Irena Roterman | Protein structure | Best Researcher Award

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Irena Roterman | Protein structure | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Irena Roterman , Jagiellonian University – Medical College , Poland

Irena Roterman-Konieczna is a distinguished biochemist specializing in bioinformatics and protein structure. With a PhD in biochemistry from the Nicolaus Copernicus Medical Academy Krakow, she has held significant academic positions, including Professor of Medical Sciences at Jagiellonian University. Irena is recognized for her innovative contributions, particularly the fuzzy oil drop model, which emphasizes environmental influence on protein folding. She has published extensively, contributing to the understanding of protein dynamics and interactions. As a committed educator, she has guided numerous PhD students and served as the Chief Editor for the journal Bio-Algorithms and Med-Systems. Her work continues to impact the fields of protein folding, membrane proteins, and systems biology.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

Irena Roterman-Konieczna’s extensive academic background and innovative contributions to the field of bioinformatics and protein structure make her an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her pioneering work on the fuzzy oil drop model has provided critical insights into the environmental influences on protein folding. With a prolific publication record of 149 articles, she has consistently advanced the understanding of protein dynamics, particularly in membrane proteins and chaperonins. Additionally, her role as Chief Editor of the journal Bio-Algorithms and Med-Systems demonstrates her leadership in the scientific community. Her commitment to mentoring future researchers is evident through her advisory work with 15 PhD students, ensuring the continued growth of the field.

Areas for Improvement

While Irena’s contributions to theoretical models are significant, there may be opportunities to further integrate experimental validation into her research. Collaborating with experimentalists could enhance the practical applications of her models, particularly in understanding real-world protein behavior. Additionally, increasing outreach to interdisciplinary fields could broaden the impact of her research on medicine and biotechnology.

Education

Irena Roterman-Konieczna completed her basic education in theoretical chemistry at Jagiellonian University in 1974. She earned her PhD in biochemistry in 1984, focusing on the structure of the recombinant IgG hinge region at the Nicolaus Copernicus Medical Academy in Krakow. Following her doctoral studies, Irena undertook postdoctoral research at Cornell University from 1987 to 1989 in Harold A. Scheraga’s group, where she analyzed force fields in molecular modeling programs like Amber and Charmm. In 1994, she achieved habilitation in biochemistry at Jagiellonian University’s Faculty of Biotechnology and later attained the title of Professor of Medical Sciences in 2004. This strong educational foundation laid the groundwork for her extensive research and contributions to the field of biochemistry and bioinformatics.

Experience

Irena Roterman-Konieczna has a robust academic and research background spanning several decades. She has held key academic positions at Jagiellonian University, where she is currently a Professor of Medical Sciences. Irena’s postdoctoral research at Cornell University deepened her expertise in molecular modeling and protein interactions. Throughout her career, she has authored numerous publications and books, significantly advancing the understanding of protein folding and structure. As Chief Editor of the journal Bio-Algorithms and Med-Systems from 2005 to 2020, she played a vital role in disseminating research in the field. Additionally, she has supervised 15 PhD students, fostering the next generation of researchers. Irena’s collaborative efforts and advisory roles in various projects highlight her commitment to scientific advancement and education in biochemistry and bioinformatics.

Research Focus

Irena Roterman-Konieczna’s research centers on bioinformatics, particularly in understanding protein structure and dynamics. Her innovative fuzzy oil drop model explores the role of environmental factors in protein folding, proposing that external force fields influence hydrophobic core formation and overall structure. Irena investigates the effects of membrane environments on protein behavior, examining how hydrophobic factors can alter folding dynamics. Her work also delves into chaperonins and their role in facilitating proper protein folding under varying conditions. Additionally, she explores domain-swapping structures and their implications for complex formation in proteins. Irena’s research emphasizes the necessity of simulating external force fields in computational protein folding, integrating both internal and external interactions. Her contributions to systems biology and the development of quantitative models for protein behavior continue to advance the field, making significant impacts in both theoretical and practical applications.

