Konstantinos Vlachonasios | Plant Development | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Konstantinos Vlachonasios | Plant Development | Research Excellence Award

Aristotle University of Thessaloniki | Greece

Vlachonasios Konstantinos is a Professor of Plant Molecular Physiology at the School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. His research focuses on plant physiology, molecular responses to environmental stress, and postharvest biology of horticultural crops. He earned his PhD in Horticulture from Michigan State University, USA, and has held academic positions at Aristotle University, progressing from Assistant to Associate Professor before attaining full Professorship. His work integrates molecular, physiological, and biotechnological approaches to improve crop resilience and fruit quality. He has contributed extensively to plant science literature, advancing knowledge in stress physiology, ripening, and postharvest management.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

6000
4000
2000
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100
0

Citations
1,129

Documents
33

h-index
19

Citations

Documents

h-index

Featured Publications

Ehsan Sadeghnezhad | Plant Physiology | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ehsan Sadeghnezhad | Plant Physiology | Research Excellence Award

School of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. | Iran

Dr. Ehsan Sadeghnezhad is an Assistant Professor in biotechnology with a strong research profile and an H-index of 19, reflecting consistent scholarly impact. His work focuses on advancing modern biotechnological approaches, with contributions published in reputable international journals indexed in Web of Science. He is actively engaged in interdisciplinary research, addressing fundamental and applied challenges in biological sciences. Through his publications, citations, and academic collaborations, he has contributed to the development of innovative methodologies and scientific knowledge. He is also involved in mentoring students and fostering research-driven education, supporting the growth of biotechnology research at national and international levels.

Citation Metrics (Google Scholar)

1000
750
500
250
100
50
0

Citations
901

h-index
19

i10-index
33

Citations

h-index

i10-index

Featured Publications

Zhihua Wu | Allergen | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Zhihua Wu | Allergen | Best Researcher Award

Nanchnag University | China

Dr. Zhihua Wu is a leading researcher in the field of food science and nanobiotechnology, with a focus on food protein processing, allergen characterization, and functional food development. His work explores the structural and immunological properties of food allergens, particularly those derived from peanuts, soybeans, and almonds, aiming to elucidate mechanisms underlying allergenicity and cross-reactivity. He employs advanced analytical tools such as mass spectrometry, metabolomics, and molecular modeling to investigate how food processing, polyphenol interactions, and roasting alter protein structures and immune responses. Dr. Wu’s recent studies have provided key insights into epitope localization and allergen modification for risk reduction in plant-based foods. His ongoing research projects, funded by major Chinese national programs, include developing safety evaluation and risk mitigation techniques for plant-derived food resources and mapping IgE-binding epitopes of 2S albumins. He also contributes to the understanding of food flavor chemistry, especially changes in tea aroma compounds during processing and storage. Recognized through multiple provincial and national science awards, Dr. Wu’s research advances the interface of food safety, protein chemistry, and functional nutrition, offering innovative strategies for producing hypoallergenic and health-promoting food products.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications:

Wu, Z., Gao, K., Geng, Q., Hu, C., Zhang, W., Li, X., Tong, P., Yang, A., & Chen, H. (2025). Impact of the polyphenol structure on the allergenic potential of the peanut allergen Ara h 2. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 73(28), 17967–17979.

Hu, C., Luo, Q., Zhou, L., Zhu, W., Gao, K., Geng, Q., Li, X., Yang, A., Tong, P., Wu, Z., & Chen, H. (2025). Purification of Pru du 6 from almond and its cross-reactivity with Gly m 6 from soybean. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(11), 5425.

Zhang, Y., Zhang, J., Li, X., Yang, A., Tong, P., Wu, Z., & Chen, H. (2025). Untargeted metabolomics reveals changes in serum metabolism in peanut-allergic mice treated by raw and roasted peanuts. Food Science and Human Wellness.

Zhou, W., Geng, Q., Zhang, Y., Zhou, X., Wu, Z., Chen, H., & El-Sohaimy, S. (2024). The flavonoid-allergen interaction and its influence on allergenicity. Food Bioscience, 61, 104939. h

Zhang, Y., Geng, Q., Song, M., Li, X., Yang, A., Tong, P., Wu, Z., & Chen, H. (2024). The structure and potential allergenicity of peanut allergen monomers after roasting. Food & Function, 15, 2577–2586.

