Konstantinos Vlachonasios | Plant Development | Research Excellence Award

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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.

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Ehsan Sadeghnezhad | Plant Physiology | Research Excellence Award

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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.

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Shoaib Zawar | Plant Cell Biology | Young Scientist Award

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Mr. Shoaib Zawar | Plant Cell Biology | Young Scientist Award

Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture Multan | Pakistan

A highly motivated and diligent individual with a strong passion for learning, research, and professional growth in the field of agronomy. Possessing a solid academic foundation, including a Master’s degree in Agronomy with a focus on Crop Physiology, and a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture (Agronomy), the candidate has consistently demonstrated excellence in academic performance, achieving top grades throughout the studies. The master’s research focused on innovative strategies such as seed pretreatment and foliar application of micronutrients to enhance drought tolerance in pulses, reflecting a strong interest in sustainable crop management and stress physiology. Recognized for dedication and academic achievements through prestigious scholarships, the individual exhibits a commitment to continuous self-improvement, discipline, and teamwork. Eager to leverage theoretical knowledge and practical experience to contribute to research and development in agriculture, particularly in crop productivity, stress tolerance, and resource-efficient farming practices. The candidate is driven to engage in projects that promote sustainable agriculture and address global food security challenges, demonstrating a proactive approach toward problem-solving and innovation. With strong analytical skills, perseverance, and a passion for advancing agronomic knowledge, this professional is well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to the scientific community, agricultural research, and educational initiatives.

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Mansoor Abu Hatim | Plant Biotechnology | Research Excellence Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mansoor Abu Hatim | Plant Biotechnology | Research Excellence Award

Amran University | Yemen

An Associate Professor of Botany with specialization in plant biotechnology, plant physiology, and plant ecology, bringing over thirteen years of university-level teaching and academic advising experience. Expertise includes teaching core botanical disciplines such as plant physiology, anatomy, ecology, classification, and medicinal and aromatic plants, along with supervising undergraduate research projects. Research experience is strongly focused on plant biology and biotechnology, with particular emphasis on date palm micropropagation, embryogenic cell suspension cultures, and the application of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi for plant growth enhancement and protection. The scholar has authored peer-reviewed journal articles as first author, published two academic books, and contributed chapters to edited volumes. Active participation in international scientific conferences reflects engagement with the global research community. Academic excellence has been recognized through multiple prestigious awards, including professional, research excellence, and best researcher honors, highlighting sustained contributions to teaching, research, and scientific advancement in plant sciences.

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Featured Publication

Josefina Patricia Fernandez Moreno | Plant Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Josefina Patricia Fernandez Moreno | Plant Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

University of Cordoba | Spain

Dr. Josefina Patricia Fernández Moreno is a plant biologist and biotechnologist whose research focuses on crop improvement through molecular, physiological, and biochemical approaches. Her work explores the genetic and metabolic regulation of bioactive compounds and stress responses in plants. During her master’s research, she investigated the functional role of the Sl-MYB12 transcription factor in the biosynthesis of polyphenols in tomato fruit using Virus-Induced Gene Silencing, contributing to the understanding of secondary metabolism regulation. Her current collaborations involve elucidating the role of ethylene signaling, particularly the EIN3 transcription factor, in early nodulation processes of Medicago truncatula, aiming to improve nitrogen-fixing efficiency. Additionally, she contributes to a comprehensive review on glycine betaine’s multifaceted roles in plant defense, emphasizing its influence on abiotic and biotic stress tolerance in crops. Beyond her academic contributions, she has applied her expertise in biotechnology as an adviser for an agricultural start-up focused on in-vitro culture and specialized metabolite production. Her research integrates molecular biology, plant physiology, and biotechnology to develop sustainable strategies for enhancing crop resilience and productivity under environmental stress conditions.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications:

Fernandez-Moreno, J.-P., Yaschenko, A. E., Fenech-Torres, M., Zhao, C., Neubauer, M., Brumos, J., Davis, H., Marchi, A. J., Concannon, R., Keren, A., Levitsky, V., Ascencio-Ibanez, J. T., Goldshmidt, A., Zemlyanskaya, E., Alonso, J. M., & Stepanova, A. N. (2025). EBSnew, a robust synthetic reporter for monitoring ethylene responses in plants. Plant Biotechnology Journal, 0, 1–19. Müller, S., Stegmann, T., Adema, K., Holmer, R., van Seters, A., van Velzen, R., Kulikova, O., Wijsman, T., Klein, J., Fernandez-Moreno, J.-P., Stepanova, A. N., Alonso, J. M., Franssen, H., Larrainzar, E., van Zeijl, A., & Kohlen, W. (2025). Spatiotemporal dynamics of ethylene biosynthesis shape infection and nodule initiation in Medicago truncatula. Plant Cell. (Submitted).

