Takwa Wannassi | Plant pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Takwa Wannassi | Plant pathology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Takwa Wannassi, CRRA Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia

Dr. Takwa Wannassi is a dedicated plant protection specialist and postdoctoral researcher at the Regional Center of Agricultural Research in Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia. With a Ph.D. in Plant Protection and Environment and an Engineering Degree in Horticulture, she brings advanced expertise in entomology, plant-microbe interactions, and sustainable agriculture. Her work is primarily focused on integrated pest management and ecological approaches to crop protection, particularly in Mediterranean agroecosystems. Dr. Wannassi has authored several impactful scientific publications and has contributed significantly to the understanding of invasive pest dynamics, particularly the apricot seed wasp. She plays a crucial role in the international PRIMA project “REVINE,” where she coordinates field trials, mentors students, and collaborates across scientific disciplines. Her dedication to sustainable farming solutions, her extensive research record, and her collaborative spirit make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar
Scopus
Orcid

Education:

Dr. Takwa Wannassi holds a Ph.D. in Plant Protection and Environment from Sousse University, Higher Institute of Agronomic Sciences of Chott Mariem (ISA-CM), completed in December 2022. Her doctoral work centered on invasive species and sustainable pest management in Tunisia, particularly the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi. She also holds an Engineer Degree in Horticulture with a specialization in Plant Protection, earned in July 2017 from the same institution. Her academic journey reflects a consistent focus on understanding ecological challenges in agriculture and developing innovative, sustainable solutions. Through both degrees, she acquired hands-on skills in molecular biology, field experimentation, pest identification, and biological control. Her academic excellence laid the foundation for her impactful contributions in agricultural research and sustainability science in the Mediterranean region.

Experience:

Since January 2025, Dr. Takwa Wannassi has been serving as a postdoctoral fellow at the Regional Center of Agricultural Research in Sidi Bouzid (CRRA), Tunisia, contributing to the international PRIMA Project “REVINE.” Her responsibilities include coordinating the research project, supervising graduate students, conducting field and lab trials, and analyzing data using R. Her work spans genomic analysis, molecular diagnostics, pest ecology, and microbiome studies. Previously, during her Ph.D., she gained extensive experience in pest ecology, molecular biology, and entomology, particularly in relation to invasive pests such as Eurytoma samsonowi. Dr. Wannassi also collaborates with international institutions, including during a research fellowship in Canada. She is proficient in preparing scientific publications and has presented her findings at major international conferences. Her multidisciplinary approach and leadership in sustainable agriculture research have earned her recognition at both national and international levels.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Takwa Wannassi has received several accolades in recognition of her contributions to agricultural science and research. In 2019, she earned the Best Poster Award at the Tunisia-Japan Symposium on Science, Society and Technology (TJASSST) for her research on pest behavior and pheromone-based management strategies. That same year, she was granted a Research Fellowship in Canada, allowing her to work at the University of Victoria, British Columbia for two months, enhancing her international research exposure and collaboration. Her continuous efforts in sustainable pest management, microbiome studies, and plant-pathogen interaction have positioned her as a promising researcher in plant protection. She is frequently invited to contribute to scientific conferences and peer-reviewed journals. Her achievements underline her scientific innovation, dedication to eco-agriculture, and her potential as a future leader in Mediterranean agricultural research.

Research Focus:

Dr. Takwa Wannassi’s research centers on plant protection, pest ecology, biological control, and plant-microbiome interactions, with a strong focus on sustainability. Her main scientific interest lies in understanding the behavior and biology of invasive pests like Eurytoma samsonowi, a major threat to apricot production in Tunisia. She utilizes molecular tools, including 16S rRNA sequencing, to explore bacterial communities and Wolbachia infections in pest populations. Additionally, she investigates the role of beneficial rhizobacteria and microbial consortia in disease suppression and grapevine health as part of the PRIMA “REVINE” project. Through multidisciplinary approaches, she integrates entomology, microbiology, and bioinformatics to develop innovative pest management strategies aligned with climate-smart agriculture. Her goal is to promote ecosystem services, biodiversity, and resilience in Mediterranean cropping systems through regenerative and eco-friendly practices.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1. Insights on the bioecology of the invasive apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi in Tunisia (Biologia, 2023)

  2. Emergence of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi as an economic pest of apricots in Tunisia (Phytoparasitica, 2022)

  3. Prevalence of Wolbachia infection in field populations of the apricot seed wasp (International Microbiology, 2024)

  4. Exploration of bacterial composition and diversity within Eurytoma samsonowi via 16S rRNA sequencing (Symbiosis, 2025)

  5. Harnessing a Microbial Consortium and Compost to Control Grapevine Pathogens (Horticulturae, 2025)

  6. Investigating the potential role of beneficial rhizobacteria for grapevine health and growth (Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 2025)

  7. Biocontrol Assessment of Trichoderma Species on Tomato Crops Infested by Curvularia Spicifera (Frontiers, 2025)

  8. Divergent bacterial abundance and diversity in Eurytoma samsonowi revealed by 16S rRNA (Biochem & Microbiology Congress)

  9. Assessment of damage by Eurytoma samsonowi on apricot fruits in Tunisia (INAT Symposium Poster, 2018)

  10.  Delta traps with virgin females attract Eurytoma samsonowi males: Pheromone control potential (TJASSST, 2019)

Conclusion:

Dr. Takwa Wannassi is an emerging leader in plant protection and agroecology, with a proven record of excellence in research, publishing, and project management. Her work on invasive pest control, microbial consortia, and regenerative viticulture directly addresses critical challenges in Mediterranean and global agriculture. Her multidisciplinary approach, international recognition, and active mentorship highlight her readiness for continued leadership in science. She is highly suitable and deserving of the Best Researcher Award, as she exemplifies innovation, academic rigor, and a commitment to sustainable agricultural development.