Emine Mine Soylu | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Emine Mine Soylu | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Hatay Mustafa Kemal University | Turkey

Prof. Dr. Emine Mine Soylu is a prominent academic in the field of plant pathology, with a career spanning over three decades dedicated to plant protection, host-pathogen interactions, and disease management strategies in crops. She began her professional journey as a Research Assistant at Akdeniz University and has since contributed significantly to scientific research through both experimental studies and scholarly publications. Her work is widely recognized, with a particular focus on the identification and control of fungal and bacterial diseases in economically important plants. Prof. Soylu has published 54 scientific documents in internationally refereed journals and has amassed a total of 3,749 citations, reflecting the substantial impact of her work in the field. Her h-index is 25, indicating consistent and high-quality contributions to science over the years. Her research includes first reports of various plant diseases in Türkiye and in-depth studies on disease resistance mechanisms and biochemical plant responses. Prof. Soylu’s contributions continue to shape the future of sustainable agriculture and plant health, and her collaborations extend across national and international scientific communities. Her scholarly output and citation metrics demonstrate her strong influence in the field of phytopathology and plant-microbe interactions.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ScopusOrcid

Featured Publications:

  • “Preliminary Characterization of Race-Specific Elicitors From Peronospora parasitica and Its Ability to Elicit Phenolic Accumulation in Arabidopsis”

  • “First Report of Downy Leaf Spot of Walnuts Caused by Microstroma juglandis in Turkey”

  • “Induction of Disease Resistance by the Plant Activator, Acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM), Against Bacterial Canker (Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis) in Tomato Seedlings”

  • “First Report of Powdery Mildew Caused by Erysiphe heraclei on Dill (Anethum graveolens) in Turkey”

  • “Light and Electron Microscopy of the Compatible Interaction Between Arabidopsis and the Downy Mildew Pathogen Peronospora parasitica”

  • “Induction of Defence Related Enzymes and Resistance by the Plant Activator Acibenzolar-S-methyl in Tomato Seedlings Against Bacterial Canker Caused by Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis”

  • “First Report of Cercospora Leaf Spot on Swiss Chard Caused by Cercospora beticola in Turkey”

  • “First Report of Phloeospora Leaf Spot on Mulberry Caused by Phloeospora maculans (=Cylindrosporium maculans) in the Eastern Mediterranean Region of Turkey”

  • “Induction of Disease Resistance and Antioxidant Enzymes by Acibenzolar-S-methyl Against Bacterial Canker (Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis) in Tomato”

  • “First Report of Powdery Mildew Caused by Podosphaera phaseoli (syn. Sphaerotheca phaseoli) on Cowpea (Vigna sinensis) in Turkey”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Muhammad Waseem | Crop Breeding and Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Waseem | Crop Breeding and Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Waseem | College of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry Hainan University | China

Dr. Muhammad Waseem is an accomplished plant molecular biologist serving as an Associate Researcher at the College of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, China. He earned his Ph.D. in Biology from Chongqing University, specializing in transcription factors and gene family analysis. With a research portfolio encompassing fruit development, phytohormones, abiotic stress, non-coding RNAs, and bioinformatics, Dr. Waseem has co-authored numerous impactful publications in high-ranking journals. His work primarily explores the molecular and genomic basis of plant adaptation, development, and stress response, particularly in key crops like tomato, rice, Brassica, and lupin. He actively mentors undergraduate and graduate students, contributing significantly to academic training and research innovation. His impressive citation count (1582), h-index (21), and strong international collaborations underscore his scientific influence. Dr. Waseem exemplifies research excellence and innovation in modern plant science.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

Education:

Dr. Muhammad Waseem holds a Ph.D. in Biology from Chongqing University, China, where he investigated transcription factors involved in tomato development and gene families. He earned his M.Phil. in Botany from Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan, building a solid foundation in plant sciences. Throughout his academic career, Dr. Waseem demonstrated a strong inclination toward molecular biology and bioinformatics, bridging experimental and computational plant science. His educational trajectory highlights a blend of classical botany and modern molecular genetics. Both institutions are known for fostering innovation, and Dr. Waseem’s academic path reflects interdisciplinary expertise across plant physiology, genomics, and stress biology. His Ph.D. and M.Phil. work laid the groundwork for his prolific research contributions to plant development and adaptation, particularly under environmental stresses, in major food and model crops.

