Paloma Moncalean | Plant Biotechnology | Excellence in Plant Research

Dr. Paloma Moncalean | Plant Biotechnology | Excellence in Plant Research

NEIKER | Spain

Dr. Paloma Moncaleán Guillén is a leading plant biotechnologist specializing in in vitro tissue culture, somatic embryogenesis, and forest biotechnology, with an extensive research career at NEIKER-BRTA, where she currently serves as Principal Investigator. She holds a PhD in Biological Sciences (Premio Extraordinario, 2000) from the University of Oviedo, where she also obtained her Licenciatura in Biological Sciences. Dr. Moncaleán pioneered the in vitro culture and plant physiology research line at NEIKER, developing advanced protocols for somatic embryogenesis and organogenesis in Pinus species, alongside molecular, physiological, and morphological marker applications in juvenile and mature tissues. Her current work focuses on epigenetic modulation under abiotic stress to enhance stress tolerance in somatic plants. She has accumulating an estimated h-index of 22, over 1421 citations, and more than 73 research documents. Dr. Moncaleán has led competitive national and international projects, contributed to major technology-transfer initiatives in Spain, Chile, and Argentina, and serves on editorial boards of top journals including Frontiers in Plant Science, PLANTS, FORESTS, and Plant Cell Tissue and Organ Culture. Recognized for her leadership, she coordinates the IUFRO Unit 2.09.02 and continues advancing forest biotechnology for sustainable and resilient forestry systems.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Hurtado, M., Suarez-Álvarez, S., Castander-Olarieta, A., Montalbán, I. A., Goicoechea, P. G., López de Heredia, U., Marino, D., & Moncaleán, P. (2025). Physiological and molecular response to drought in somatic plants from Pinus radiata embryonal masses induced at high temperatures. Plant Physiology and Biochemistry.

Ochatt, S. J., Akin, M., Chan, M. T., Dolgov, S. V., Eimert, K., Flachowsky, H., Guo, W. W., Jiménez, V. M., Lambardi, M., Moncaleán, P., et al. (2025). Research is rendering the recalcitrant woody plants amenable to biotechnological approaches. Plant Cell, Tissue and Organ Culture.

Montalbán, I. A., Castander-Olarieta, A., Marques do Nascimento, A. M., Suárez-Álvarez, S., Herrán, A., Polesi, L. G., Back, F., Steiner, N., Guerra, M. P., & Moncaleán, P. (2024). Genetic stability, amino acid, and polyamine profile analyses in radiata pine somatic embryos maturated at high temperatures. Plant Cell, Tissue and Organ Culture.

Montalbán, I. A., Castander-Olarieta, A., Marques do Nascimento, A. M., Suárez-Álvarez, S., Herrán, A., Polesi, L. G., Steiner, N., Guerra, M. P., & Moncaleán, P. (2023). Genetic stability, amino acid and polyamine profile analyses in radiata pine somatic embryos maturated at high temperatures.

Ayala, L. P. E., Luna, C. V., Brugnoli, E. A., Espasandin, F. D., Duarte, M. J., González, A. M., Gauchat, M. E., Moncaleán Guillén, P., & Sansberro, P. A. (2023). Cryopreservation of mature zygotic embryos, shoot bud regeneration, and field establishment of Pinus elliottii var. elliottii × Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis in vitro-derived plants. Trees.

Michael Neff | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Michael Neff | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Washington State University | United States

Author Profile

Scopus
Google Scholar

🧬 Summary

Dr. Michael Neff is a Professor of Crop Biotechnology in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences at Washington State University. With a Ph.D. in Botany (1995) from the University of Washington, Dr. Neff leads a research program centered on plant developmental biology, particularly light and hormone signaling pathways in Arabidopsis thaliana. His work integrates molecular biology, genetics, and biotechnology to understand how light and hormones regulate plant growth, with the ultimate goal of improving crop productivity.

🎓 Education

Dr. Neff earned his Ph.D. in Botany in 1995 from the University of Washington, where he developed a foundational understanding of plant molecular genetics. His academic training established a solid platform for his pioneering work in hormone signaling and photomorphogenesis in plants.

💼 Professional Experience

With extensive experience in plant biology, Dr. Neff has served as a faculty member at Washington State University, advancing from assistant professor to full professor. He leads a dynamic lab that explores gene regulation and hormonal pathways influencing plant architecture and development. His leadership spans over two decades in crop biotechnology research and graduate mentoring.

