Idrissou Ahoudou | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Idrissou Ahoudou | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Genetics, Biotechnology, and Seed Sciences Unit, University of Abomey-Calavi | Benin

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🌟 IDRISSOU AHOUDOU: A LEADING RESEARCHER IN GENETICS AND PLANT BREEDING

INTRODUCTION

Dr. Idrissou Ahoudou is a distinguished researcher in Genetics and Plant Breeding, with a strong academic background and extensive experience in plant genetics, biotechnology, and crop improvement. His research contributions have significantly advanced the understanding of genetic diversity and crop resilience, particularly in Africa.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Ahoudou’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Crop Production from the National School of Agricultural Sciences and Techniques of Djougou, University of Parakou, Benin, in 2014. He later pursued a Master of Science in Biotechnology and Plant Breeding at the Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin, completing his studies in 2018. Currently, he is set to defend his PhD at the University of Abomey-Calavi on March 19, 2025.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Ahoudou has served in multiple research capacities, notably as a Research Assistant from 2019 to 2022 in the “Improved Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato Value Chains for Food and Nutrition Security in Benin, Niger, and Nigeria” project. His responsibilities included:

  • Study Design and Implementation – Conceptualizing and executing baseline studies.
  • Germplasm Conservation – Preserving sweet potato genetic diversity.
  • Cultivar Evaluation – Identifying high-yield sweet potato cultivars.
  • Capacity Building – Training farmers in sustainable agricultural practices.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Plant Genetics

Dr. Ahoudou specializes in plant genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, and crop breeding. His research encompasses:

  • Participatory Breeding Approaches – Engaging farmers in cultivar evaluation.
  • Genetic Improvement of Crops – Enhancing yield and stress resistance.
  • Bioinformatics Applications – Utilizing computational tools for genetic analysis.
  • Climate Change Adaptation – Developing resilient crop varieties.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Ahoudou’s work has had a profound impact on food security and sustainable agriculture in West Africa. His research in genetic improvement of sweet potatoes and tomatoes has contributed to better yield stability and nutritional value, benefiting local farmers and agricultural stakeholders.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Ahoudou has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, including:

  1. Ahoudou, I., et al. (2023). Farmers’ selection criteria for sweet potato varieties in Benin: An application of Best-Worst Scaling, Experimental Agriculture, 59, p. e25. [DOI: 10.1017/S0014479723000224]
  2. Ahoudou, I., et al. (2025). Multi-environmental traits selection and farmer’s participatory assessment of mean performance and stability of orange-fleshed sweet potato genotypes in Benin, Heliyon, 11(2), p. e41685. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e41685]

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • 2018 – Letter of Congratulations from the Director of the Genetics, Horticulture, and Seed Science Laboratory for securing an African Union Research Grant.
  • 2011 – Benin Government Scholarship for Bachelor studies.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

With his dedication to plant genetics and breeding, Dr. Ahoudou aims to:

  • Develop new resilient crop varieties.
  • Enhance bioinformatics integration in genetic studies.
  • Strengthen collaborations between research institutions and farmers.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Ahoudou continues to be a trailblazer in genetics and plant breeding, focusing on improving food security and sustainable agricultural practices. His research and fieldwork have positioned him as an influential figure in crop genetics and biotechnology.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Multi-environmental traits selection and farmer’s participatory assessment of mean performance and stability of orange-fleshed sweet potato genotypes in Benin

  • Authors: I. Ahoudou, V.N. Fassinou Hotegni, D.E.O. Sogbohossou, I. Moumouni-Moussa, E.G. Achigan-Dako

  • Journal: Heliyon

  • Year: 2025

 

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

 

Khalid Masoodi | Molecular biology | Best Researcher Award

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 Prof. Dr. Khalid Masoodi | Molecular biology | Best Researcher Award

Skuast-Kashmir | India

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INTRODUCTION

Khalid Zaffar Masoodi, PhD, is an acclaimed scientist and educator specializing in biotechnology. With an academic foundation built at prominent institutions, Dr. Masoodi has made significant contributions to plant biotechnology, entrepreneurship, and scientific research. He holds a prestigious position as an Associate Professor and Senior Scientist at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-Kashmir), contributing to both academia and the broader scientific community.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Masoodi’s academic journey began with a BSc. Honors in Botany from Aligarh Muslim University, followed by an MSc. in Biotechnology from the University of Jammu. His passion for biotechnology deepened during his Ph.D. at the University of Jammu, under the mentorship of Prof. Manoj Kumar, focusing on cutting-edge research in biotechnology. His dedication to scientific exploration continued with a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh, USA, where he worked under the guidance of Prof. Zhou Wang, further honing his expertise in biotechnology.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Masoodi’s professional career has been marked by a series of impactful academic and research positions. Since 2014, he has served at SKUAST-Kashmir, progressing from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor/Senior Scientist. His leadership extends beyond the classroom, where he contributes significantly to the institution’s research initiatives, including his involvement in innovative startups and biotechnology-related projects. Dr. Masoodi’s early career also included postdoctoral research at the University of Pittsburgh and a senior residency at the Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Molecular biology