Experience:

Dr. Waseem has amassed extensive research and mentoring experience in plant molecular biology. He has been serving as an Associate Researcher at Hainan University, China, where he leads cutting-edge projects on crop adaptation to tropical environments. He actively mentors undergraduate and graduate students, guiding them in research on phytohormones, non-coding RNAs, and transcriptomics. Previously, during his Ph.D. and M.Phil., he engaged in several collaborative and independent projects involving functional gene identification and bioinformatic analysis. His academic roles consistently included supervision, lab management, and experimental design in areas like genomics, stress response, and crop development. His international research collaborations reflect a strong network across China, Pakistan, and beyond. His recent outputs demonstrate leadership in publishing high-impact research and securing co-first or corresponding authorship in most publications. His career trajectory shows a steady progression from early researcher to a recognized scientific contributor in plant biotechnology.

Research Focus:

Dr. Waseem’s research spans plant developmental biology, stress physiology, and functional genomics, with special emphasis on fruit development, flowering regulation, abiotic stress (salinity, drought, thermal), and phytohormonal pathways. His work frequently utilizes RNA-Seq, bioinformatics, and non-coding transcriptome analysis to uncover molecular mechanisms underlying plant resilience and development. He has studied critical crops including tomato, rice, Brassica napus, and white lupin, identifying gene families such as transcription factors, PEPC, and calmodulin. His investigations often link gene expression patterns to phenotypic plasticity under adverse conditions, especially in tropical climates. Dr. Waseem is also deeply involved in transgene analysis and genome-wide association studies (GWAS), helping identify novel candidate genes for crop improvement. His research is highly collaborative and translational, aiming to enhance crop tolerance and productivity through molecular breeding and biotechnological tools. He integrates molecular biology, bioinformatics, and field-relevant data for applied plant science.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Integrated transcriptome and metabolome insights into floral buds fertility under long-term heat stress in Brassica napus

  2. Abscisic acid-mediated salinity stress tolerance in crops

  3. Long non-coding RNAs in Brassica crops: hijackers of development and stress responses

  4. Expression and characterization of calmodulin-like genes in watermelon under abiotic stress

  5. lncRNA landscape linked to cadmium and arsenic stress in Huanghuazhan rice

  6. Genetic characterization of Solanaceae species via chloroplast rps14 gene

  7. PEPC gene family identification in Brassica napus via bioinformatics

  8. Morphological and molecular diversity of rust and host-specificity in Berberis species

  9. Omics-driven strategies for saline-smart lentils: A comprehensive review

  10.  Nitrogen metabolism and physiology in cotton on sandy soils

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Dr. Muhammad Waseem stands out as a highly competent, emerging leader in plant molecular biology and crop stress physiology. His research contributions are timely, relevant, and advancing our understanding of plant resilience under environmental stresses. His expertise in RNA biology, transcriptome/metabolome integration, and hormone-mediated stress regulation is both deep and expansive. Given his publication record, scientific impact, and dedication to mentoring, he is highly suitable for a Best Researcher Award, especially within the early- to mid-career category. With continued focus on practical innovation and research translation, he is poised to become a major contributor to global agricultural sustainability and food security.

Franciely da Silva Ponce | Agronomic | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr Franciely  da Silva Ponce |  Agronomic |  Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr at  Universidade Paranaense,  Brazil

Franciely da Silva Ponce is a full professor in the Agronomic Engineering course at Paranaense University (UNIPAR) and a faculty member of the Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology Applied to Agriculture. She holds a Ph.D. in Agronomy (Horticulture) from São Paulo State University (UNESP), where her research focused on the integrated management of Lepidoptera pests in brassicas using Trichogramma pretiosum. Franciely completed her Master’s degree in Environment and Agricultural Production Systems at the State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), focusing on the environmental and economic aspects of cabbage cultivation. Her undergraduate degree in Agronomy was also obtained from UNEMAT, where she researched the propagation of Byrsonima cydoniifolia. She has additional training in plant biochemistry and cultural management. Her research interests include tropical horticulture, vegetable production, pest management, and integrated pest management. Franciely has been involved in various research and extension activities, including technology transfer in vegetable production and teaching at multiple institutions.

