Amir Khoddamzadeh | Horticultural Science | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Amir Khoddamzadeh | Horticultural Science | Best Researcher Award

Florida International University | United States

Dr. Amir Ali Khoddamzadeh is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Earth and Environment at Florida International University. He leads the Conservation and Sustainable Horticulture Lab, which focuses on advancing practical, science-based solutions to address environmental challenges. His multidisciplinary research covers plant tissue culture, seed technology, gene banking, cryopreservation, and the application of optical sensor technologies for precision horticulture. With extensive international experience, he has contributed to sustainable practices for conservation, urban horticulture, and crop production. His work bridges fundamental plant science with applied strategies, benefiting stakeholders from botanical gardens to the global agricultural community.

Author Profiles

Orcid 

Education

Dr. Khoddamzadeh earned his Ph.D. in Agricultural Biotechnology (Conservation Horticulture) from University Putra Malaysia, where his dissertation advanced plant tissue culture, synthetic seed production, and cryopreservation in orchids. He holds a Master’s degree in Agricultural Engineering (Plant Production – Ecophysiology) from Azad University, Tehran, focusing on drought stress responses in soybean cultivars. He also completed his Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering – Plant Production at Azad University. His academic journey reflects a strong foundation in crop physiology, biotechnology, and conservation horticulture. This blend of training positioned him to develop cutting-edge solutions in plant conservation, climate adaptation, and sustainable agriculture.

Professional Experience

Dr. Khoddamzadeh has built a distinguished academic career at Florida International University, serving as Department Chair, Associate Professor, and previously Undergraduate Program Director. He has been recognized for his leadership as Co-Director of the Global Sustainable Tourism Program and through his innovative teaching and research. His professional journey includes sabbatical research with USDA-ARS, a Science Fellowship with the USDA in Washington D.C. and California, and earlier roles at Oklahoma State University and Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. He has also led biotechnology startups and collaborations with international research institutes, significantly contributing to the fields of conservation horticulture and precision agriculture.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Khoddamzadeh’s contributions have been recognized with numerous prestigious honors. He is a Senior Fellow of the Global Council for Science and the Environment and recipient of the USDA E. Kika De La Garza Science Fellowship. At Florida International University, he has earned Top Scholar Awards for research, engagement awards, and recognition for securing major grants. His early career achievements include the American Society for Horticultural Science Young Faculty Award. He has also been acknowledged by the Garden Club and Council for Student Organizations for his service and outreach. These accolades underscore his leadership in science, teaching, and community engagement.

Research Skills 

Dr. Khoddamzadeh’s research expertise spans horticultural biotechnology, plant conservation, and precision agriculture. He has advanced plant tissue culture, cryopreservation, and synthetic seed technology for conserving endangered species. His work also integrates mycorrhizal fungi research, urban horticulture, and gene banking approaches. A pioneer in applying optical sensor technologies, he develops data-driven methods for fertilizer and irrigation management, improving crop resilience to abiotic stressors such as salinity, drought, and heat. His multidisciplinary projects link laboratory innovation with real-world applications, benefiting botanic gardens, gene banks, and the nursery industry. His skills position him at the forefront of sustainable and adaptive plant science.

Publications

Vafaee, Y., Wallace, L., Khoddamzadeh, A., & Nalousi, A. M. (2025). Multiomics approaches for conservation of endangered orchids: Advances, applications, and future prospects.

Sandhu, D., Pudussery, E., Akel, T. H., Cendan, L. A., Khoddamzadeh, A. A., & Ferreira, J. F. S. (2025, August 8). Decoding the genetic basis of salinity tolerance in tomatoes through ion transport and stress regulation.

Ahmadzadeh, K., Mozafari, A. A., Vafaee, Y., Khorshidi, J., & Khoddamzadeh, A. A. (2025, April). Divergent in vitro responses to asymbiotic seed germination media in Ophrys reinholdii subsp. straussii and Comperia comperiana: The dual impact of species and media.

Fagundes, D. P., Costa, J. S., Dias, L. L. L., Araujo, C. P., Simoes, I. M., Cade, E. S., Zanardo, T. C., Peres, M. Z., de Mello, T., Schmildt, E. R., et al. (2025, February). Adult cell reprogramming in Euterpe edulis Martius: Breakthrough in cloning of an endangered species.

Costa, B. N. S., & Khoddamzadeh, A. A. (2025, February 6). Data-driven nitrogen application for satinleaf: Leveraging optical sensors in urban landscape management.

Costa, B. N. S., Munoz, S. M. N., Gil, K., & Khoddamzadeh, A. A. (2024). Effect of silicon amendment on growth and nitrogen status of common landscaping plants.

Conclusion 

Dr. Amir Ali Khoddamzadeh exemplifies the integration of innovative plant science with real-world solutions for global sustainability. Through his leadership at FIU’s Conservation and Sustainable Horticulture Lab, he has advanced strategies for conserving endangered species, improving crop resilience, and applying precision agriculture technologies. His international research collaborations, impactful publications, and recognized achievements demonstrate his dedication to addressing the challenges of climate change, urbanization, and biodiversity loss. By uniting biotechnology, conservation, and applied horticulture, he continues to shape the future of plant science education and research. His career reflects a commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable development.

Mounia ENNAMI | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Prof . Mounia ENNAMI | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

IAV Hassan II | Morocco

Author Profile

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Orcid ID

🌱 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

 

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