Publications Top Notes

  • Chameleon Sequences─Structural Effects in Proteins Characterized by Hydrophobicity Disorder 🌊
  • Transmembrane proteins—Different anchoring systems ⚓
  • External Force Field for Protein Folding in Chaperonins─Potential Application in In Silico Protein Folding 💻
  • Structural features of Prussian Blue-related iron complex FeT of activity to peroxidate unsaturated fatty acids 🔬
  • Domain swapping: a mathematical model for quantitative assessment of structural effects 📊
  • Editorial: Structure and function of trans-membrane proteins 🧬
  • Model of the external force field for the protein folding process—the role of prefoldin 🌐
  • Role of environmental specificity in CASP results 📈
  • Ab initio protein structure prediction: the necessary presence of external force field as it is delivered by Hsp40 chaperone 🔍
  • Secondary structure in polymorphic forms of alpha-synuclein amyloids 🧪

Conclusion

Irena Roterman-Konieczna’s innovative research, leadership in academia, and dedication to mentorship position her as a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. Her groundbreaking work in bioinformatics not only advances scientific understanding but also lays the groundwork for future discoveries in protein dynamics and interactions. Recognizing her contributions would not only honor her achievements but also inspire ongoing research in the field.

 

 

Yufeng Liu | photosynthesis | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Yufeng Liu | photosynthesis | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Yufeng Liu , Shenyang Agricultural University , China

Professor Yufeng Liu is a distinguished academic at the Modern Facilities Horticultural Engineering Technology Center, Shenyang Agricultural University, China. With a rich background in horticulture and vegetable science, he has dedicated his career to advancing agricultural innovation and sustainability. His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of photosynthesis and stress responses in plants, particularly tomatoes. Professor Liu has made significant contributions to greenhouse technology and energy-efficient cultivation methods. He is recognized for his commitment to education and research, inspiring a new generation of horticulturists. As a member of various professional societies, he actively collaborates on national projects, driving impactful advancements in the field.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

Professor Yufeng Liu is a highly accomplished researcher in the field of horticultural science, particularly known for his work on photosynthesis and stress responses in plants. His strong academic background, highlighted by a PhD in Vegetable Science and significant positions at Shenyang Agricultural University, showcases his commitment to advancing agricultural practices. With 30 publications in indexed journals and 16 patents, he has made substantial contributions to both theoretical and applied research. His innovative technologies in greenhouse cultivation and understanding of stress mechanisms in tomatoes have implications for enhancing crop resilience, making him a valuable asset to the scientific community. His recent recognition through the Changjiang Scholar Award further validates his impact and leadership in horticultural engineering.

Areas for Improvement

While Professor Liu has demonstrated exceptional research capabilities, expanding his outreach to engage with industry stakeholders could enhance the practical application of his findings. Increased collaboration with international researchers may also lead to broader perspectives and innovations in his research. Further, developing more interdisciplinary projects could strengthen his work’s relevance in global agricultural challenges.

Education 

Professor Yufeng Liu obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture from Shandong Agricultural University in 2009. He pursued his PhD in Vegetable Science at Shenyang Agricultural University, completing it in 2009. His academic journey continued as he transitioned into various teaching roles at the same institution. In March 2012, he became a Lecturer, followed by promotion to Associate Professor in November 2017. By November 2021, he achieved the position of Professor. His educational achievements are complemented by participation in prestigious programs, including the Changjiang Scholar Award Program for Young Scholars in August 2023 and his role as a National bulk vegetable technical system post scientist since August 2022.

Experience 

Professor Yufeng Liu has extensive teaching and research experience spanning over a decade at Shenyang Agricultural University. His roles have evolved from Lecturer to Professor, allowing him to influence academic curricula and guide numerous graduate students. With a focus on innovative agricultural practices, he has led 16 completed and ongoing research projects, resulting in 30 published articles in indexed journals and 16 patents related to greenhouse technology and plant cultivation techniques. His expertise lies in photosynthesis, stress mechanisms, and calcium regulation in plants, contributing to advancements in stress-resistant vegetable cultivation. Additionally, his editorial role as a Guest Editor for the journal 《Horticulture》 showcases his leadership in the scientific community, and his active memberships in the Chinese Horticultural Society and Chinese Society of Agricultural Engineering reflect his commitment to professional collaboration and knowledge dissemination.

Awards and Honors 

Professor Yufeng Liu’s achievements have garnered him several prestigious awards and recognitions. He was honored with the Changjiang Scholar Award in August 2023, acknowledging his contributions to horticultural science as a young scholar. As a National bulk vegetable technical system post scientist since August 2022, he has played a critical role in developing advanced agricultural techniques. His promotions within Shenyang Agricultural University—from Lecturer to Professor—highlight his impact on academia and research. Furthermore, his contributions to the field have resulted in 16 patents and multiple publications in high-impact journals. Liu’s dedication to enhancing agricultural practices and fostering innovation is evident through his active involvement in professional societies, where he collaborates on various industry projects, strengthening his reputation as a leader in horticultural engineering.

