Mona Soliman | Microbial Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Mona Soliman | Microbial Cell Biology | Best Researcher Awards

Prof. Mona Soliman , Taibah University , Saudi Arabia

Dr. Mona Hassan Soliman Hussein is an Associate Professor in the Biology Department, Plant Physiology Division at Taibah University, Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, and holds a permanent position as Associate Professor at Cairo University, Egypt. She was born on October 19, 1968, in Maadi, Cairo, Egypt. Dr. Hussein holds a PhD in Plant Physiology and Biochemistry from Cairo University, where she specializes in natural products and biochemical plant ecology. She has extensive experience in plant stress physiology, especially in the context of allelopathy, stress alleviation, and the use of bio-stimulants and natural compounds to improve plant productivity. Dr. Hussein has published numerous research papers and book chapters and is actively involved in academic committees and research initiatives in both Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Academic and Professional Background:
    • Dr. Soliman holds advanced degrees in Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, including a Master’s and a Ph.D. from Cairo University, with a focus on biochemical plant ecology and allelopathic potential in plants. This deep scientific expertise in both the theoretical and applied aspects of plant physiology makes her a leader in the field.
    • She has held prominent positions at various institutions, including Associate Professor in both Taibah University (KSA) and Cairo University (Egypt), along with leadership roles such as Dean of Academic Affairs and Head of Exam Committees.
  2. Research Contributions:
    • Dr. Soliman has an impressive research portfolio, with multiple journal articles and book chapters on plant stress tolerance, bio-stimulants, and allelopathy. Her studies focus on innovative methods to enhance crop resilience to abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and heavy metals.
    • She has contributed to high-impact journals, with a diverse research output that addresses both theoretical and applied scientific issues, offering practical solutions for crop improvement.
    • Her research also bridges plant physiology with practical agricultural solutions, such as improving soil quality with biochar or enhancing plant tolerance to environmental stresses, which is highly relevant for sustainable agriculture.
  3. Global Recognition:
    • Dr. Soliman has global recognition through her profiles on platforms like Google Scholar, Scopus, ResearchGate, and ORCID, reflecting her international presence and collaboration. Her research has been cited in multiple studies, suggesting that her work is widely acknowledged by peers in the field.
  4. Leadership and Collaboration:
    • As an active collaborator in multiple projects and publications, she has demonstrated strong leadership in managing interdisciplinary research teams, which is crucial for large-scale research initiatives. Her involvement in various academic committees further emphasizes her leadership skills.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Research Visibility and Outreach:
    • While Dr. Soliman has a strong publication record, increasing the visibility of her research through more frequent presentations at international conferences and public outreach could help in disseminating her findings to a broader audience, particularly in regions that face the environmental challenges her research addresses.
  2. Interdisciplinary Collaborations:
    • Although her research spans across plant physiology, biochemistry, and applied agricultural sciences, fostering collaborations with industries and organizations working on sustainable agricultural technologies could enhance the practical impact of her research.
  3. Innovation in Research Focus:
    • Dr. Soliman could consider expanding her research to include cutting-edge technologies such as genomics, plant-based biotechnology, or climate change mitigation strategies in agriculture, which would enhance the novelty and potential impact of her future studies.

Education:

Dr. Mona Hussein’s educational journey includes a Bachelor’s degree in Botany with Honors from Cairo University in 1990, followed by a Master’s degree in Biochemical Plant Ecology from Cairo University in 1996. Her Master’s thesis focused on “Allelopathic Potential of Lupinus termis Seeds,” exploring the use of secondary metabolites for enhancing plant production. She earned her PhD in Plant Physiology and Biochemistry in 2003, specializing in the allelopathic effects of sunflower residues on wild oat and wheat. Throughout her academic career, Dr. Hussein has excelled in her studies and research, contributing significantly to the fields of plant stress physiology and natural product chemistry.

