PRADEEP CHAND | Plant Biotechnology | Lifetime Achievement Award

Prof. PRADEEP CHAND | Plant Biotechnology | Lifetime Achievement Award

Utkal University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India

Author Profile

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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

 

Hafiz Umer Javed | Horticultural Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hafiz Umer Javed | Horticultural Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hafiz Umer Javed, Beibu Gulf University, China

Dr. Hafiz Umer Javed is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Beibu Gulf University, China, specializing in food biotechnology, postharvest physiology, and fruit storage technology. He holds a PhD in Postharvest-Viticulture from China Agricultural University and has accumulated extensive experience working on various international research projects. His expertise encompasses the effects of plant-based compounds on fruit quality, as well as post-harvest techniques for improving the shelf life of fruits like mangoes, tomatoes, and raisins. Dr. Javed has published widely in food chemistry, postharvest science, and horticultural journals, contributing valuable insights into the science of food preservation and quality enhancement.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Suitable for Best researcher award

Dr. Hafiz Umer Javed stands out as a strong candidate for a best researcher award, given his extensive background in food biotechnology, food biochemistry, and postharvest physiology, particularly focused on viticulture and postharvest technologies. With a Ph.D. in Postharvest-Viticulture from China Agricultural University and significant research experience in analyzing volatile compounds in fruits, he has contributed to critical advancements in understanding aroma development and shelf-life enhancement in horticultural products. His research skills extend to applying advanced techniques like GC-MS for volatile compound profiling, and his published work has provided valuable insights into postharvest quality and storage improvements.

🎓 Education

Dr. Hafiz Umer Javed completed his PhD in Postharvest-Viticulture from China Agricultural University in 2019, where his research focused on the generation mechanisms of aroma compounds from fatty acid oxidation in raisins. Prior to his doctoral studies, he earned a Master’s degree in Post-harvest from the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, where he worked on the performance of mangoes under non-chilling storage conditions. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture from PMAS-Arid Agriculture University of Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Dr. Javed’s academic background has equipped him with a strong foundation in food biotechnology, food chemistry, and postharvest management, with a particular focus on fruit and vegetable storage technology.

💼 Professional Experience 

Dr. Hafiz Umer Javed has gained substantial professional experience through research and teaching roles. He worked as a Lecturer at the University of Lahore, Pakistan, before moving to China, where he worked as a Research Assistant and Post-doc at Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering. In this role, he studied the effect of plant-based compounds on litchi and longan fruit quality, as well as plant preservation methods for tomatoes. Dr. Javed’s professional experience also includes a research collaboration with the Australian Government on the Mango Value Chain Improvement Project, where he focused on improving mango quality from harvest to market. Furthermore, during his internship at Bayer Crop Sciences, he contributed to research on pesticide effects and nutrient application for improved vegetable quality.

🏅Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Hafiz Umer Javed has received several accolades in recognition of his academic and research achievements. He was awarded the best performance certificate at the Summer School on Pre- and Post-harvest Technology of Temperate Fruit organized by the University of Hohenheim, Germany, DAAD, and ISHS in 2018. Dr. Javed also won the best poster presentation award at the 5th International Horticulture Research Conference in Beijing, China, in 2018. His research on mangoes and raisins has been acknowledged in various international forums, further enhancing his reputation as a leader in the field of postharvest science. Dr. Javed has been honored as an excellent student at the International Conference of Botany in Pakistan and continues to contribute to the global academic community.

  🌍 Research Skills On Horticultural Science

Dr. Hafiz Umer Javed possesses extensive research skills in postharvest physiology, food biotechnology, and fruit storage technology. He is proficient in designing and executing lab and field experiments related to the management of fruit and vegetable crops, with expertise in preharvest factors that influence quality, as well as postharvest techniques like edible coatings, hot water treatments, and cold storage. Dr. Javed is skilled in monitoring biochemical, phytochemical, and enzymatic changes in stored produce, utilizing advanced tools such as refractometers, penetrometers, colorimeters, and gas chromatographs. His research also includes sensory evaluations and studies on fruit disease prevention. His expertise in evaluating the impact of various environmental factors on fruit quality and longevity, along with his knowledge of applying plant-based chemicals to reduce fungal decay, positions him as an expert in postharvest technology and food preservation.

 📖 Publication Top Note’s

“Dietary supplementation of poly-dihydromyricetin-fused zinc nanoparticles alleviates fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome by improving antioxidant capacity, intestinal health, and lipid metabolism of laying hens”

  • Authors: Yang, Y., Shu, X., Javed, H.U., Han, J., Zhou, H.
    Journal: Poultry Science
    Year: 2024
    Volume/Issue: 103(12), 104301

“A comprehensive meta-analysis exploring the potential of GABA for postharvest chilling injury mitigation in horticultural produce”

  • Authors: Javed, H.U., Liu, Y.-S., Shi, P., You, G., Ali, S.
    Journal: Scientia Horticulturae
    Year: 2024
    Volume/Issue: 338, 113558

“Cross-linking Arenga pinnata starch and chitosan by citric acid: Structure and properties”

  • Authors: Liu, Y.-S., Shi, P., Javed, H.U., Ren, M.-H., Fu, Z.
    Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
    Year: 2024
    Volume/Issue: 280, 136098

“Dietary Dihydromyricetin Zinc Chelate Supplementation Improves the Intestinal Health of Magang Geese”

  • Authors: Wang, R., Ren, Y., Javad, H.U., Jiang, W., Shu, X.
    Journal: Biological Trace Element Research
    Year: 2024
    Volume/Issue: 202(11), pp. 5219–5234

“A novel synthesized Vanillin-Based Deep Eutectic Agent (V-DEA) mitigates postharvest fungal decay and improves shelf life and quality of cherry tomatoes”

  • Authors: Javed, H.U., Kularathnage, N.D., Du, J., Shu, X., Zeng, L.-Y.
    Journal: Food Chemistry
    Year: 2024
    Volume/Issue: 453, 139612

“Aromatic Perspectives: An In-Depth review on Extracting, Influencing Factors, and the Origins of Raisin Aromas”

  • Authors: Javed, H.U., Liu, Y.-S., Hao, J.-G., Hayat, F., Hasan, M.
    Journal: Food Chemistry: X
    Year: 2024
    Volume/Issue: 22, 101285

“Advances in Hypobaric Storage of Fresh Horticultural Produce”

  • Authors: Khalid, S., Rashad Javeed, H.M., Javed, H.U.
    Book: Sustainable Postharvest Technologies for Fruits and Vegetables
    Year: 2024
    Pages: 169–184

“Growth Performance of and Liver Function in Heat-Stressed Magang Geese Fed the Antioxidant Zinc Ascorbate and Its Potential Mechanism of Action”

  • Authors: Ren, Y., Sun, Y., Javad, H.U., Shu, X., Li, C.
    Journal: Biological Trace Element Research
    Year: 2024

“Melatonin: A promising approach to enhance abiotic stress tolerance in horticultural plants”

  • Authors: Ahmad, J., Hayat, F., Khan, U., Tu, P., Chen, J.
    Journal: South African Journal of Botany
    Year: 2024
    Volume/Issue: 164, pp. 66–76

“Recent advances in self-assembly behaviors of prolamins and their applications as functional delivery vehicles”

  • Authors: Abdullah, Fang, J., Liu, X., Huang, Q., Xiao, J.
    Journal: Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition
    Year: 2024
    Volume/Issue: 64(4), pp. 1015–1042