Research Focus 

Professor Yufeng Liu’s research primarily explores the intricate processes of photosynthesis, plant stress responses, and calcium dynamics in horticultural crops. His significant contributions include clarifying molecular mechanisms of photosynthetic disorders in tomatoes under low night temperatures, which aids in developing stress-resistant varieties. Liu has investigated photoprotection mechanisms, contributing to the understanding of how tomatoes cope with adverse environmental conditions. He also focuses on innovative technologies for the efficient cultivation of facility vegetables, emphasizing energy-saving techniques in greenhouse operations. His work has resulted in breakthroughs in the prevention and control of soil-related obstacles in vegetable production. Through 16 ongoing and completed projects, Liu continues to innovate and enhance cultivation strategies, aligning his research with global agricultural sustainability goals.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the UPF0016 family in tomato under drought stress 🌱
  2. Galactinol Regulates JA Biosynthesis to Enhance Tomato Cold Tolerance ❄️
  3. Light quality regulates plant biomass and fruit quality through a photoreceptor-dependent HY5-LHC/CYCB module in tomato 🌞
  4. Microorganisms regulate soil phosphorus fractions in response to low nocturnal temperature 🌍
  5. Progress on the UPF0016 family in plants 🌿
  6. Analysis of YUC and TAA/TAR Gene Families in Tomato 📊
  7. Effects of Low Temperature on Pedicel Abscission and Auxin Synthesis Key Genes of Tomato ❄️
  8. Genome-wide investigation of the phospholipase C gene family in Solanum lycopersicum and abiotic stress analysis 🌱
  9. Detection of Cucumber Powdery Mildew Based on Spectral and Image Information 🥒
  10. Effects of CO2 Enrichment on Carbon Assimilation, Yield and Quality of Oriental Melon Cultivated in a Solar Greenhouse 🌞🍈

Conclusion

Professor Yufeng Liu’s impressive body of work, academic achievements, and ongoing commitment to research make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions not only advance scientific understanding but also offer practical solutions to pressing agricultural issues. By fostering industry connections and broadening his collaborative efforts, he can further amplify the impact of his research on global horticulture. Recognizing him with this award would acknowledge his valuable contributions and inspire further innovation in the field.

 

 

Chikezie Onuora Ene | Genotypes | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Chikezie Onuora Ene | Genotypes | Young Scientist Award

Lecturer II of Alex Ekwueme-Federal University, Nigeria

Dr. Chikezie Onuora Ene is a passionate researcher and educator in the field of crop science. He is focused on enhancing crop yields and quality under challenging environmental conditions through advanced molecular breeding techniques. With a strong academic background and practical experience in teaching and research, Dr. Ene is committed to advancing agricultural science and improving food security. 🌾🌱👨‍🏫

Profile :

Educational Background :

  • Ph.D. in Plant Breeding (2019-2023) – Jimma University, Ethiopia. Thesis: “Genetic analysis and quantitative trait loci mapping for selected quantitative traits in tomato (Solanum spp.)” (GPA: 3.86/4.00).
  • M.Sc. in Plant Breeding and Genetics (2013-2017) – University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria. Thesis: “Variability and heritability studies in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)” (CGPA: 4.91/5.00).
  • B.Sc. in Crop Production and Protection (2006-2011) – Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria. Thesis: “Performance of three soybean (Glycine max L. Merril) varieties under varying weeding regimes” (CGPA: 4.62/5.00) – First Class Honours.

Professional Experience :

Since 2017, Dr. Ene has been a Lecturer in the Crop Science Department at Alex Ekwueme-Federal University, Ndufu-Alike Ikwo (AE-FUNAI), Ebonyi State, Nigeria. He teaches a range of crop science courses including Crop Taxonomy, Anatomy and Physiology, Arable Crops Production, Principle of Crop Protection, Crop Breeding and Genetics, Principle of Crop Production, Permanent Crop Production, and bio-statistics/Field experimentation. Previously, he worked as a Research/Laboratory Assistant at the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) in Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria (2009-2010), conducting research on yam breeding, plant protection, tissue culture, and in-vitro propagation and multiplication of cassava, cocoyam, yam, and other crops. He also served as a Field Enumerator/Farm Attendant for the Ministry of Agriculture, Abia State (2009-2010), where he collated data on rural cassava farmers and related stakeholders. Additionally, Dr. Ene taught agricultural science at Kono Secondary School, Rivers State, Nigeria, as part of the National Youth Service Corps (2012-2013).