Balakireva, A. V., Karataeva, T. A., Karampelias, M., Mitiouchkina, T. Y., Morozov, V. V., Macháček, J., Shakhova, E. S., Perfilov, M. M., Belozerova, O. A., Palkina, K. A., Drazna, N., Vondrakova, Z., Kalachova, T., Fleiss, A., Fernandez-Moreno, J.-P., Alonso, J. M., Stepanova, A. N., Fakhranurova, L. I., Markina, N. M., … Sarkisyan, K. S. (2025). Non-invasive imaging of salicylic and jasmonic acid activities in planta. Nature Communications. (Submitted).

Biswal, A. K., Banasiak, A., Fernandez-Moreno, J.-P., Mitra, M., Harholt, J., Derba-Maceluch, M., Majda, M., Kushwah, S., Kumar, V., Abreu, I., Sivan, P., Pattathil, S., Immerzeel, P., Gorzsás, A., Moritz, T., Hahn, M. G., Scheller, H. V., Aharoni, A., & Mellerowicz, E. J. (2025).* Cuticle deposition in the leaf epidermal cells depends on integrity of homogalacturonan. iScience, 25, 113963.

Fernandez-Moreno, J.-P., Yaschenko, A. E., Neubauer, M., Marchi, A. J., Zhao, C., Alonso, J. M., & Stepanova, A. N. (2024). A rapid and scalable approach to build synthetic repetitive hormone-responsive promoters.

Siyabonga Ntshalintshali | Plant Sciences | Young Scientist Award

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Mr. Siyabonga Ntshalintshali | Plant Sciences | Young Scientist Award

University of Zululand | South Africa

Mr. Siyabonga Ntshalintshali is a Master’s candidate in Plant Sciences at the University of Zululand with research expertise in plant stress physiology, focusing on abiotic and biotic stress tolerance mechanisms in food and indigenous crops. His academic journey builds on a BSc in Agronomy, where he earned the Dean’s Award twice for academic excellence. He has contributed to advancing sustainable agriculture through published and ongoing studies on nitrate priming in Bambara groundnut under salinity stress, host–pathogen interactions involving Fusarium verticillioides and maize, and the effects of Macrophomina phaseolina on crop performance. His research outputs include two peer-reviewed journal articles in the Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science (Wiley) and Plant Stress (Elsevier), both indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, with additional manuscripts submitted to Science of the Total Environment and Planta. According to Google Scholar, he has authored 2 documents with a citation count of 2 and an h-index of 1, reflecting an emerging but growing impact in his field. Siyabonga’s commitment to promoting underutilized crops such as Bambara groundnut has been recognized through awards, including second-best presentation at a scientific symposium. He is a registered Candidate Natural Scientist with SACNASP and actively contributes to advancing resilient and sustainable agricultural systems.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications:

Khawula, S., Daniel, A. I., Nyawo, N., Ndlazi, K., Sibiya, S., Ntshalintshali, S., … (2025). Optimizing plant resilience with growth-promoting Rhizobacteria under abiotic and biotic stress conditions. Plant Stress, 100949.

Ntshalintshali, S., Sibiya, S. G. P., Mabuza, N., Nkomo, M., & Buthelezi, L. G. (2025). Seed priming in legume crops: Mechanisms, applications and future directions for enhanced germination, growth and abiotic stress tolerance in sustainable agriculture: A review. Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science, 211(5), e70115.

Justine Kipruto Kitony | Plant Genomics | Excellence in Research Awards

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Dr. Justine Kipruto Kitony | Plant Genomics | Excellence in Research Awards

Dr. Justine Kipruto Kitony | Salk Institute for Biological Studies | United States

Dr. Justine K. Kitony is a postdoctoral fellow in Plant Genomics and Breeding at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies. With over a decade of experience in plant genomics, bioinformatics, and breeding, he integrates cutting-edge sequencing technologies with field phenotyping and genomic prediction to uncover trait-function relationships in key crops. Him work bridges fundamental science and agricultural application, contributing to climate-resilient breeding strategies and sustainable seed systems. Justine has led and co-authored high-impact publications in top journals such as Nature and Nature Communications, with notable contributions in cannabis, baobab, and sorghum pangenomics. Passionate about collaborative science, he has mentored early-career researchers and coordinated cross-functional research teams across Asia, Africa, and the U.S. he is driven by the goal of enhancing crop performance under environmental stress while preserving biodiversity and advancing food and energy security globally.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Education:

Dr. Kitony holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences (Quantitative Genetics and Genomics) from Nagoya University, Japan, where he developed a novel nested association mapping (NAM) population in rice to dissect complex traits. he earned him M.Sc. in Bioinformatics from Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, China, focusing on transcriptome analysis of rice blast resistance. Him academic foundation in computer science and databases was laid with a B.Sc. in Information Technology from RMIT University, Australia. Across these programs, he has acquired multidisciplinary expertise combining computational biology, statistical genetics, molecular biology, and plant breeding. This diverse educational background uniquely positions him to lead genomics-driven research for sustainable crop improvement. Him international academic journey reflects him adaptability and global research outlook, equipping him with the skills necessary to solve real-world agricultural challenges using cutting-edge tools.

Experience:

Currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Salk Institute, Dr. Kitony leads the sorghum pangenome project within the Harnessing Plants Initiative. he integrates ONT and HiFi sequencing with trait mapping, GWAS, and CRISPR target discovery for crop improvement. Previously, at Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), he designed and managed large-scale field trials for rice and cotton, implemented genotyping pipelines, and supported seed system delivery. he also has industry experience as a systems consultant, managing large-scale databases and automating data workflows. Him experience spans from field phenotyping and molecular biology to cloud-based bioinformatics and genomic prediction. A proven leader, he has mentored students, authored key publications, and collaborated across disciplines and geographies. Him field-to-lab translational research expertise makes him an invaluable asset in advancing data-driven, sustainable breeding solutions.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Kitony’s contributions have earned him international recognition. he is a JICA Development Studies Fellow and an active member of the Japanese Society of Breeding. he serves as a Topic Coordinator for Frontiers in Plant Science and reviewer for multiple Springer Nature journals, reflecting him scientific leadership and credibility. Him research has received wide acclaim, including recent first-author publications in Nature and Nature Communications. he is frequently invited to contribute to major genomics projects and collaborative research efforts across institutions. Him educational and research fellowships reflect both academic merit and a commitment to global development goals. Through capacity-building roles and farmer-outreach programs, he has further shown a strong drive for science impact beyond academia.

Research Focus:

Dr. Kitony’s research focuses on plant genomics, trait discovery, and sustainable crop improvement. he specializes in GWAS, QTL mapping, pangenomics, transcriptomics, and genomic selection, aiming to uncover the genetic basis of traits related to stress tolerance, yield, and adaptation. he applies high-throughput sequencing (PacBio, ONT, Hi-C) and multi-environment field phenotyping using UAVs, LiDAR, and spectral imaging to support breeding decisions. He work emphasizes integrative multi-omics, applying CRISPR target prioritization and genomic prediction in crops like rice, sorghum, baobab, and cannabis. By connecting computational biology and real-world agriculture, him goal is to develop climate-smart, high-yielding, and biodiversity-supportive seed systems. he also champions open-access data practices, reproducible pipelines, and collaborative research, ensuring him innovations are scalable and impactful across regions, particularly in the Global South.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Domesticated cannabinoid synthases amid a wild mosaic cannabis pangenome – Nature

  2. Chromosome-level baobab genome illuminates its evolutionary insights – Nature Communications

  3. Nested Association Mapping Population in Crops: Current Status and Future Prospects – J. Crop Sci. Biotech.

  4. Development of an aus-derived Nested Association Mapping (aus-NAM) Population in Rice – Plants

  5. Rice_Phospho 1.0: a new rice-specific SVM predictor for protein phosphorylation sites – Scientific Reports

  6. Utilization of genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) for rice pre-breeding and improvement: A review – Life

  7. Chromosome-level baobab genome illuminates its evolutionary trajectory and environmental adaptation – Nature Communications

  8. Domesticated cannabinoid synthases amid a wild mosaic cannabis pangenome – Nature

  9. Pangenome of US ex-PVP and Wild Sorghum Reveals Structural Variants and Selective Sweeps – bioRxiv

  10. Soil depth determines the microbial communities in Sorghum bicolor fields – Microbiology Spectrum

Conclusion:

Dr. Justine K. Kitony exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher worthy of a Research for Excellence Award. He deep expertise in plant genomics, leadership of high-impact projects, strong publication record, and dedication to mentoring mark him as a leading figure in crop genetics and breeding. While there are areas for growth such as expanding him international and public engagement, these do not detract from him significant scientific contributions. Recognizing Dr. Kitony would not only honor him achievements but also encourage continued innovation in sustainable agriculture, genomic research, and capacity development — fields critical to addressing global challenges related to food security and biodiversity conservation.

