Adane Fentaye Belay | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Adane Fentaye Belay | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

WOLKITE UNIBVERSITY, Ethiopia

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🌱 RENOWNED HORTICULTURE RESEARCHER & EDUCATOR

INTRODUCTION

A distinguished scholar and educator, Adane Fentaye Belay has made significant contributions to the field of horticulture and plant protection. With extensive experience in academia, research, and community engagement, Adane Fentaye Belay has played a vital role in advancing sustainable agricultural practices and plant health management. Through rigorous research and active teaching roles at various Ethiopian universities, [Name] has trained numerous students and contributed to groundbreaking studies in plant protection and horticulture.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

 Adane Fentaye Belay embarked on an academic journey that laid a strong foundation for expertise in horticulture and plant protection:

  • Bachelor of Science in Horticulture – Wolkite University, Ethiopia.
  • Master of Science in Plant Protection – Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia.

Through these academic achievements, Adane Fentaye Belay developed a keen interest in sustainable agriculture, pest management, and plant health.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

 Adane Fentaye Belay has held esteemed positions in academia, dedicating time to both teaching and research:

  • Chief “I” Technical Assistance Lecturer and Researcher – Wolkite University (22 October 2018 – 24 October 2019)
  • Senior Technical Assistance Lecturer and Researcher – Mettu University
  • Delivered courses to undergraduate horticulture students.
  • Conducted research focused on sustainable plant protection methods.
  • Engaged in community service activities, spreading awareness about modern agricultural techniques.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Plant Pathology

With a passion for agricultural research, Adane Fentaye Belay specializes in:

  • Pest Diagnosis & Management: Investigating effective methods to control pests and mitigate risks in agriculture.
  • Phytosanitary Treatments: Ensuring plant health and compliance with international trade regulations.
  • Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Promoting environmentally friendly approaches to farming and food security.
  • Data Science in Agriculture: Utilizing SAS and R software for statistical analysis and GIS applications in plant protection.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

 Adane Fentaye Belay has made a lasting impact in the field through:

  • Training the next generation of agricultural professionals.
  • Conducting research that directly benefits farmers and policymakers.
  • Engaging in international collaborations to advance plant health science.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

 Adane Fentaye Belay has contributed to academic literature with numerous peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations on plant protection, pest risk analysis, and sustainable agriculture.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • International Training Fellowship – National Institute of Plant Health Management, India (2024).
  • Certified Professional Teaching Educator – Wolkite University (2024-2025).
  • Pedagogical Education Excellence – Ministry of Education, Ethiopia (2018).
  • Entrepreneurship & Workplace Ethics Training Recognition – Wolkite University (2018).

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

 Adane Fentaye Belay aims to:

  • Expand collaborations with global agricultural institutions.
  • Develop innovative solutions for plant disease prevention.
  • Continue mentoring young researchers in the field.
  • Advocate for sustainable agricultural policies that benefit farmers and ecosystems alike.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

 Adane Fentaye Belay continues to make strides in research, education, and practical applications of horticulture. With a steadfast commitment to improving plant health and sustainable agriculture, [Name] is shaping the future of food security and environmental conservation.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Integrated management of stripe rust ( Puccinia striiformis f. sp . tritici ) and its impact on the growth and yield of bread wheat ( Triticum aestivum ) in Ethiopia

  • Authors: Adane Fentaye Belay, Abaynew Jemal Jenber
    Journal: Archives of Phytopathology and Plant Protection
    Year: 2024

 

Takwa Wannassi | Plant-Animal Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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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

 

Asim Abbasi | Entomology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Asim Abbasi | Entomology | Best Researcher Award

Department of Entomology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan

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🌟INTRODUCTION

Dr. Asim Abbasi, a distinguished entomologist, specializes in the intersection of agriculture and entomology. His extensive research, particularly in the management of insect pests and plant protection, has made significant contributions to sustainable agricultural practices. With a career spanning multiple prestigious institutions in both Pakistan and the USA, Dr. Abbasi’s work continues to impact the field of entomology and agricultural sciences.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Born on June 20, 1987, in Pakistan, Dr. Abbasi’s journey in entomology began at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Sciences (Entomology). His fascination with insects led him to pursue a Master’s and later a Ph.D. in Agriculture (Entomology) at the same institution. His doctoral dissertation, “Silicon-based induced resistance and its integration with new chemistry insecticides in cotton against Bemisia tabaci,” was supervised by leading experts in the field.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Abbasi has held various roles across prominent research and teaching institutions, contributing to both the academic and practical aspects of entomology. He served as a Research Assistant at the University of Arizona, Tucson, where he focused on the quantification of silicon in cotton plants and its effect on whitefly behavior. He also worked as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, guiding master’s students and aiding in manuscript writing and statistical data analysis.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Entomology

