Sanjay Kumar Katiyar | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Sanjay Kumar Katiyar | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

CGIAR- AfricaRice | Côte d’Ivoire

Dr. Sanjay Kumar Katiyar is an accomplished geneticist and global agricultural research leader with over three decades of expertise in crop breeding, genetics, and agricultural innovation. He earned his Ph.D. in Genetics from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) and completed postdoctoral research at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). Currently serving as Program Leader for Genetic Diversity & Improvement at CGIAR-AfricaRice, Director of the CGIAR Global Rice Breeding Platform (AfricaRice, IRRI, and CIAT), and Co-Lead of CGIAR’s Breeding for Tomorrow—Accelerated Breeding, he provides strategic and scientific leadership across global breeding initiatives. Dr. Katiyar’s career spans leading roles in CGIAR centers (IRRI, CIMMYT, AfricaRice), multinational seed industries (ADVANTA, BIOSEEDS), and public research institutions (IGKV). His research focuses on accelerated and predictive breeding, genomic selection, gene editing, and data-driven crop improvement for sustainable agriculture and climate resilience. He has secured over $50 million in competitive research grants. Recognized for his leadership and capacity building, Dr. Katiyar has trained over 1,000 scientists and supervised 80 postgraduate researchers, contributing significantly to global food security and the modernization of plant breeding programs across Asia and Africa.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Juma, R. U., Bartholomé, J., Thathapalli Prakash, P., Hussain, W., Platten, J. D., Katiyar, S. K., … (2021). Identification of an elite core panel as a key breeding resource to accelerate the rate of genetic improvement for irrigated rice. Rice.

Nguyen, V. H., Morantte, R. I. Z., Lopena, V., Verdeprado, H., Murori, R., Katiyar, S. K., … (2023). Multi-environment genomic selection in rice elite breeding lines. Rice.

Subbaiyan, G. K., Waters, D. L. E., Katiyar, S. K., Sadananda, A. R., Vaddadi, S., … (2012). Genome‐wide DNA polymorphisms in elite indica rice inbreds discovered by whole‐genome sequencing. Plant Biotechnology Journa.

Katiyar, S. K., Tan, Y., Huang, B., Chandel, G., Xu, Y., Zhang, Y., Xie, Z., & Bennett, J. (2001). Molecular mapping of gene Gm-6 (t) which confers resistance against four biotypes of Asian rice gall midge in China. Theoretical and Applied Genetics.

Kottapalli, P., Gaur, P. M., Katiyar, S. K., Crouch, J. H., Buhariwalla, H. K., Pande, S., … (2009). Mapping and validation of QTLs for resistance to an Indian isolate of Ascochyta blight pathogen in chickpea. Euphytica,

Leila Ma’mani | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Leila Ma’mani | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

ABRII | Iran

Dr. Leila Ma’mani is a distinguished Assistant Professor at the Department of Nanotechnology, Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute of Iran (ABRII). She obtained her B.Sc. from Bu-Ali Sina University, M.Sc. from the Institute for Advanced Studies in Basic Sciences (IASBS), and Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Tarbiat Modares University. She completed postdoctoral research in nanomaterials and nano-drug delivery at the Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences. At ABRII, she has served as Head of the Department of Nanotechnology and Secretary of the Nanotechnology Committee of Iran’s Ministry of Agriculture. Dr. Ma’mani has supervised numerous Ph.D. and M.Sc. students and continues to guide emerging researchers in the field. Her research focuses on the design and synthesis of nanoporous and organic–inorganic hybrid nanocomposite delivery systems, targeted and slow release of bioactive compounds, nano-pesticides, nutrient nanocarriers, enzyme and RNA stabilization, and magnetic nanomaterials. She has authored many high-impact publications, book chapters, and patents, with an h-index of 28 and 2272 citations and 76 Documentation. Her innovative contributions to agricultural nanotechnology have advanced sustainable, biocompatible solutions for controlled-release systems and green agricultural technologies.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | Orcid

Featured Publications

Eigharlou, M., Javidpoor, S., Mohammadi, A., Khelghatibana, F., Nami, Y., Ma’mani, L., & Sadeghi, A. (2024). Evaluation of herbicidal potential of siderophores produced by Amycolatopsis lurida strain 407. Scientific Reports.

Parnian, J., Ma’mani, L., Bakhtiari, M. R., & Safavi, M. (2024). Inhibition of EGFR1 in triple negative breast cancer cells using siRNA loaded with Fe₃O₄ magnetic nanoparticles. BioNanoScience.