Profile:

Academic Background:

🎓 PhD in Agronomy (Horticulture)
São Paulo State University (UNESP), Brazil
Title: Integrated Management of Lepidoptera Pests in Brassicas Using Trichogramma pretiosum Riley
Year: 2021

🎓 Master’s in Environment and Agricultural Production Systems
State University of Mato Grosso (UNEMAT), Brazil
Title: Environmental, Productive and Profitability Analysis of Cabbage Cultivation
Year: 2018

🎓 Degree in Agronomy
Mato Grosso State University (UNEMAT), Brazil
Title: Feasibility of Using Cuttings and Indolbutyric Acid in the Propagation of Murici
Year: 2015

Current Positions:

👩‍🏫 Full Professor
Paranaense University (UNIPAR), Brazil

  • Agronomic Engineering Course
  • Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology Applied to Agriculture

Research Interests:

🌿 Tropical Horticulture

  • Horticulture and Society
  • Management and Production of Vegetable Species
  • Integrated Pest Management
  • Protected Cultivation
  • Non-Conventional Vegetables
  • Post-Harvest Vegetables
  • Cost and Profitability of Vegetable Production

Professional Experience:

  • Scholarship Holder, Research Fellow
    Mato Grosso State University (UNEMAT)

    • Vegetable Cultivation in Protected Environments
  • Guest Professor
    Mato Grosso State University (UNEMAT)

    • Production and Quality of Vegetables (Master’s course)

Publication Top Notes:

  • Melon Cultivation Under Agrotextile Increases Production and Reduces Phytosanitary Products
  • Profitability and Efficiency of Conduction Systems and Optimal Tomato Density for Fresh Consumption
  • Desafios e Perspectivas do Manejo da Traça-do-Tomateiro
  • Do the Training System and Spacing Affect the Productivity and Quality of Tomato Plants?
  • Adubação Silicatada na Produtividade e Respostas Fisiológicas das Plantas
  • Effect of Polycarbonate and Agricultural Film on Production and Biochemical Compounds of Tomato Fruits
  • Produtividade, Custo e Rentabilidade de Couve Produzida Sob Túnel Baixo
  • Does the Physiological Trade-Off Between Reproduction and Defense Affect the Physiological and Biochemical Parameters of Tomato Plants Infested with Bemisia tabaci MED and MEAM1?
  • Dispersão de Trichogramma pretiosum Riley (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) em Cultivos de Couve e Repolho
  • Teores de Macro e Micronutrientes em Plantas de Jambu Cultivadas em Ambiente Protegido
  • Controle Cultural de Nematoides em Alface, Utilizando Cobertura de Solo e Consórcio com Cravo-de-Defunto
  • Curva de Absorção de Água em Sementes de Sete Cascas em Função do Tamanho
  • Produção e Qualidade de Melão Amarelo Submetido a Diferentes Sistemas de Plantio
  • Viabilidade Agroeconômica do Cultivo de Híbridos Tomateiro de Hábito Determinado no Período de Safra e Entressafra na Região Central Matogrossense
  • Viabilidade do Uso de Estacas e Ácido Indolbutírico na Propagação de Murici (Byrsonima cydoniifolia A. Juss.)
  • Produção de Cultivares de Almeirão Sob Diferentes Telados e Campo Aberto em Clima Tropical
  • Curva de Absorção de Nutrientes em Jambu (Spilanthes oleracea L.), Cultivado em Sistema Hidropônico
  • Índices Morfofisiológicos de Alface Produzidas em Diferentes Substratos Sob Ambiente Protegido

 

Deucleiton Jardim Amorim | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Mr  Deucleiton Jardim Amorim | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Candidate PhD at  UNESP,  Brazil

Graduado em Agronomia pela Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA, 2020), possui curso técnico em Agropecuária pelo Centro Familiar de Formação por Alternância e ensino médio profissionalizante – CEFFA (2012-2014). Mestre em Proteção de Plantas e Doutorando em Proteção de Plantas pela Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho – Unesp/FCA.