Experience:

Dr. Mona Hussein has over three decades of experience in plant physiology and biochemistry. She began her career as an Instructor at Cairo University, later progressing to Assistant Lecturer, Lecturer, and Associate Professor. In addition to her work in Egypt, Dr. Hussein has served in leadership roles at Taibah University, Saudi Arabia, including Dean of Academic Affairs, Head of Exam Committees, and Coordinator of the Biology Department. Her administrative and academic leadership has contributed to enhancing educational programs and research. She has also coordinated academic guidance and played a key role in shaping scientific committees. Throughout her career, she has supervised graduate students, collaborated on numerous research projects, and made substantial contributions to improving agricultural practices and plant stress resilience.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Mona Hussein has received several recognitions for her academic and research contributions. She has been acknowledged for her pioneering work in plant physiology, particularly in understanding the biochemical and physiological responses of plants under abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity. Her research on using natural compounds like allelopathic agents has earned her acclaim in the scientific community. Dr. Hussein has been a recipient of multiple grants and awards for research excellence and innovation. Additionally, her leadership roles in academic committees, including the Faculty of Science and various universities in both Egypt and Saudi Arabia, have earned her recognition for outstanding service in higher education. Her contribution to environmental sustainability and agricultural development has also been celebrated by professional societies in the field of botany and plant physiology.

Research Focus:

Dr. Mona Hussein’s research focus lies at the intersection of plant physiology, biochemistry, and stress biology. Her work investigates the role of natural compounds and secondary metabolites in enhancing plant resilience to environmental stress, such as drought, salinity, and other abiotic factors. She is particularly interested in allelopathy and how plants produce chemicals that can control weeds and enhance crop productivity. Her research involves exploring bio-stimulants and natural products, including alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, and terpenoids, to improve plant growth and health. Dr. Hussein’s recent studies have explored the use of biochar and bio-stimulants in mitigating the effects of stress on crops like soybeans, sunflower, and wheat. She also investigates the molecular and biochemical pathways underlying stress tolerance, aiming to develop sustainable agricultural practices that promote higher crop yields in challenging environments.

Publications Top Notes:

  • “Investigating the combined effects of β-sitosterol and biochar on nutritional value and drought tolerance in Phaseolus vulgaris under drought stress” 🌱
  • “Eco-Physiological and Morphological Adaptive Mechanisms Induced by Melatonin and Hydrogen Sulphide Under Abiotic Stresses in Plants” 🌿
  • “Mentha piperita and Stressful Conditions” 🌿
  • “Role of Ascorbic Acid in Alleviating Abiotic Stress in Crop Plants” 🍊
  • “Integrated usage of Trichoderma harzianum and biochar to ameliorate salt stress on spinach plants” 🌱
  • “Exogenous Nitric Oxide Reinforces Photosynthetic Efficiency, Osmolyte, Mineral Uptake, Antioxidant, Expression of Stress-Responsive Genes and Ameliorates the Effects of Salinity Stress in Wheat” 🌾
  • “Alleviation of copper phytotoxicity by acetylsalicylic acid and nitric oxide application in mung bean” 🌿
  • “Exogenous Myo-Inositol Alleviates Salt Stress by Enhancing Antioxidants and Membrane Stability” 🍃

Conclusion:

Dr. Mona Hassan Soliman Hussein is undoubtedly a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. She has demonstrated consistent excellence in research, contributing valuable insights into plant physiology, biochemistry, and their applications in agricultural sciences. Her leadership roles, vast publication record, and international collaborations further strengthen her case for the award. With continued growth in research visibility and engagement in cutting-edge collaborations, Dr. Soliman could make even greater strides in the field of plant science and agricultural sustainability.

 

 

Irena Roterman | Protein structure | Best Researcher Award

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

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.

 

 

Ujjwal Layek | Pollination Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr Ujjwal Layek |  Pollination Biology |  Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at  Rampurhat College, India

Dr. Ujjwal Layek is an Assistant Professor of Botany at Rampurhat College, specializing in plant-pollinator interactions with a focus on palynology and pollination biology. He holds a Ph.D. from Vidyasagar University and completed his M.Sc. at Visva-Bharati, West Bengal. With over four years of experience in academia, he has authored over 35 publications in esteemed journals such as Elsevier, Springer Nature, and Wiley & Sons. Dr. Layek serves as an editorial board member for journals like Frontiers in Bee Science and Plant Science Today and has reviewed over 60 manuscripts for prestigious publishers including Nature Publishing Group and Elsevier. His research has garnered significant citation recognition, with an H-index of 13. Additionally, he has organized research conferences and workshops and actively collaborates with universities and industries. Dr. Layek’s contributions to research and development have earned him recognition, including an award, and he continues to make strides in advancing our understanding of plant reproductive biology and bee behavior.