Dr. Abbasi’s research primarily revolves around pest management, sustainable agriculture, and the integration of biotechnological methods in crop protection. He has conducted groundbreaking work on the biocontrol potential of Beauveria bassiana and Bacillus thuringiensis against crop-damaging pests like Chilo partellus. Additionally, his investigations into the use of nanobiostimulants and CRISPR/Cas technologies are pushing the boundaries of genetic improvement in crops to withstand biotic stress.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Abbasi’s work has made an indelible mark on both agricultural practices and entomology. His publications and research contributions are utilized worldwide in pest management strategies, biofortification techniques, and climate-resilient farming systems. By bridging the gap between science and practical application, his influence extends beyond academia, impacting real-world agricultural solutions.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

With numerous publications in high-impact journals and book chapters, Dr. Abbasi has earned recognition for his expertise in sustainable pest control, climate resilience in crops, and insect biodiversity. His work continues to inform global agricultural strategies, as evidenced by his collaborations with scholars across the globe.

  • Abbasi, A., Hina, A., Zafar, S., Arshad, M.U., & Abdelsalam, N.R. (2024). “Nanobiostimulants for Enhancing Plant Stress Tolerance,” Springer.
  • Abbasi, A., Hina, A., Qayyum, M.A., & Wakil, W. (2023). “Entomopathogenic Fungi: Prospects and Challenges,” Springer.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Research Excellence Award, University of Agriculture Faisalabad
  • Award for Best PhD Dissertation, University of Agriculture Faisalabad
  • International Scholar Award, University of Arizona
  • Outstanding Researcher Award in Entomology

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking forward, Dr. Abbasi is committed to expanding his research into new frontiers of agricultural biotechnology and crop resilience. As a leader in his field, his legacy will be defined by his contributions to sustainable agricultural practices and his role in shaping the future of crop protection and entomology research.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Abbasi continues to lead innovative research in agricultural entomology, focusing on eco-friendly pest management and plant protection strategies. His efforts aim to contribute to the global fight against food insecurity and climate change through science-driven solutions in agriculture.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

Comparison of Pheromone Lures and Sticky Pad Color for Capturing Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
  • Authors: Sadique, M., Ishtiaq, M., Qayyum, M.A., Akram, M.I., Rebouh, N.Y.
  • Journal: Insects
  • Year: 2025
Assessment of Different Conventional and Biofortified Wheat Genotypes Based on Biology and Damage Pattern of Rhyzopertha dominica and Trogoderma granarium
  • Authors: Yousuf, H.M.B., Yasin, M., Khan, M.A., Rebouh, N.Y., Ali, H.M.
  • Journal: Insects
  • Year: 2025
Evaluating the Influence of Different Artificial Diets on Apis mellifera L. Using Health Biomarkers and Performance Metrics
  • Authors: Islam, S.U., Aqueel, M.A., Yousuf, M.U., Parvaiz, A., Rebouh, N.Y.
  • Journal: Insects
  • Year: 2024
Effect of Co-Diet Supplementation on Biodegradation of Polyethylene by Galleria mellonella L. (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
  • Authors: Mahfooz, A., Yasin, M., Qayyum, M.A., Aqueel, M.A., Subhan, M.
  • Journal: Insects
  • Year: 2024
Use of Periplaneta americana as a Soybean Meal Substitute: A Step towards Sustainable Transformative Poultry Feeds
  • Authors: Mustafa, F., Sajjad, A., Tahir, R., Avila-Quezada, G.D., Abd_Allah, E.F.
  • Journal: Insects
  • Year: 2024

 

AASHAQ HUSSAIN BHAT | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. AASHAQ HUSSAIN BHAT | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Chandigarh University | India

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DR. AASHIQ HUSSAIN BHAT: PIONEER IN EXPERIMENTAL BIOLOGY AND NEMATOLOGY