Najafzadeh Nansa, M., Jokarshoorijeh, F., Tavakoli Hasanaklou, N., Ghorbanloo, M., Hosseni, R., & Ma’mani, L. (2024). Nanoformulation: An efficient approach to natural insect repellent formulations. Journal of Water and Environmental Nanotechnology.

Ardali, T. R., Soleimanpour, L., Ma’mani, L., & Chorom, M. (2024). Opportunities and future perspective of nanofertilizers and controlled release nanofertilizers in agriculture. Journal of Water and Environmental Nanotechnology.

Shemshaki, N. S., Sharifi, K., Khodaparast, S. A., Mamani, L., & Mousanejad, S. (2024). The efficiency of mineral compounds for the control of strawberry blossom blight caused by Botrytis cinerea. European Journal of Plant Pathology.

Kristen McNamara | Plant Stress Physiology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Kristen McNamara | Plant Stress Physiology | Best Researcher Award

Southern Rural Water | Australia

Kristen McNamara is an environmental scientist and climate change professional with extensive experience in natural resource management, conservation, and policy implementation. She holds a Master of Environment from The University of Melbourne, where she focused on climate adaptation, mitigation, ecosystem restoration, and circular economy principles, and a Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science) with Honors from The University of Queensland. Currently serving as Climate Change & Environment Lead at Southern Rural Water, Kristen has led initiatives to achieve net-zero emissions, developed the company’s Climate Adaptation Plan under the Climate Change Act (2017), and facilitated multi-unit committees to drive climate action. Her international experience includes serving as a youth delegate at UNFCCC COP25, coordinating coral reef and turtle conservation projects in Malaysia, and engaging in community-led environmental programs across Australia. Kristen’s research interests span climate policy, water resource management, blue carbon ecosystems, and sustainable agricultural practices. She has published multiple papers in environmental science and conservation. Recognized for leadership and innovation, she has received awards including the Dean of Science Leadership Award, the Our Catchments, Our Communities Women in Leadership Grant, and various marine conservation prizes. Kristen continues to advance sustainable environmental solutions while mentoring future leaders in climate action.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publication

McNamara, K., Greet, J., Mole, B., & Jones, C. S. (2025). Livestock grazing and dense willow shading negatively impact instream plant growth. River Research and Applications.

Shabeer Ahmad Dar | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Shabeer Ahmad Dar | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

CSIR-IIIM | India

Dr. Shabeer Ahmad Dar is an accomplished plant biotechnologist with a Ph.D. in Plant Tissue Culture and Mutagenesis from the University of Kashmir, India, and currently serves as a Research Associate focusing on tissue culture, mutagenesis, and genetic transformation for improving medicinal and ornamental plants. With experience as a contractual lecturer and assistant professor, he has led and contributed to multiple projects in micropropagation, in vitro mutagenesis, secondary metabolite production, and plant conservation biology. His work has resulted in several high-impact journal publications, including studies on Atropa acuminata (In Vitro Cellular & Developmental Biology – Plant), callus induction, antioxidant profiling, and ethnomedicinal surveys. He has accumulated about 58 citations and holds an h-index of 3. He earned a Young Scientist Award in Plant Sciences in 2022. His research interests lie at the interface of plant biotechnology, synthetic biology, stress physiology, mutagenesis, and conservation of endangered medicinal germplasm. He also mentors junior researchers and promotes collaborative, interdisciplinary research. In future, he aims to expand transgenic approaches, metabolic engineering, and sustainable production of bioactive compounds while continuing efforts in plant conservation and capacity building in biotechnology.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Dar, S. A., Nawchoo, I. A., Tyub, S., & Kamili, A. N. (2022). In vitro culture and biochemical and antioxidant potential of the critically endangered medicinal plant Atropa acuminata Royle ex Lindl of Kashmir Himalaya. In Vitro Cellular & Developmental Biology – Plant.

Dar, S. A., Nawchoo, I. A., Tyub, S., & Kamili, A. N. (2021). Effect of plant growth regulators on in vitro induction and maintenance of callus from leaf and root explants of Atropa acuminata Royle ex Lindl. Biotechnology Reports, 31, e00688.