Profile:

Formação Acadêmica:

  • Doutorado em andamento em Agronomia (Proteção de Plantas)
    • Instituição: Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), Brasil
    • Orientador: Silvia Renata Siciliano Wilcken
    • Coorientador: Luis Garrigós Leite
    • Ano de início: 2022
    • Bolsista: Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)
  • Mestrado em Agronomia (Proteção de Plantas)
    • Instituição: Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), Brasil
    • Título: Prospecção de bactérias no controle biológico de nematoide-das-galhas (Meloidogyne incognita) e promoção de crescimento vegetal
    • Ano de obtenção: 2022
    • Orientador: Silvia Renata Siciliano Wilcken
    • Coorientador: Luis Garrigós Leite
    • Bolsista: Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)
    • Palavras-chave: Controle biológico; Bacillus; Pseudomonas; Nematoide-das-galhas
    • Grande área: Ciências Agrárias
  • Graduação em Agronomia
    • Instituição: Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA), Brasil
    • Título: Alternativas de manejo para controle de Pratylenchus brachyurus na cultura da soja
    • Orientador: José Roberto Brito Freitas
    • Ano de conclusão: 2019
  • Curso técnico/profissionalizante em Técnico em Agropecuária
    • Instituição: Centro Familiar de Formação por Alternância Manoel Monteiro (CEFFA), Brasil
    • Ano de conclusão: 2014

Formação Complementar:

  • Taxonomia de fungos micorrízicos arbusculares (35h) – Universidade Estadual da Região Tocantina do MA (UEMASUL), 2018
  • Suplementação mineral para bovinos de corte (4h) – Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA), 2017
  • Rotinas básicas de software QGIS aplicadas à agricultura: gestão e manuseio (8h) – Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA), 2017
  • Implantação de pastagens (8h) – Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA), 2016
  • Componente Solo nos Sistemas de ILPF (10h) – Serviço Nacional de Aprendizagem Rural (SENAR), 2016
  • Práticas de manejo das principais culturas do tabuleiro de São Bernardo (8h) – Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA), 2016

Atuação Profissional:

  • Professor de Fitopatologia e Entomologia – Universidade Estadual da Região Tocantina do Maranhão (UEMASUL)
  • Engenheiro Agrônomo – Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA)
  • Técnico em Agropecuária – Centro Familiar de Formação por Alternância e ensino médio profissionalizante (CEFFA)

Research Focus: Agronomy

  • Plant Protection: Given their master’s and doctoral studies in Plant Protection, their research is likely focused on strategies and technologies to safeguard crops from pests, diseases, and weeds.
  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Developing and optimizing IPM strategies to manage pest populations while minimizing environmental impact.
  • Crop Disease Management: Studying plant pathogens and disease dynamics to develop resistant crop varieties or effective management practices.
  • Pest Biology and Ecology: Researching the biology and ecology of crop pests to better understand their life cycles and interactions with crops.
  • Herbicide Resistance: Investigating mechanisms of herbicide resistance in weeds and developing alternative control methods.
  • Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Exploring sustainable approaches to crop protection that align with broader agricultural sustainability goals.

Publication Top Notes:

  • “Bacillus, Pseudomonas and Serratia control Meloidogyne incognita (Rhabditida: Meloidogynidae) and promote the growth of tomato plants”
    Rhizosphere
    2024-09
    DOI: 10.1016/j.rhisph.2024.100935
  • “Response of plants used in cover crop mix to Meloidogyne enterolobii, Meloidogyne incognita and Pratylenchus brachyurus”
    Pesquisa Agropecuária Tropical
    2023
    DOI: 10.1590/1983-40632023v5375822
  • “Logística, indicadores socioeconômicos e perdas pós-colheita de hortifrútis em cinco cidades Maranhenses”
    Revista Ibero-Americana de Ciências Ambientais
    2021-03-28
    DOI: 10.6008/CBPC2179-6858.2021.005.0054
  • “Casca de arroz carbonizada como substrato alternativo na propagação por estaquia de ixora (Ixora coccínea)”
    Revista Ibero-Americana de Ciências Ambientais
    2021-02-10
    DOI: 10.6008/CBPC2179-6858.2021.002.0003
  • “Aspectos da comercialização e perdas pós-colheita de beterraba em diferentes segmentos varejistas”
    Research, Society and Development
    2020-09-18
    DOI: 10.33448/rsd-v9i10.8191
  • “Substrato a base de bagana de carnaúba na propagação vegetativa de Ocimum basilicum”
    Research, Society and Development
    2020-09-06
    DOI: 10.33448/rsd-v9i9.7879
  • “Postharvest losses of fruits and vegetables in different microregions of Maranhão, Brazil”
    Revista Ibero-Americana de Ciências Ambientais
    2020-06-05
    DOI: 10.6008/CBPC2179-6858.2020.005.0056
  • “Perdas pós-colheita e destinação final de frutas em segmentos comerciais de Teresina (PI)”
    Revista Ibero-Americana de Ciências Ambientais
    2020-04-02
    DOI: 10.6008/CBPC2179-6858.2020.003.0034