Profile:

👨‍🎓 Education & Experience:

Dr. Ujjwal Layek holds a Ph.D. in Botany from Vidyasagar University, following his M.Sc. from Visva-Bharati. With over 4 years of teaching experience, he currently serves as an Assistant Professor at Rampurhat College, specializing in plant-pollinator interactions.

 

📚 Academic Contributions:

As an editorial board member of journals like Frontiers in Bee Science and Plant Science Today, he actively shapes scholarly discourse. Dr. Layek’s commitment to academia is evident through his review of over 60 manuscripts from renowned publishers like Nature Publishing Group and Springer Nature.

 

🌍 Global Impact:

Dr. Layek’s work has garnered international recognition, with publications indexed in SCI, SCIE, Scopus, and PubMed. He has engaged in over 20 collaborative research activities and presented his findings in numerous conferences worldwide.

🔬 Research Focus: Pollination Biology

 

Dr. Ujjwal Layek, an Assistant Professor of Botany at Rampurhat College, specializes in the intricate world of pollination biology. His research delves into the crucial interactions between plants and pollinators, exploring the mechanisms and dynamics that drive successful pollination processes.

🌼 Plant-Pollinator Interactions: Dr. Layek investigates the fascinating relationships between flowering plants and their pollinators, unraveling the complexities of co-evolution and mutual dependencies.

🔍 Palynology Expertise: With a focus on palynology, Dr. Layek examines pollen grains and their role in plant reproduction, shedding light on pollen morphology, dispersal, and its implications for pollination efficiency.

🐝 Foraging Behavior of Pollinators: Understanding the foraging behavior of pollinators like honeybees and stingless bees is central to Dr. Layek’s research. He explores how these vital agents navigate floral landscapes, impacting plant reproductive success.

🌍 Environmental Impact: Dr. Layek’s work not only advances scientific knowledge but also highlights the ecological importance of pollination in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem stability.

Citations:

Dr. Ujjwal Layek’s contributions to the field of pollination biology have garnered significant attention, with 360 citations overall and 339 citations since 2019. His work has established an h-index of 13 and an i10-index of 15, reflecting the impact and influence of his research in advancing our understanding of plant-pollinator interactions.

Publication Top Notes:

  • “Nesting characteristics, floral resources, and foraging activity of Trigona iridipennis Smith in Bankura district of West Bengal, India”
    • Authors: U Layek, P Karmakar
    • Published in: Insectes sociaux
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 41
  • “Impact of managed stingless bee and western honey bee colonies on native pollinators and yield of watermelon: A comparative study”
    • Authors: U Layek, A Kundu, S Bisui, P Karmakar
    • Published in: Annals of Agricultural Sciences
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 36
  • “Pollen foraging behaviour of honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) in southern West Bengal, India”
    • Authors: U Layek, SS Manna, P Karmakar
    • Published in: Palynology
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 25
  • “Honey sample collection methods influence pollen composition in determining true nectar-foraging bee plants”
    • Authors: U Layek, R Mondal, P Karmakar
    • Published in: Acta Botanica Brasilica
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 24
  • “Comparing the pollen forage pattern of stingless bee (Trigona iridipennis Smith) between rural and semi-urban areas of West Bengal, India”
    • Authors: S Bisui, U Layek, P Karmakar
    • Published in: Journal of Asia-Pacific Entomology
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 23
  • “Bee plants used as nectar sources by Apis florea Fabricius in Bankura and Paschim Medinipur districts, West Bengal”
    • Authors: U Layek, P Karmakar
    • Published in: Geophytology
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 21