Research Focus :

Dr. Chikezie Onuora Ene is dedicated to improving fruit and grain yields and the quality of vegetables (cucumber, pepper, tomato) and cereals (maize) under various abiotic stresses such as heat stress, salinity, drought, and humidity. He focuses on plant molecular breeding techniques, particularly marker-assisted selection.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Ogah O., Ene C.O., Ebenyi L.N., Frederick O.O., Okpuru I.G., Nwankwo, S.E. (2024). Comparative assessment for nutritional and antinutritional qualities revealed better performance of traditional white-fleshed sweet potatoes than orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. 120/2: 1-17. Acta Agriculturae Slovenica. doi: https://doi.org/10.14720/aas.2024.120.2.15297 (WOS) (SCOPUS)
  • Ene, C.O., Abtew, W.G., Oselebe, H.O., Chukwudi, U.P., Okechukwu, E.C., Menamo, T.M., Ozi, F.U., Ene,K., Atugwu, A.I. (2024). Selfing revealed potential for higher yield performance than backcrossing among tomato segregating populations of Solanum lycopersicum × S. Pimpinellifolium crosses under tropical humid climate. Journal of Agriculture and Food Research. 15(2024): 100993. doi: https://doi.org/1016/j.jafr.2024.100993 (WOS) (SCOPUS)
  • Nwankwo, M.C., Ogwo, N., Oti, V.O., Nweze, N.O., Ohabuiro, A.A., Ene, O.C. (2023). Effects of indole butyric acid and coconut liquid endosperm on rooting of Crateva adansonii Journal of Biological Research & Biotechnology (Bio-Research). 21(2): 2003-2018. doi: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/br.v21i2.7s
  • Ene, C.O., Abtew, W.G., Oselebe, H.O., Ozi, F.U., Ogah, O., Okechukwu, E.C., Chukwudi, U.P. (2023). Hybrid vigour and heritability estimates in tomato crosses involving Solanum lycopersicum × pimpinellifolium under cool tropical monsoon climate. International Journal of Agronomy. Article ID 3003355. doi: https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/3003355 (WOS) (SCOPUS)
  • Ahaiwe, M.C, Nwoko, M.C., Ogwo, N., Ene, C.O. (2022). Effect of pasteurization techniques on productivity, morphology and mycochemical composition of Pleurotus ostreatus (JACQ.) fruit-bodies cultured on Andropogon gayanus Journal of Food and Fibre Production. 3(3): 15-25.
  • Ene, C.O., Abtew W.G., Oselebe, H.O., Ozi, F.U., Ikeogu, U.N. (2022). Genetic characterization and quantitative trait relationship using multivariate techniques reveals diversity among tomato germplasms. Food Science and Nutrition. 10: 2426-2442. doi: https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.2850 (WOS) (SCOPUS)
  • Inyang, P., Ene, C.O., Emmanuel, A., Chukwudi, U.P., Ikeogu, U.N. (2021). Environmental impact and genetic expressions of new drought-tolerant maize genotypes in derived savannah agro-ecology. Notulae Scientia Biologicae. 13(1): 10691. doi: https://doi.org/10.15835/nsb13110691 (SCOPUS)
  • Onyia, V.N., Chukwudi, U.P., Ezea, A.C., Atugwu, A.I., Ene, C.O. (2020). Correlation and path coefficient analyses of yield and yield components of eggplant (Solanum melongena) in a coarse-textured Ultisol. Information Processing in Agriculture. 7: 173–181. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.inpa.2019.03.005 (SCOPUS)
  • Ogwo, N., Ene, C.O.,Ahaiwe, M.C., Chukwudi, U.P. (2019). Influence of varying preservation methods on the shelf life and proximate composition of Pleurotus plumonarius (Fr) Quel cultivated on Andropogon gayanus International Journal of Agriculture, Environment and Food Sciences. 3(3): 162-170. doi: https://doi.org/10.31015/jaefs.2019.3.8
  • Uzoigwe, D.A., Muoneke, C.O., Nwokoro, C.C., Ene, C.O. (2019). Benefit cost analysis of orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) varieties under varying planting density. Notulae Scientia Biologicae. 11(1): 145-148. doi: https://doi.org/10.15835/nsb11110381 (SCOPUS)

 

Ahmad Sharifi | Plant Biotechnology | BioAgri Innovator Excellence Award

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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