Dr. Masoodi’s research is at the intersection of plant biotechnology, agricultural innovation, and health sciences. He has contributed to groundbreaking work on plant genomics, biotechnology applications, and novel therapeutic approaches for diseases like prostate cancer. His work on designing anticancer “Magic Food” has garnered attention for its potential to revolutionize cancer treatment. He has also developed several technologies that bridge the gap between agriculture, health, and technology.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Masoodi’s work has had a lasting impact on agricultural science, biotechnology, and medical research. His involvement in developing high-impact publications and his patents has solidified his position as a thought leader in the field. Furthermore, he has played a crucial role in establishing the first faculty startup at SKUAST-Kashmir, contributing to the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region. His influence extends to the global scientific community, where he is an active member of prestigious organizations such as the Society for Basic Urologic Research (SBUR), USA.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Masoodi’s research is widely recognized, with numerous citations and publications in reputable journals. His contributions to biotechnology, cancer research, and agricultural innovation have been published in international journals, contributing significantly to the scientific community’s understanding of these fields. His work is also frequently cited, indicating the broad impact of his research.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

Dr. Masoodi’s career is decorated with numerous accolades, including national and international honors. Notable international awards include the Certificate of Appreciation for his work at the International Conference on Coronavirus and the Journal Award from the Society of Endocrinology, Glasgow. Nationally, Dr. Masoodi has been recognized for his innovative contributions, including the “Achiever of the Year” award in 2024 for his high-impact publications and patented technologies. His awards, spanning across scientific, entrepreneurial, and educational domains, highlight his exceptional career trajectory.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As an academic and researcher, Dr. Masoodi’s legacy is defined by his impact on biotechnology, cancer treatment, and agricultural innovations. With his continued focus on research, technological advancements, and mentorship, he is poised to make significant contributions to the scientific community and beyond. His work, particularly in the realm of biotechnology startups, is expected to influence future developments in healthcare and agriculture.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Khalid Zaffar Masoodi, PhD, continues to inspire the scientific community with his groundbreaking research and commitment to innovation. His multidisciplinary approach to biotechnology, combined with his entrepreneurial spirit, sets him apart as a leading figure in the fields of plant biotechnology and agricultural science. Dr. Masoodi’s contributions extend beyond academia, as he shapes the future of biotechnology and health sciences through his work.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Achyranthes aspera-derived compounds mitigate the pathogenesis of Meloidogyne incognita and in silico approach to determine interaction with nematode protein
  • Authors: A. Khan, Amir; M. Amir, Mohd; M. Jameel, Mohammed; S. Shahini, Shpend; F. Ahmad, Faheem
  • Journal: Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology,
  • 2025
Investigating the antioxidant and anticancer potential of Daucus spp. extracts against human prostate cancer cell line C4-2, and lung cancer cell line A549
  • Authors: S.M. Lone, Sameena Maqbool; S. Narayan, Sumati; K. Hussain, Khursheed; A.A. Ahmad, Ajaz A.; K.Z. Masoodi, Khalid Z.
  • Journal: Journal of Ethnopharmacology,
  • 2025
Mapping phenotypic performance and novel SNPs for cold tolerance in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) genotypes through GWAS and population genetics
  • Authors: L.R. Shah, Labiba Riyaz; N. Ahmed, Nazeer; K. Hussain, Khursheed; B.A. Bhat, Basharat A.; K.Z. Masoodi, Khalid Z.
  • Journal: BMC Genomic Data,
  • 2024
Benzothiazole-Piperazine Hybrids Effectively Target C4-2 Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer Cells in vitro Implicated through Computational Studies
  • Authors: A. Amin, Andleeb; B.A. Bhat, Basharat A.; Z. Ul-Khazir, Zubaid; P.K. Sharma, Praveen Kumar; K.Z. Masoodi, Khalid Z.
  • Journal: ChemistrySelect,
  • 2024
Phenotypic, biochemical and genetic diversity of pepper (Capsicum spp.) germplasm reflects selection for cultivar types and spatial distribution
  • Authors: S.A. Indrabi, Sayed Azrah; A.A. Malik, Ajaz Ahmed; G. Malik, Geetika; S. Mansoor, Sheikh; K.Z. Masoodi, Khalid Z.
  • Journal: Plant Biotechnology Reports,
  • 2024

 

Dun Li | Cybersecurity | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Dun Li | Cybersecurity | Best Researcher Award