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.

 

 

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)

 

 

Btissam ZOUBI | Plant Pathology | AgriExcellence Award

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Dr. Btissam ZOUBI | Plant Pathology | AgriExcellence Award

Dr of sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah University, Morocco

Dr. Zoubi Btissam is an expert in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Nematology, and Phytochemistry. She is known for her synthesis skills, rigor, organization, and teamwork abilities. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, and Plant Protection at the Faculty of Science Dhar El Mahraz of Fez and the Faculty of Sciences and Techniques of Marrakech. Her ongoing research focuses on phytoparasitic nematodes associated with citrus in Morocco, specifically Tylenchulus semipenetrans, encompassing their identification, distribution, and biological control. Dr. Btissam holds a Master’s degree in Biodiversity Management and Conservation and a Bachelor’s degree in Microbial Biotechnology, both from the Faculty of Science Dhar El Mahraz.

Profile:

Educational Background 🎓:

  • 2023-2024: PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, and Plant Protection, Faculty of Science Dhar El Mahraz of Fez (USMBA) – Faculty of Sciences and Techniques of Marrakech (UCA)
  • Since 2018-2019: Ongoing PhD in Biology on Phytoparasitic Nematodes Associated with Citrus in Morocco: Identification, Distribution, and Biological Control of Tylenchulus semipenetrans, Faculty of Science Dhar El Mahraz of Fez (USMBA) – Faculty of Sciences and Techniques of Marrakech (UCA)
  • 2016-2018: Master’s Degree in Biodiversity Management and Conservation, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques (FST), Fez
  • 2015-2016: Bachelor’s Degree in Microbial Biotechnology, Faculty of Science Dhar El Mahraz (FSDM), Fez
  • 2012-2013: Scientific Baccalaureate, Physical Sciences Option, Fez

Professional Experience 🏢:

  • June 2024: Jury member for end-of-studies projects in Agricultural Microbiology Techniques, Technological Activity in Microbiology, and Applied Microbiology
  • February – June 2018: Internship at the Laboratory of Physiopathology, Nutrition, and Environment, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Fez
  • July 2017: Internship at the Integrated Crop Production Research Unit (PIC), INRA-Agadir
  • August 2016: Internship at the Microbiology and Serology Laboratory, UHC Fez
  • August 2015: Internship at the Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, UHC Fez

Research Interests:

  • Phytoparasitic Nematodes 🪱
  • Mycorrhizae and Citrus 🍊
  • Microbial Biotechnology 🦠
  • Phytochemistry 🌿
  • Climate Change Adaptation 🌍

Publication Top Notes:

  • ZOUBI, B., et al. (2022). Occurrence and Geographic Distribution of Plant-Parasitic Nematodes Associated with Citrus in Morocco and Their Interaction with Soil Patterns. Life, 12(5), 637.
  • ZOUBI, B., et al. (2023). Eco-friendly management of the citrus nematode Tylenchulus semipenetrans using some aromatic and medicinal plants. Archives of Phytopathology and Plant Protection, 56(1), 66-86.
  • ZOUBI, B., et al. (2023). The efficiency of Thymus vulgaris against citrus nematode Tylenchulus semipenetrans. Journal of Analytical Sciences and Applied Biotechnology, 5(1), 5-1.
  • ZOUBI, B., et al. (2024). Citrus rootstocks vs. nematodes; A battle for resistance against Tylenchulus semipenetrans. Scientia Horticulturae, 331, 113115.
  • BENKEBBOURA, A., et al. (2023). Field inoculation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi improves quality attributes and yield of melon (Cucumis melo). Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology, 1-17.
  • AKACHOUD, O., et al. (2022). Mycorrhizal inoculation improves the quality and productivity of essential oil distilled from three aromatic and medicinal plants: Thymus satureioides, Thymus pallidus, and Lavandula dentata. Agronomy, 12(9), 2223.
  • EL BARNOSSI, A., et al. (2022). Tangerine, Pomegranate, and Banana Peels: A Promising Environmentally Friendly Bioorganic Fertilizers for Seed Germination and Cultivation of Pisum sativum L. Waste and Biomass Valorization, 13(8), 3611-3627.
  • Krif, G., et al. (2024). Potential Effects of Nematophagous Fungi Against Meloidogyne javanica Infection of Tomato Plants Under in vitro and in vivo Conditions. Journal of Crop Health, 1-11.

 

Zaryab Murad | Plant Growth | Young Scientist Award

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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.