 

 

Nadezda Verkhovtseva | Soil Pollution | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr Nadezda Verkhovtseva |  Soil Pollution |  Best Researcher Award

professor at MSU (Moscow State University named after M.V. Lomonosov,  Russia

Dr. N. Verkhovtseva is a distinguished Professor at the Department of Agrochemistry and Plant Biochemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU). She pursued her studies in Agrochemistry at MSU, where she also earned her Ph.D. in 1975. Dr. Verkhovtseva has had a notable academic journey, having taught at Yaroslavl State University before joining the esteemed research group led by Kondrat’eva at MSU. In 1994, she obtained her Doctor of Science degree in Microbiology and subsequently secured the position of Professor at MSU’s Faculty of Soil Science. Her prolific career includes the publication of over 180 articles in both Russian and international journals. Dr. Verkhovtseva’s research contributions have earned her a significant citation index, with 46 citations in Web of Science, 57 in Scopus, and 984 in Science Index. She has authored eight books, holds one patent, and serves as the executive editor of the journal Problems of Agrochemistry and Ecology. Her professional memberships include the Soil Science Society. Dr. Verkhovtseva’s expertise and dedication have significantly advanced the fields of agrochemistry and plant biochemistry.

Profile

 

🎓 Academic and Professional Background:

Dr. N. Verkhovtseva studied Agrochemistry at Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU), Russia. After graduation, she entered the graduate school of the same university and received her PhD in Agrochemistry in 1975. She then taught at Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia, before joining the research academic group of Kondrat’eva at MSU. In 1994, she received her Doctor of Science degree in Microbiology from MSU and became a professor in the Department of Agrochemistry and Plant Biochemistry, Faculty of Soil Science. She has published over 180 articles in both Russian and international journals.

🔬 Research and Innovations:

  • Citation Index: Web of Science: 46, Scopus: 57, Science index: 984
  • Books Published (ISBN): Eight
  • Patents: One published/under process
  • Journals Published (SCI, Scopus, etc.): 180

 

📚 Areas of Research:

  • Agrochemistry
  • Plant Biochemistry
  • Microbiology

 

🧪 Research Focus: Soil Pollution

Dr. Verkhovtseva’s research primarily focuses on soil pollution, investigating the impacts of contaminants on soil health and plant biochemistry. Her work aims to develop effective strategies for mitigating soil pollution and enhancing soil remediation techniques. Her contributions in this area have been instrumental in understanding the complex interactions between pollutants and soil ecosystems.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Effect of an Equal Dose of Polymetallic Pollution on the Microbiological Characteristics of Two Soils with Different Organic Carbon Contents

2. Metabolomic Analysis of Rhizosphere Soil Fertility in Maize (Zea mays) at Milking Stage

3. Physical-Tomographic Characteristics and Structure of Bacterial Community of the Agrophysical System “Germinating Roots—Pore Space of Soils” (Physical Model Experiment)

4. Structure of the Soil Pore Space in the Seedling Bed Before the Seedling Stage: Studies Using the Microtomography Method

5. X-ray Computed Tomography of the Structure of Roots and Dynamics of Soil Biota in the Early Growth Stages of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)

6. Aggregate Formation in a Kaolinite Suspension during Microbiological Modification of Clay Surface

7. Physical and Microbiological Aspects of the Soil Seed Bed in the Early Formation of the Barley Root System (Hordeum vulgare L.): Tomographic Studies