Dar, S. A., Gulzar, N., Lone, I. M., & Mohammad, H. B. (2020). Ethnomedicinal plants used by tribal community of district Pulwama with special reference to Tehsil Tral, Jammu and Kashmir–India. International Research Journal of Plant Sciences, 11(1), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.14303/irjps.2020.005

Dar, S. A., Nawchoo, I. A., Tyub, S., & Kamili, A. N. (2021). An updated overview of Atropa acuminata Royle ex Lindl: A critically endangered medicinal plant of Kashmir Himalaya. Research and Reviews: Journal of Botanical Sciences.

Dar, S. A., Nawchoo, I. A., Tyub, S., & Kamili, A. N. (2020). Plant cell cultures: Important methods for production of secondary metabolites. Journal of Research and Development.

Valeisha Ellis | Stem Education | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Valeisha Ellis | Stem Education | Best Researcher Award

Spelman College | United States

Author Profile

Scopus
Orcid ID

🌟  Suitable for this Best Researcher Award

Dr. Valeisha Ellis, an esteemed educator and researcher, is nominated for the Best Researcher Award in recognition of her groundbreaking contributions to urban agriculture education and STEM integration. Her work bridges the gap between academic research and community impact, making her a leading figure in educational innovation.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Valeisha Ellis, holds a Ph.D. in Elementary Education from Florida State University, where her dissertation explored the impact of reform-based science instruction on second graders’ academic achievement. She earned her Master’s in Special Education, focusing on Reading and Learning Disabilities, and a Bachelor’s in Special Education, both from Florida State University. Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding and enhancing educational practices, particularly for diverse and marginalized student populations. Dr. Ellis’s comprehensive educational background has equipped her with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to drive innovation in education, making her a pivotal figure in the integration of STEM and urban agriculture into curricula.

 💼  Professional Experience

With over two decades in education, Dr. Valeisha Ellis, has held pivotal roles across various institutions. At Spelman College, she serves as an Assistant Professor and EdTPA Coordinator, leading initiatives in teacher preparation and assessment. Her tenure at Touro University as Senior Liaison for Assessment & Accreditation involved overseeing program evaluations and ensuring academic excellence. At Albany State University, she coordinated Special Education programs, emphasizing inclusive teaching strategies. Dr. Ellis’s experience extends to roles such as President/Director at Above and Beyond Habilitation Services, where she championed services for individuals with disabilities. Her diverse roles reflect a career dedicated to enhancing educational outcomes through leadership, research, and community engagement.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Valeisha Ellis, exemplary work has garnered numerous accolades. She secured the Fidelity Charitable/Google Grant for the Atlanta University Center K-12 Computer Science Ecosystem Phase II, emphasizing her commitment to integrating technology in education. As Co-PI, she contributed to a $10 million proposal aimed at advancing generative AI in classrooms. Her involvement in the U.S. Department of Education’s Pathway Project underscores her dedication to supporting young children with disabilities. Additional recognitions include grants from the Washington State Professional Standards Board and the Center of Excellence for Minority Women in STEM. These honors reflect her relentless pursuit of educational equity and innovation.

🌍Research skills On Stem Education 

Dr. Valeisha Ellis, research is characterized by its interdisciplinary nature and focus on equity. Her interests encompass Artificial Intelligence in K-12 education, STEM methods, and the integration of science and reading instruction. She emphasizes effective models for establishing and maintaining P-12 school and community partnerships, ensuring that research translates into tangible community benefits. Her work in social and emotional learning and mindfulness pedagogy showcases her holistic approach to education. Dr. Ellis’s ability to intertwine research with practical application positions her as a leader in educational innovation, particularly in urban agriculture and STEM integration.

📖Publications

“An Exploration of the Impact of Reform-Based Science Instruction on Second Graders’ Academic Achievement”
“Integrating Science and Reading Instruction: A Pathway to Enhanced Learning”
“Artificial Intelligence in K-12 Education: Opportunities and Challenges”
“Effective STEM Education Methods for Diverse Learners”
“Mindfulness Pedagogy in Elementary Education: A Holistic Approach”

Kakhuangailiu Gangmei | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Kakhuangailiu Gangmei | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre, India

Author Profile

Scopus
Google Scholar

🌟  Suitable for this Best Researcher Award

​Dr. Kakhuangailiu Gangmei is a distinguished researcher in microbiology, specializing in soil bacteria, vector biology, and biological control of vectors. Her groundbreaking work has significantly advanced the understanding of bacterial strains for vector control and industrial applications. Dr. Gangmei’s innovative research and dedication make her an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award.​