Tsinghua University | China

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🌐DUN LI: A PROFILE OF A DISTINGUISHED RESEARCHER IN BLOCKCHAIN

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dun Li began his academic journey at Huaqiao University (2009–2013), where he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Management. His early academic interests were geared toward understanding the intersections of technology and management. He then pursued a Master’s degree in Finance at Macau University of Science and Technology (2013–2015), further expanding his academic foundation in financial technologies.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dun Li’s professional academic career truly took shape during his PhD studies in Information Engineering at Shanghai Maritime University (2019–2023). His continued dedication to the field of Computer Science & Technology led him to pursue advanced research at Institut Polytechnique de Paris (2020–2024). Currently, he serves as a Post-Doctoral Researcher in Industrial Engineering at Tsinghua University (2023–present), one of the top-ranked universities in the world.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON CYBERSECURITY

Dun Li‘s research spans several cutting-edge domains, including Blockchain, Smart Contracts, IoT, AI, and Federated Learning. His groundbreaking work on integrating blockchain technology with federated learning has gained significant attention. Key contributions include the development of blockchain-based systems for secure distributed machine learning, supply chain finance, and medical information storage. He has authored numerous SCI journal papers that have been well-cited in the research community, focusing on the intersection of blockchain and AI.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dun Li‘s work has had a transformative impact on distributed systems, with particular emphasis on security and data integrity in smart contract applications. His research has influenced the development of more robust, secure IoT networks and healthcare data management systems, where his blockchain-based solutions are now applied in practical settings. His collaboration with leading academic institutions has elevated his standing in the global research community.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dun Li’s academic output includes over 20 SCI journal papers and numerous conference proceedings. Some of his most notable publications include:

  • Blockchain for federated learning toward secure distributed machine learning systems (Soft Computing, 2022)
  • MOOCsChain: A blockchain-based secure storage and sharing scheme for MOOCs learning (Computer Standards & Interfaces, 2022)
  • On Stablecoin: Ecosystem, architecture, mechanism, and applicability as a payment method (Computer Standards & Interfaces, 2024)

His work has earned ESI Highly Cited Paper status, further solidifying his influence in the field of blockchain and AI.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Gold Medal at the 28th National Invention Exhibition (2024)
  • Third Prize in the China Association for Invention and Entrepreneurship Award (2024)
  • Exhibitor at the Prototypes for Humanity, Dubai (2024)
  • GOLD MEDAL at the Salon International Des Inventions Genève (2024)
  • 2nd Place in the First China Intelligent Transportation Innovation Challenge (2023)

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dun Li’s legacy will likely be defined by his contributions to distributed machine learning and blockchain integration, which have the potential to revolutionize industries ranging from finance to healthcare. His continued research will further solidify his role as a leader in AI and blockchain technologies. Dun Li’s work ensures that the future of smart contracts, secure IoT networks, and federated learning will be more robust, scalable, and secure.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dun Li’s academic career reflects a blend of cutting-edge research and practical, real-world applications of emerging technologies. His work in blockchain, AI, and IoT continues to pave the way for more secure and efficient systems in numerous industries. As he moves forward in his post-doctoral career at Tsinghua University, his research promises to yield even more impactful advancements in these fields.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

A smart contract-driven access control scheme with integrity checking for electronic health records
  • Authors: Li, H., Li, D., Liang, W.
  • Journal: Cluster Computing
  • Year: 2024
Medical Record Information Storage Scheme based on Blockchain and Attribute Role-Based Access Control
  • Authors: Bian, A., Han, D., Cui, M., Li, D.
  • Journal: Computer Science and Information Systems
  • Year: 2024
Does Short-and-Distort Scheme Really Exist? A Bitcoin Futures Audit Scheme through BIRCH & BPNN Approach
  • Authors: Li, D., Han, D., Zheng, Z., Li, M., Cai, S.
  • Journal: Computational Economics
  • Year: 2024
A Hybrid Approach to Real-Time Robotic Visual Navigation: Integrating Detection and Scene Segmentation
  • Authors: Hu, L., Zhu, X., Li, D., Zhang, F., Zhang, C.
  • Conference: Proceeding of the WRC Symposium on Advanced Robotics and Automation, WRC SARA
  • Year: 2024
Optimized YOLO-Based Model for Real-Time Hand Keypoint Detection in Robotics
  • Authors: Hu, L., Zhu, X., Li, D., Zhang, F., Zhang, C.
  • Conference: Proceeding of the WRC Symposium on Advanced Robotics and Automation, WRC SARA
  • Year: 2024
Blockchain and OR Based Data Sharing Solution for Internet of Things
  • Authors: Li, J., Han, D., Li, D., Li, H.
  • Conference: Communications in Computer and Information Science
  • Year: 2024