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Aashiq Hussain Bhat’s academic journey began in the verdant valleys of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He demonstrated early promise with outstanding academic achievements, securing 82.4% in High School (2003-2004) and 74% in Secondary School (2005-2006) at Government Higher Secondary School, Hardutoru. Pursuing his passion for biology, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kashmir in 2009, scoring an impressive 67.6%. His academic prowess continued with a Master’s degree (75.02%) and an M.Phil. in Zoology (73%) from Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut. In 2019, Dr. Bhat completed his Ph.D. in Zoology, focusing on the taxonomic diversity of entomopathogenic nematodes in the Meerut Division.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Bhat’s career reflects a commitment to education and research. His roles include:

  • Assistant Professor, Department of Biosciences, Chandigarh University, Punjab, India (2023-Present).
  • Adjunct Faculty, Department of Research Analytics, Saveetha University, Chennai, India (2023-Present).
  • Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Neuchâtel, Switzerland (2021-2022).
  • Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, Government Degree College, Billawar, University of Jammu (2020-2021).
  • Guest Lecturer, Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut (2017-2020).

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON PLANT PATHOLOGY

Dr. Bhat’s groundbreaking research spans experimental biology, entomopathogenic nematology, and biocontrol strategies. He has made significant strides in eco-friendly pest control methods, plant growth enhancement using nanoparticles, and sustainable agriculture. His notable contributions include:

  • Exploration of zinc oxide nanoparticles for nematode control.
  • Innovations in melatonin functionalized nanoparticles to combat heavy metal toxicity.
  • Molecular and ecological characterization of novel nematode species.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Bhat’s influence extends across academia and industry. He has mentored students, collaborated internationally, and contributed to sustainable agricultural practices. His work on bioluminescent bacteria’s role in multitrophic soil interactions has advanced our understanding of soil ecosystems.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

With over 14 publications in high-impact international journals, Dr. Bhat’s research has garnered significant academic attention. Key works include studies on:

  • Phytochemical applications in cancer therapy.
  • Biocontrol potential of Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus species.
  • Genome-wide analyses of Heterorhabditis nematodes.

His contributions have been cited extensively, reflecting his global research impact.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship (2021-2022).
  • DST Inspire Fellowship, awarded by India’s Department of Science and Technology (2014-2019).
  • Numerous awards for innovative research at international conferences.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Bhat’s legacy lies in his dedication to advancing biology through innovation and collaboration. As a mentor and researcher, he is poised to continue influencing the fields of nematology, sustainable agriculture, and experimental biology, paving the way for future breakthroughs.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Aashiq Hussain Bhat exemplifies the integration of academic rigor and practical application. His relentless pursuit of sustainable solutions for agriculture and pest management underscores his commitment to global food security.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Genome-wide analyses provide insights into genetic variation, phylo- and co-phylogenetic relationships, and biogeography of the entomopathogenic nematode genus Heterorhabditis
  • Authors: Machado, R.A.R., Muller, A., Hiltmann, A., Lalramnghaki, H.C., Baimey, H.
  • Journal: Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution
  • Year: 2025
Xenorhabdus bharatensis sp. nov., Xenorhabdus entomophaga sp. nov., Xenorhabdus siamensis sp. nov., and Xenorhabdus thailandensis sp. nov. Isolated from Steinernema Entomopathogenic Nematodes
  • Authors: Thanwisai, A., Machado, R.A.R., Bhat, A.H., Pansri, S., Vitta, A.
  • Journal: Current Microbiology
  • Year: 2025
Efficacy of Photorhabdus luminescens Supernatant in Controlling Meloidogyne incognita: A Potential Biocontrol Strategy for Root-Knot Nematodes
  • Authors: Arumugam, V., Bhat, A.H., Savarirayan, I., Ataya, F.S.
  • Journal: Biology Bulletin
  • Year: 2024
Photorhabdus viridis sp. nov. Isolated from Heterorhabditis zealandica Entomopathogenic Nematodes
  • Authors: Machado, R.A.R., Malan, A.P., Abolafia, J., Bhat, A.H., Stock, S.P.
  • Journal: Current Microbiology
  • Year: 2024
Root-knot nematode suppression through biogenic silver nanoparticles: A promising path for sustainable agriculture
  • Authors: Arumugam, V., Bhat, A.H., Savarirayan, I.K.S., Ataya, F.S., Fouad, D.
  • Journal: Journal of Nanoparticle Research
  • Year: 2024