8. The Effect of Ericoid Mycorrhizal and Ectomycorrhizal Plants on Soil Properties of Grass Meadow in Tundra of the Khibiny Mountains

9. Formation of Microaggregates in Kaolinite Suspension Inoculated by Bacillus velezensis (SEM-investigations)

10. Chemodiagnostic by Lipid Analysis of the Microbial Community Structure in Trace Metal Polluted Urban Soil

 

Ahmad Sharifi | Plant Biotechnology | BioAgri Innovator Excellence Award

Assist Prof Dr Ahmad Sharifi |  Plant Biotechnology  |  BioAgri Innovator Excellence Award

Research Institute for Industrial Biotechnology, Iranian Academic Centre for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR)- Khorasan Razavi Branch at  Horticultural Plants Biotechnology Department,  Iran

Dr. Ahmad Sharifi is a dedicated faculty member at the Ornamental Plant Biotechnology Department of the Iranian Academic Center for Education, Culture & Research (ACECR). With a PhD in Agricultural Biotechnology from Ferdowsi University of Mashhad (2015), Dr. Sharifi also holds an MSc (2003) and a BSc (2000) in Agricultural Sciences from Ferdowsi University of Mashhad and the Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Gorgan, respectively.

Profile:

Academic Qualifications:

🎓 BSc: Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Gorgan, 2000
🎓 MSc: Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, 2003
🎓 PhD: Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, 2015

 

Areas of Expertise:

🌿 Plant Biotechnology
🌱 Plant Tissue Culture

 

Research Focus: Plant Biotechnology

  • Plant Tissue Culture:
    • Development and optimization of in vitro culture techniques for ornamental plants.
    • Somatic embryogenesis and organogenesis in various plant species.
    • Micropropagation protocols for large-scale production of disease-free plants.
  • Genetic Engineering:
    • Genetic transformation methods to enhance desirable traits in ornamental plants, such as disease resistance and improved flower quality.
    • CRISPR/Cas9 and other gene-editing technologies for targeted genetic modifications.
  • Molecular Biology:
    • Analysis of gene expression patterns and molecular pathways involved in plant growth and development.
    • Use of molecular markers for plant breeding and genetic diversity studies.
  • Biotechnological Applications:
    • Production of secondary metabolites and phytochemicals through biotechnological approaches.
    • Application of biotechnology for sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation.
  • Bioreactor Systems:
    • Utilization of bioreactor systems for the mass propagation of ornamental plants.
    • Scaling up plant tissue culture techniques for commercial applications.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Optimization of the in-vitro culture protocol of Haworthiopsis viscosa and Haworthia truncata var. truncate

  • Authors: Kharrazi, M., Sargazi Moghaddam, Z., Moradian, M., Khadem, A., Sharifi, A.
  • Journal: South African Journal of Botany, 2024, 169, pp. 506–514

2. Micropropagation and ex vitro rooting of three ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia Engl.) cultivars

  • Authors: Kharrazi, M., Moradian, M., Moghaddam, Z.S., Khadem, A., Sharifi, A.
  • Journal: In Vitro Cellular and Developmental Biology – Plant, 2023, 59(1), pp. 129–139

3. Role of AGAMOUS Gene in Increasing Tepals of Amaryllis

  • Authors: Dastmalchi, S., Moshtaghi, N., Sharifi, A.
  • Journal: Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology, 2023, 25(4), pp. 975–988

4. Auxin sensitivity improves production of rosmarinic acid in transformed hairy roots of Lavandula angustifolia

  • Authors: Khadem, A., Bagheri, A., Moshtaghi, N., Akhar, F.K., Sharifi, A.
  • Journal: Biological Communications, 2022, 67(3), pp. 160–167

5. In vitro propagation and callus induction of medicinal endangered plant meadow rue (Thalictrum minus L.) for producing berberine

  • Authors: Moghaddam, Z.S., Moshtaghi, N., Sharifi, A., Zahedi, A., Khadem, A.
  • Journal: Journal of Medicinal Plants, 2022, 21(81), pp. 92–101

 

 

 

 