📚 Academic Citations

Dr. Neff’s research has been widely cited in high-impact journals such as PNAS, Plant Journal, Plant Physiology, and G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics. His key contributions include discoveries in brassinosteroid inactivation, light-mediated seedling growth, and cytokinin regulation, with over 30 peer-reviewed publications as senior or corresponding author.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Neff specializes in molecular cloning, gene expression analysis, mutant screening, transgenic technologies, and light/hormone assay systems in model plants. His lab utilizes CRISPR, real-time PCR, RNA-Seq, and microscopy-based phenotyping to dissect gene function in developmental processes.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As an educator, Dr. Neff teaches undergraduate and graduate-level courses in plant biology, crop biotechnology, and molecular genetics. He is known for integrating laboratory-based problem solving and classical experiments into his curriculum, nurturing critical thinking and experimental design skills in students.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Neff’s research focuses on:

  1. Brassinosteroid inactivation via cytochrome P450 enzymes (BAS1, SOB7).

  2. Role of Dof-class transcription factor SOB1 in plant morphology.

  3. Function of AT-hook proteins (SOB3, ESC) in light-regulated growth and senescence.

  4. Novel SOFL protein family involved in cytokinin biosynthesis and signaling.
    His lab explores cross-talk between hormone pathways and light perception to understand growth regulation in plants.

📖Publications

Registration of ‘Matchless’ Kentucky bluegras
  • Authors: Xin Xin, Jonathan J. Schnore, Charles T. Golob, Anna K. Hulbert, Michael M. Neff
The ability of Arabidopsis to recover from Basta and its application in isolating Cas9-free mutants
  • Authors: Shahbaz S. Ahmed, Anna K. Hulbert, Xin Xin, Michael M. Neff
Genetic Interactions Between BEN1- and Cytochrome P450-Mediated Brassinosteroid Inactivation
  • Authors: Reuben R. Tayengwa, Shelby R. Westenskow, Hao H. Peng, Anna K. Hulbert, Michael M. Neff
SUPPRESSOR OF PHYTOCHROME B-4 #3 reduces the expression of PIF-activated genes and increases expression of growth repressors to regulate hypocotyl elongation in short days
  • Authors: Caitlin N. Jacques, David S. Favero, Ayako Kawamura, Keiko Sugimoto, Michael M. Neff
    Journal: BMC Plant Biology
    Year: 2022
The NAC transcription factor ATAF2 promotes ethylene biosynthesis and response in Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings
  • Authors: Hao H. Peng, Jessica J. Phung, Evan C. Stowe, Amit Dhingra, Michael M. Neff
    Journal: FEBS Letters
    Year: 2022

Igor Araújo | Plant Physiology |Excellence in Plant Ecology

Prof. Dr.  Igor Araújo | Plant Physiology |Excellence in Plant Ecology

Prof. Dr. Igor Araújo,Universidade do Estado de Mato Grosso, Brazil

Dr. Igor Araújo de Souza is an accomplished ecologist and botanist specializing in plant physiology, particularly in the eco-physiology of vegetation in the Cerrado-Amazonia transition. He obtained his Ph.D. in Ecology and Conservation from Universidade do Estado de Mato Grosso (UNEMAT) in 2023, with a collaborative period at the University of Leeds. His work spans various research areas, including forest biodiversity, plant functional traits, and the effects of climate change on vegetation. Dr. Araújo has collaborated on numerous ecological projects and published extensively in renowned journals. He is currently a Postdoctoral researcher at UNEMAT. His research aims to enhance the understanding of plant responses to environmental pressures and contribute to conservation strategies in tropical ecosystems.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

 Suitable for Excellence in Plant Ecology awards

Igor Araújo de Souza is a highly deserving candidate for the Research for Excellence in Plant Ecology award. His broad research expertise, commitment to advancing ecological knowledge, and contributions to both scientific communities and public education align with the criteria of excellence in plant ecology. His work is pivotal in advancing our understanding of tropical ecosystems, plant responses to environmental stressors, and strategies for biodiversity conservation in the face of climate change.

 🎓Education

Dr. Igor Araújo de Souza completed his Ph.D. in Ecology and Conservation from Universidade do Estado de Mato Grosso (UNEMAT) in 2023, with a collaborative research period at the University of Leeds. His doctoral research, supervised by David Roberto Galbraith, focused on plant physiology in tropical forest ecosystems. In 2020, he earned his Master’s in Ecology and Conservation from UNEMAT, with research on plant functional traits under the guidance of Beatriz Schwantes Marimon. His academic foundation was established with a Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences from UNEMAT in 2018. Dr. Araújo’s education also includes various complementary courses in plant anatomy, bioinformatics, and environmental sustainability, which have expanded his expertise in plant biology and ecological research. He was awarded several grants during his studies, including from Brazil’s CAPES and CNPq, supporting his work on climate change and biodiversity in the Amazon and Cerrado regions.