 

AASHAQ HUSSAIN BHAT | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr . AASHAQ HUSSAIN BHAT | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Chandigarh University | India

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DR. AASHAQ HUSSAIN BHAT – PIONEER IN ENTOMOPATHOGENIC RESEARCH 🌿

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Aashaq Hussain Bhat’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in biology. After excelling in high school and secondary school in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, India, he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kashmir, achieving an impressive 67.6% score. His thirst for knowledge led him to Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut, where he earned a Master’s degree in Zoology (75.02%) and an M.Phil in Zoology (73%). He later completed his PhD in Zoology with a dissertation titled, “Taxonomic Diversity of Entomopathogenic Nematodes in Meerut Division,” supported by the prestigious DST Inspire Fellowship.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Bhat’s professional career has been both dynamic and impactful. He has held various teaching and research positions:

  • Assistant Professor (2023-Present): Department of Biosciences, University Centre for Research and Development, Chandigarh University, India.
  • Adjunct Faculty (2023-Present): Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha University, Chennai, India.
  • Postdoctoral Fellow (2021-2022): University of Neuchâtel, Switzerland, under the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship.
  • Previous roles include guest lecturer and assistant professor at multiple reputed institutions in India.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON PLANT PATHOLOGY

Dr. Bhat has contributed significantly to the field of entomopathogenic nematodes, environmental science, and sustainable agriculture. His research focuses on: Taxonomy and phylogenetics of nematodes. Nanotechnology applications in pest control and agriculture. Biocontrol strategies for plant-parasitic nematodes. His work has provided eco-friendly solutions to global agricultural challenges, making him a recognized authority in his field.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Bhat’s innovative research has not only advanced scientific understanding but also influenced agricultural practices worldwide. His findings on the use of nanoparticles and entomopathogenic nematodes have been instrumental in promoting sustainable and chemical-free agriculture.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Bhat has authored over 15 impactful publications in high-impact international journals such as Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution, Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology, and Scientia Horticulturae. Some of his notable works include:

  • Studies on zinc oxide nanoparticles for plant growth and nematode control.
  • Phylogenetic analyses of Heterorhabditis nematodes.
  • Biocontrol efficacy of Photorhabdus luminescens.

He is actively engaged in academic platforms, including Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Scopus, and Web of Science.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Listed Among Top 2% Scientists (2024-2025)
  • Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship (2021-2022)
  • DST Inspire Fellowship (2014-2019)

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

With an illustrious career and a passion for innovation, Dr. Bhat continues to inspire future generations of scientists. His commitment to addressing global agricultural challenges ensures his legacy as a pioneer in sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Aashaq Hussain Bhat’s unwavering dedication to research and education has cemented his position as a leader in the field of environmental science and nematology. His work has not only enriched scientific literature but has also provided practical solutions for sustainable agriculture.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Genome-wide analyses provide insights into genetic variation, phylo- and co-phylogenetic relationships, and biogeography of the entomopathogenic nematode genus Heterorhabditis
  • Authors: Machado, R.A.R., Muller, A., Hiltmann, A., Lalramnghaki, H.C., Baimey, H.
  • Journal: Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution
  • Year: 2025
Xenorhabdus bharatensis sp. nov., Xenorhabdus entomophaga sp. nov., Xenorhabdus siamensis sp. nov., and Xenorhabdus thailandensis sp. nov. Isolated from Steinernema Entomopathogenic Nematodes
  • Authors: Thanwisai, A., Machado, R.A.R., Bhat, A.H., Pansri, S., Vitta, A.
  • Journal: Current Microbiology
  • Year: 2025
Efficacy of Photorhabdus luminescens Supernatant in Controlling Meloidogyne incognita: A Potential Biocontrol Strategy for Root-Knot Nematodes
  • Authors: Arumugam, V., Bhat, A.H., Savarirayan, I., Ataya, F.S.
  • Journal: Biology Bulletin
  • Year: 2024
Photorhabdus viridis sp. nov. Isolated from Heterorhabditis zealandica Entomopathogenic Nematodes
  • Authors: Machado, R.A.R., Malan, A.P., Abolafia, J., Bhat, A.H., Stock, S.P.
  • Journal: Current Microbiology
  • Year: 2024
Root-knot nematode suppression through biogenic silver nanoparticles: a promising path for sustainable agriculture
  • Authors: Arumugam, V., Bhat, A.H., Savarirayan, I.K.S., Ataya, F.S., Fouad, D.
  • Journal: Journal of Nanoparticle Research
  • Year: 2024