Zaryab Murad | Plant Growth | Young Scientist Award

Mr Zaryab Murad |  Plant Growth  |  Young Scientist Award

Ph.D. Scholar at  Huazhong Agriculture University, China

Zaryab Murad, born on April 14, 1996, is a Pakistani national currently residing in Wuhan, Hubei, China. With a solid academic background in Soil and Environmental Sciences, he is pursuing his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) at Huazhong Agriculture University. Zaryab completed both his Master of Sciences (Hons) and Bachelor of Sciences (Hons) in Agriculture at The University of Agriculture Peshawar, Pakistan. His research focuses on the effects of bentonite clay and biochar on soil contamination and plant growth. Professionally, he has served as a Field Survey Project Manager at TAMEER-E-KHALAQ Foundation, where he works towards improving food security and agricultural practices. Additionally, he has held the position of Agriculture Policy Officer at the Agriculture Extension Department in KP, Pakistan. Fluent in Urdu and proficient in English, Zaryab has been recognized for his contributions to the field, including being a Gold Medalist at his alma mater. His technical skills include expertise in MS Office, Endnote, Statistics 8.1, Graphpad, and Sigmaplot.

Profile: 

Education and Training:

Zaryab Murad is a Doctoral candidate in Soil Science at Huazhong Agriculture University, Wuhan, China, with a focus on soil and environmental sciences. He completed his Master of Sciences (Hons) and Bachelor of Sciences (Hons) in Agriculture at The University of Agriculture Peshawar, Pakistan. His research includes the effects of bentonite clay and biochar on soil contamination and plant growth. He has gained hands-on experience with various soil analysis techniques, including using Flame Photometers and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometers.

Work Experience:

Currently, Zaryab is a Field Survey Project Manager at TAMEER-E-KHALAQ Foundation, where he focuses on agricultural development and food security. He has previously served as an Agriculture Policy Officer at the Agriculture Extension Department in KP, Pakistan. His work involves enhancing production, facilitating value addition, and improving crop varieties.

Honors and Awards:

  • Gold Medalist, The University of Agriculture Peshawar, 2022

Certificates and Trainings:

  • Attended workshops and congresses on sustainable soil management and weed science.
  • Participated in the HZAU Happy Festival at Huazhong Agriculture University.

Research Focus: Plant Growth

Zaryab Murad’s research focuses on enhancing plant growth through innovative soil management techniques. His work primarily investigates the effects of soil amendments, such as bentonite clay and biochar, on the phytoavailability of heavy metals and overall plant health. Zaryab’s research aims to improve crop yields and soil fertility while mitigating contamination effects. His studies include evaluating how biochar and other amendments can stabilize heavy metals in soil and enhance the growth of various crops, particularly in contaminated environments. This research contributes to sustainable agricultural practices by improving soil conditions and plant resilience against pollutants.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Murad, Z., Bibi, S., Ahmad, S.E.Y., Manan, U., & Younas, M. (2024). Stabilization of Cd in Soil by Biochar and Growth of Rice (Oryza sativa) in Artificially Contaminated Soil. Sarhad Journal of Agriculture, 40(1), 231–245.
  • Khan, U., Irfan, M., Murad, Z., Waleed, M., & Kamal, A. (2023). Enhancing Lettuce Growth and Cadmium and Lead Tolerance Through Biochar and Bacteria. Gesunde Pflanzen, 75(6), 2685–2696.
  • Ilyas, M., Khan, M.J., Murad, Z., Ullah, A., & Farhan. (2023). Biofortification of Iron in Wheat Varieties Using Different Methods of Application. Gesunde Pflanzen, 75(5), 2177–2185.
  • Murad, Z., Ahmad, I., Waleed, M., Hashim, S., & Bibi, S. (2022). Effect of Biochar on Immobilization of Cadmium and Soil Chemical Properties. Gesunde Pflanzen, 74(1), 151–158.
  • Tariq, M., Khan, M.O., Hussain, A., Khalil, M.K., Muhammad, S., & Murad, Z. (2021). Impact of Soil and Foliar Application of Various Zinc Sources on the Yield and Uptake by Onion Under Agroclimatic Condition of Swat. International Journal of Agricultural and Statistical Sciences, 17, 2363–2376.