  💼Professional Experience 

Dr. Igor Araújo de Souza has a diverse professional background in ecological research and teaching. He is currently a Postdoctoral researcher at Universidade do Estado de Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), where he contributes to projects in tropical ecology and conservation. His teaching experience includes roles as a professor at IF Goiano Campus Ceres, where he participates in various environmental education projects and research initiatives. Over the years, Dr. Araújo has been involved in numerous scientific and extension projects, such as those focused on ecological resilience, biodiversity conservation, and environmental sustainability. He has also contributed to projects like “For a Climate Resilient Amazon” and “A trait-based understanding of Latin American forest biodiversity.” His work frequently intersects with the study of plant functional traits, biodiversity conservation, and environmental education in Brazil. Dr. Araújo has also worked in various research projects at UNEMAT, further solidifying his expertise in plant ecology.

🏅Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Igor Araújo de Souza has received numerous accolades throughout his career for his contributions to ecology and conservation. In 2024, he was recognized for his work on the “Arara-Canindé,” symbolizing biodiversity in Brazilian biomes at the XXV Science and Technology Fair at IF Goiano Campus Ceres. He was also awarded for his research on the lessons from extinction and biodiversity in the Caatinga. In 2023, his student research was highlighted at the FLORA event. In 2021, he received an Honorable Mention for his work on forest gap formation and soil properties in southern Amazonia, and in the same year, he was again recognized for his student research at FLORA. His commitment to scientific and educational outreach has also earned him multiple awards, including first place in a photography contest for his work on the Cerrado biome. These recognitions reflect his dedication to advancing ecological research and public engagement in environmental issues.

  🌍 Research Skills On Plant Ecology

Dr. Igor Araújo de Souza possesses extensive research skills in plant physiology, ecology, and conservation. His expertise includes the study of plant functional traits, eco-physiology, and the impact of climate change on tropical ecosystems. He is adept in field research, using various methods to study plant communities, forest dynamics, and biodiversity. Dr. Araújo’s research involves the analysis of plant traits in relation to environmental variables, such as temperature and water availability, to understand their role in ecosystem functioning. He is skilled in using stable isotopes, dendrochronology, and leaf nutrient analysis to study forest health and resilience. Additionally, his interdisciplinary approach allows him to contribute to projects in environmental education, public outreach, and conservation management. Dr. Araújo’s proficiency in data analysis, scientific writing, and project management makes him a valuable asset to any research team focused on environmental sustainability and ecosystem services.

 📖 Publication Top Note’s

 “Taller trees exhibit greater hydraulic vulnerability in southern Amazonian forests”

  • Authors: Araújo, I., Marimon, B.S., Junior, B.H.M., Gloor, M.U., Galbraith, D.R.
    Journal: Environmental and Experimental Botany
    Year: 2024

“Intra-annual stable isotopes in the tree rings of Hymenaea courbaril as a proxy for hydroclimate variations in southern Amazonia”

  • Authors: Guimarães, K.S., Marimon, B.S., Locosselli, G.M., da Cruz, W.J.A., Phillips, O.L.
    Journal: Dendrochronologia
    Year: 2024

” Effects of microclimatic variation on plant leaf traits at the community level along a tropical forest gradient”

  • Authors: da Silva Oliveira, D., Simioni, P.F., Araújo, I., Amaral, G.F., Da Cunha, M.
    Journal: Trees – Structure and Function
    Year: 2023

” Morpho-anatomical traits and leaf nutrient concentrations vary between plant communities in the Cerrado–Amazonia transition”

  • Authors: Araújo, I., Scalon, M.C., Amorim, I., Simioni, P.F., Marimon, B.S.
    Journal: Flora: Morphology, Distribution, Functional Ecology of Plants
    Year: 2023

 “Climate defined but not soil-restricted: the distribution of a Neotropical tree through space and time”

  • Authors: Alvarez, F., Morandi, P.S., Marimon-Junior, B.H., Feldpausch, T.R., Marimon, B.S.
    Journal: Plant and Soil
    Year: 2022

“Leaf functional traits and monodominance in Southern Amazonia tropical forests”

  • Authors: Araújo, I., Morandi, P.S., Müller, A.O., Marimon Junior, B.H., Marimon, B.S.
    Journal: Plant Ecology
    Year: 2022

 “Intraspecific variation in leaf traits facilitates the occurrence of trees at the Amazonia–Cerrado transition”

  • Authors: Araújo, I., Marimon, B.S., Scalon, M.C., Galbraith, D.R., Gloor, M.U.
    Journal: Flora: Morphology, Distribution, Functional Ecology of Plants
    Year: 2021