinia graminis f.sp. tritici infection”

  • Authors: O. P. Gupta, V. Permar, V. Koundal, U. D. Singh, S. Praveen
  • Journal: Molecular Biology Reports
  • Year: 2012