🎓 Education 

Dr. Gangmei earned her Ph.D. in Zoology in September 2024. Her doctoral research focused on microbiology, particularly bacterial isolation, identification, and characterization. She has developed expertise in genomic DNA extraction, microbiological techniques, and next-generation sequencing. Dr. Gangmei is proficient in bioinformatics tools such as BV-BRC, MEGA-X, Proksee-Genome analysis, MEROPS, BioEdit, and Mob-recon for genomic analysis. Her academic journey reflects a strong commitment to advancing knowledge in soil science and related fields.​

 💼  Professional Experience

Dr. Gangmei is currently associated with the ICMR-Vector Control Research Centre. She has published 16 articles in esteemed journals, with four as the first author. Her recent publication on the Whole Genome Sequence of Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis VCRC-B650 in Springer Nature highlights her significant contributions to microbiology. Additionally, Dr. Gangmei has reviewed articles for Springer Nature Journals, demonstrating her active engagement in the scientific community. She is a member of the Society of Vector Ecology and the Indian Science Congress.​

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

In 2022, Dr. Gangmei received the “Award for Excellence in Research” from EET CRS, recognizing her outstanding contributions to microbiology and soil science. Her work has garnered 24 citations, reflecting the impact of her research in the scientific community. With an h-index of 3, Dr. Gangmei’s publications demonstrate both quality and influence. Her dedication and innovative research have established her as a leading figure in her field.​

🌍Research skills On Soil Science

Dr. Gangmei’s research skills encompass bacterial isolation, identification, and characterization, with a focus on soil bacteria and vector biology. She is adept at genomic DNA extraction, microbiological techniques, and next-generation sequencing. Her proficiency in bioinformatics tools such as BV-BRC, MEGA-X, Proksee-Genome analysis, MEROPS, BioEdit, and Mob-recon enables her to conduct comprehensive genomic analyses. Dr. Gangmei’s expertise contributes significantly to advancements in biological control of vectors and soil microbiology.​

📖Publications

“Isolation of Bacillus thuringiensis serovar israelensis VCRC-B650 from Indian clay soil with enhanced mosquitocidal activity and dehairing property”
  • Authors: Kakhuangailiu Gangmei, Jibi Lukose, Abhisubesh Vijayakumar, Hemaladkshmi Padmanaban, Sahadiya Mandodan, Bhagyashree Bora, Manikandan Sivaprakasam, Aneha Kunnikuruvan, Mathivanan Ashokkumar, Vijayakumar Balakrishnan, Geetha Irudayaraj, Poopathi Subbiah​
  • Journal: BioControl​
  • Year: 2025
“A review on vector borne diseases and various strategies to control mosquito vectors”
  • Authors: Kakhuangailiu Gangmei, Bhagyashree Bora, Sahadiya Mandodan, V. Abhisubesh, K. Aneha, S. Manikandan, Jibi Lukose, M. Ashokkumar, S. Poopathi​
  • Journal: Indian Journal of Entomology​
  • Year: 2024
“A New Aqueous Formulation from Indigenously Isolated Bacillus Thuringiensis Israelensis VCRC B646 for Mosquito Control”
  • Authors: A. Vijayakumar, S. Mandodan, K. Aneha, K. Gangmei, H. Padmanaban, B. Bora, S. Manikandan, J. Lukose, M. Ashokkumar, S. Poopathi
  • Journal: Indian Journal of Entomology​
  • Year: 2024
“Applications of nanomaterials in mosquito vector control: a review”
  • Authors: Sahadiya Mandodan, Aneha Kunnikuruvan, Bhagyashree Bora, Hemaladkshmi Padmanaban, Abhisubesh Vijayakumar, Kakhuangailiu Gangmei, Manikandan Sivaprakasam, Jibi Lukose, Mathivanan Ashokkumar, Vijayalakshmi Krishnamoorthy, Subbiah Poopathi​
  • Journal: Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine​
  • Year: 2023
“Isolation of a novel mosquitocidal bacterium Bacillus cereus VCRC-641 from fresh water fish Clarias batrachus”
  • Authors: S. Manikandan, Jibi Lukose, P. Hemaladkshmi, Bhagyashree Bora, V. Abhisubesh, K. Gangmei, Aneha Kunnikuruvan, S. Poopathi​
  • Journal: Indian Journal of Entomology​
  • Year: 2022​