Muhammad Waseem | Crop Breeding and Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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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.

Muhammad Piracha | Plant Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Muhammad Piracha | Plant Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr.  Muhammad Piracha, University of Sargodha, Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Awais Piracha is a dedicated soil scientist with a Ph.D. in Soil Science from the University of Sargodha (2020). He has specialized in the biogeochemistry of toxic metals and the remediation of contaminated soils using organic amendments such as biochar, compost, and farmyard manure. His academic journey has been marked by significant contributions to plant physiology under metal stress conditions like arsenic and cadmium. Dr. Piracha gained international exposure as a Visiting Research Scholar at Texas A&M University under the HEC-funded IRSIP program. He is currently serving as Assistant Professor at the College of Agriculture, University of Sargodha. With 18 research articles, a book chapter, and multiple presentations at international conferences, he is recognized for his scientific rigor and impactful research. His work has earned him prestigious accolades, including the Agricultural Youth Leadership Award, reflecting his potential as one of Pakistan’s leading young researchers in environmental and agricultural sciences.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Solid Academic Foundation: Ph.D. in Soil Science with a strong focus on environmental toxicology and remediation.

  2. Innovative Research: Specialized in phytoremediation of toxic heavy metals (arsenic, cadmium) using sustainable organic amendments.

  3. International Recognition: Selected as a Visiting Scholar at Texas A&M University under the IRSIP (HEC Pakistan), reflecting global acknowledgment of research potential.

  4. Publication Record: Published 18 peer-reviewed research articles, 1 book chapter, and 4 abstracts, with growing citations—showing significant contributions to scientific literature.

  5. Awards & Distinctions: Winner of the Agricultural Youth Leadership Award (NAYC, 2019), demonstrating leadership in the agricultural research community.

  6. Teaching & Mentorship: Currently serving as Assistant Professor, actively engaged in knowledge transfer and capacity building in soil science.

  7. Conference Participation: Presented at multiple international conferences, staying engaged in scholarly discourse.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Wider International Collaboration: Although he has had international exposure, forming long-term collaborative projects or co-authoring with international teams could increase impact.

  2. Grant Acquisition: Securing research grants or funded projects from national or international agencies would strengthen his research leadership profile.

  3. Public Engagement & Policy Impact: Translating research into policy briefs, extension programs, or community impact projects could enhance visibility and societal relevance.

  4. Diversification of Research Themes: Expansion into emerging topics such as climate-smart agriculture, nanotechnology in soil science, or AI in precision agriculture could broaden research scope.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Muhammad Awais Piracha holds a Ph.D. in Soil Science from the University of Sargodha (2013–2020), where his research centered on toxic metal biogeochemistry, phytoremediation, and plant stress physiology. He previously earned an M.Sc. (Hons.) in Soil Science from the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad (2011–2013), conducting advanced studies in soil salinity, water management, and soil fertility. His undergraduate studies were also at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, culminating in a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture with a major in Soil Science (2007–2011). Throughout his academic journey, he demonstrated exceptional analytical and experimental skills, contributing to scientific understanding in both national and international settings. A notable highlight of his Ph.D. studies was his selection for the International Research Support Initiative Program (IRSIP), allowing him to conduct research at Texas A&M University, USA. His academic training blends theoretical depth with practical expertise in modern soil and environmental science.

💼 Experience:

Dr. Piracha has over a decade of hands-on and academic experience in soil and environmental sciences. Since September 2023, he has been serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Soil & Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture, University of Sargodha. Prior to that, he worked as a Scientific/Agriculture Officer (Lab) at the Soil and Water Laboratory for Research in D.G. Khan from April 2022 to June 2023. He also held the position of Lab Chemist at Alpha Seed Corporation, Mian Channu, District Khanewal, from November 2021 to March 2022. His career reflects a strong commitment to research, academic instruction, and practical application of soil remediation technologies. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he has conducted lab-based research, published scientific articles, and mentored students, making him a well-rounded academician and researcher in the domain of sustainable agriculture and environmental management.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Muhammad Awais Piracha’s academic excellence and scientific contributions have earned him prestigious accolades. He was awarded the International Research Support Initiative Program (IRSIP) fellowship by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan during his Ph.D. studies, allowing him to conduct collaborative research at Texas A&M University, USA. In recognition of his leadership and research in agriculture, he received the Agricultural Youth Leadership Award in 2019 from the National Agricultural Youth Commission (NAYC) Pakistan. These honors reflect both national and international acknowledgment of his work in soil science, particularly in the areas of soil contamination, phytoremediation, and plant stress physiology. In addition to these formal awards, his consistent presence in international conferences and active participation in scholarly forums underscores his commitment to knowledge exchange and scientific innovation. His award history positions him as a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award, with demonstrated impact and leadership in his field.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Piracha’s research focuses on soil biogeochemistry, particularly the dynamics of arsenic and cadmium in different soil textures. He explores phytoremediation techniques using organic amendments such as biochar, compost, and farmyard manure to reduce toxic metal mobility and improve soil health. His work also delves into the physiological responses of plants under heavy metal stress, aiming to understand tolerance mechanisms and improve crop resilience. Another area of focus includes the interaction between soil salinity, sodicity, and boron toxicity, crucial for arid and semi-arid agricultural systems. His integrated approach combines soil chemistry, plant physiology, and environmental sustainability, making his research highly relevant to modern agricultural challenges. By bridging lab-based experiments with field applicability, Dr. Piracha contributes to both academic knowledge and practical agricultural improvement. His efforts in sustainable soil management underscore his eligibility for recognition as a leading researcher in environmental and soil sciences.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧪 Arsenic behavior in different textured soils amended with phosphate rock and farm yard manure – J. Environ. Agric. (2016)

  2. 🔬 The production of biochar and its possible effects on soil properties and phosphate solubilizing bacteria – J. Appl. Agric. Biotechnol. (2016)

  3. 🌱 Growth behavior of tomato under drought stress with silicon and PGPR – Soil Environ. (2016)

  4. 💧 Challenges and opportunities for using wastewater in agriculture: A review – J. Appl. Agric. Biotechnol. (2017)

  5. 🔥 Optimization of nitrogen regulates ionic homeostasis and quality of maize under salinity – Environ. Exp. Bot. (2024)

  6. 🌻 Arsenic fractionation and physiological response in sunflower in calcareous soils – Environ. Sci. Pollut. Res. (2019)

  7. ⚗️ Alteration in arsenic dynamics in response to phosphorus in textured soils – Chemosphere (2022)

  8. 🌾 Adequate nutrient regulation improves cotton adaptability under salinity stress – J. Appl. Agric. Biotechnol. (2016)

  9. 🌿 Bio-associative effect of rhizobacteria on mungbean under saline conditions – J. Appl. Agric. Biotechnol. (2016)

  10. 🚜 Farm yard manure and nutrients improve cotton adaptation to salinity – Internal paper (details inferred)

📝 Conclusion:

Dr. Muhammad Awais Piracha is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His deep specialization in soil biogeochemistry and phytoremediation, strong academic publication record, international exposure, and commitment to teaching and mentoring make him an outstanding contributor to environmental and agricultural sciences. With minor enhancements in international collaboration and grant leadership, he is well on track to becoming a leading figure in sustainable soil and environmental management.

Zahoor Ahmad | Crop Physiology | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc Prof Dr Zahoor Ahmad |  Crop Physiology |  Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at  University of Central Punjab, Pakistan

Associate Professor, Campus Coordinator University of Central Punjab, Constituent Punjab College Bahawalpur.

Profile:

Academic Qualifications:

  • Post-Doctorate: Department of Field Crops, Faculty of Agriculture, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey (January 17 – September 17, 2020)
  • Ph.D. in Crop Physiology: University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan (Completed on December 13, 2015)
    • Thesis Title: Maize (Zea mays L.) Responses to Supplemental Foliar Applied Phosphorus under Drought Stress
  • M.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture (Agronomy/Crop Physiology): University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan (2011)
    • Thesis Title: Response of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) to Foliar Applied Potassium Sulphate (K2SO4)
  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture (Agronomy/Crop Physiology): University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan (2009)
  • Intermediate (F.Sc. Pre-medical): BISE Bahawalpur (2005)
  • Matric (Science): BISE Bahawalpur (2002)

Professional Experience:

  • Assistant Professor, Head of Botany Department: Constituent College of University of Central Punjab, Bahawalpur (October 2, 2020 – Present)
  • Post-Doctoral Researcher: Department of Field Crops, Faculty of Agriculture, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey (January 17 – September 17, 2020)
  • Visiting Faculty Member: Department of Life Sciences (Botany), The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (October 4, 2017 – January 10, 2020)
  • Lecturer: Allama Iqbal College Bahawalpur (September 15, 2017 – December 31, 2019)
  • Assistant Professor: Cholistan Institute of Desert Studies (CIDS), The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan (July 19, 2016 – July 18, 2017)

Research Interests:

  • Understanding the physiological limitations to crop productivity under field and controlled conditions.
  • Exploring abiotic stress tolerance (drought, salinity, heavy metals, heat) through foliar application of nutrients and trace elements.
  • Identifying morphological, physiological, and biochemical traits for enhanced stress tolerance in crops.
  • Screening germplasm for stress tolerance traits and developing methodologies for productivity enhancement under abiotic stress conditions.

Conclusion:

Considering Dr. Zahoor Ahmad’s research focus, academic background, professional experience, publication record, and contribution to crop physiology under abiotic stress conditions, he seems to be a suitable candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” His work is significant for improving crop resilience and productivity, making him a valuable contributor to agricultural sciences.

Citations:

  • 1,729 Citations from 1,395 documents
  • 91 Documents authored
  • h-index of 22

Publication Top Notes:

  • Modulating Physiological and Antioxidant Responses in Wheat Cultivars via Foliar Application of Silicon Nanoparticles (SiNPs) Under Arsenic Stress Conditions
    Ahmad, Z., Younis, R., Ahmad, T., Alharby, H.F., Alsamadany, H. (2024). Silicon, 16(12), 5199–5211.
  • Silicon-Mediated Improvement in Maize (Zea mays L.) Resilience: Unrevealing Morpho-Physiological, Biochemical, and Root Attributes Against Cadmium and Drought Stress
    Sabir, A., Waraich, E.A., Ahmad, M., Ahmad, Z., Bibi, S. (2024). Silicon, 16(7), 3095–3109. (1 Citation)
  • Improving Alkaline Stress Tolerance in Maize through Seed Priming with Silicon Nanoparticles: A Comprehensive Investigation of Growth, Photosynthetic Pigments, Antioxidants, and Ion Balance
    Alsamadany, H., Alharby, H.F., Ahmad, Z., Alzahrani, Y.M., Almaghamsi, A. (2024). Silicon, 16(5), 2233–2244.
  • Enhancing the Physiological and Biochemical Potential of Praecitrullus fistulosus L. through Synergistic Action of Biochar and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles
    Sana, S., Binyamin, A., Ramzan, M., Avila-Quezada, G.D., Abd-Allah, E.F. (2024). Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition.
  • Perspectives of Nanoparticles as Priming Agents for Amelioration of Abiotic Stresses in Crops
    Ahmad, Z., Waraich, E.A., Iqbal, M.A., Ahmed, S., Bano, S. (2024). In The Nanotechnology Driven Agriculture: The Future Ahead (pp. 117–137).
  • Prospects of Nanotechnology for Abiotic and Biotic Stresses Amelioration in Field Crops
    Ahmad, Z., Waraich, E.A., Barutçular, C., Ahmad, M., Bano, S. (2024). In The Nanotechnology Driven Agriculture: The Future Ahead (pp. 67–84).
  • Effect of Form of Silicon and the Timing of a Single Foliar Application on Sugar Beet Yield
    Siuda, A., Artyszak, A., Gozdowski, D., Ahmad, Z. (2024). Agriculture (Switzerland), 14(1), 86.
  • Ecofriendly Management of Insect Pests for Sustainable Agriculture
    Abbasi, A., Asif, A., Ahmad, Z., Saleha, A., Zafar, Z. (2023). In Climate-Resilient Agriculture, Volume 2, pp. 931–957. (1 Citation)
  • Climate Change and Global Crop Production
    Ahmad, Z., Ahmad, T., Abbasi, A., Sana, S., Jameel, J. (2023). In Climate-Resilient Agriculture, Volume 1, pp. 27–56. (1 Citation)
  • Silicon-Mediated Growth, Physiological, Biochemical and Root Alterations to Confer Drought and Nickel Stress Tolerance in Maize (Zea mays L.)
    Ishaq, H., Waraich, E.A., Hussain, S., Ahmad, Z., Saifullah. (2023). Silicon, 15(15), 6579–6589. (1 Citation)