 

Zezethu Mnqeta | Invasive Plant Species | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Zezethu Mnqeta | Invasive Plant Species | Young Scientist Award

University of Limpopo | South Africa

✨Suitable for  Young Scientist Award

Zezethu Mnqeta is a suitable candidate for the Young Scientist Award, especially if the award focuses on contributions to environmental sustainability, biological control, and early-career scientific impact. Highlighting her leadership in establishing collaborative research nodes and her teaching excellence would bolster her nomination.

Author Profile

✨ZEZETHU MNQETA: CHAMPION OF BIOLOGICAL CONTROL AND EDUCATION 

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Zezethu Mnqeta, born on 12 October 1989 in South Africa, began her academic journey with an innate passion for the natural world. Fluent in English, isiXhosa, and isiZulu, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Botany and Zoology at the University of Fort Hare in 2010. Her honors research focused on the ecological impact of invasive species, a theme that laid the foundation for her career. She later obtained her MSc and PhD in Entomology from Rhodes University, delving into biological control mechanisms to combat invasive cacti in South Africa.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Zezethu has held impactful roles in academia, including her current position as a Temporary Senior Lecturer in Plant Protection at the University of Limpopo. She has previously served as a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at Rhodes University’s Centre for Biological Control (CBC). Her teaching, research, and supervisory responsibilities reflect her dedication to shaping the next generation of scientists. Beyond academia, she has collaborated with stakeholders to address ecological challenges through biological control of invasive plants.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Invasive Plant Species

Zezethu’s work focuses on the environmental impacts and management of invasive alien plants through biological control methods. Her groundbreaking research includes:

  • Studying the interactions between biological control agents.
  • Assessing the impact and safety of biocontrol agents on invasive alien cacti.
  • Collaborating on the establishment of a cactus biological control node in Limpopo Province.

Her commitment to community engagement and environmental education demonstrates her dedication to translating research into action.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Zezethu has influenced the field of plant entomology and biological control through her publications, symposia presentations, and collaborative projects. She actively mentors students at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, fostering a new generation of scientists. Her work has been showcased at international forums, highlighting South Africa’s efforts in combating invasive species.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Zezethu has published several papers in prestigious academic journals, focusing on entomology, pest management, and the impact of biological control agents. She has also presented her research at national and international conferences, showcasing her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

Zezethu has been recognized for her contributions with various certifications and accolades, including:

  • DST-NRF Internship Programme Certificate of Completion
  • Responsible Use of Pesticides Certificate
  • Biological Control Short Course Certificate
  • International Training Programme on Pesticide Management

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Zezethu Mnqeta continues to pave the way for sustainable solutions in pest management. Her vision includes establishing a cactus biological control node in Limpopo Province, furthering collaboration with research institutions, and mentoring future scientists in her field.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Zezethu Mnqeta exemplifies dedication to environmental sustainability, academic excellence, and impactful education. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in making meaningful contributions to science and society.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

  • “Biological control against Opuntia aurantiaca Lindley (Cactaceae) and the perceptions of land-users in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa”
    Authors: Mnqeta, Z., Paterson, I.D.
    Journal: Biocontrol Science and Technology
    Year: 2024
  • “Could alien invasive species be a solution to postharvest losses of fresh produce?”
    Authors: Mditshwa, A., Mnqeta, Z., Mahlambi, P.N., Khaliq, G.
    Journal: Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems
    Year: 2023
  • “Biological Control of Invasive Climbing Plants in South Africa”
    Authors: King, A.M., Paterson, I.D., Simelane, D.O., Mawela, K.V., Mnqeta, Z.
    Journal: African Entomology
    Year: 2021
  • “Biological Control of Cactaceae in South Africa”
    Authors: Paterson, I.D., Klein, H., Muskett, P.C., Mnqeta, Z., Venter, N.
    Journal: African Entomology
    Year: 2021
  • “Interactions between two biological control agents and their target weed: a beetle, a bug and a cactus weed”
    Authors: Mnqeta, Z., Paterson, I.D.
    Journal: Biocontrol Science and Technology
    Year: 2019