Bramwel Wanjala | Crop health | Best Paper Award

Mr Bramwel Wanjala | Crop health | Best Paper Award

Senior Research Scientist at  Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization,  Kenya

Dr. Bramwel Waswa Wanjala is an experienced research scientist at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), where he has worked since 2003. His research primarily focuses on plant disease diagnostics and molecular biology, particularly the epidemiology and management of critical diseases like Maize Lethal Necrosis (MLN), Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSV), and sweetpotato viruses. Dr. Wanjala has contributed to the development of laboratory protocols, training of personnel, and the establishment of standardized practices that ensure high-quality lab operations. His work includes using genetic markers such as AFLP, SSRs, SRAP, and ISSR to analyze crop diversity, helping enhance agricultural resilience in Kenya. Dr. Wanjala’s expertise has made him a key figure in plant pathology research, where he supports capacity-building efforts and advances diagnostic methodologies for sustainable agriculture.

 

Publication Profile

Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. in Biotechnology (Expected Dec 2022) – Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
  • M.Sc. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (2013) – Egerton University

Expertise:

Dr. Wanjala is a skilled research scientist specializing in plant disease diagnostics, molecular biology, and crop germplasm management. His work has focused on critical plant diseases in Kenya, including Maize Lethal Necrosis (MLN) and various sweetpotato viruses, employing advanced techniques like ELISA, PCR, Q-PCR, and LAMP. At the International Potato Center (CIP), he led sweetpotato virus diagnostics and developed innovative technologies for rapid vine multiplication, like sandponics, significantly aiding the sweetpotato seed system in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Key Contributions and Achievements:

  • Capacity Building: Trained numerous researchers and technical staff in virus diagnostics across East and Central Africa, including for KEPHIS.
  • Diagnostic Innovations: Validated a ClonDiag Microarray for sweetpotato virus detection, reducing testing time from 6 months to 2 days.
  • MLN Lab Establishment: Set up a diagnostic lab for MLN and trained stakeholders in disease identification and management.
  • Prebasic Seed Production: Helped establish a sustainable sweetpotato seed production system with KEPHIS, distributing over 150,000 vines to farmers.

Professional Affiliations:

  • International Society for Tropical Root Crops (African Branch)
  • African Biotechnology Stakeholders Forum (ABSF)
  • Trustee and Director of Economic Empowerment, JEDIMU Trust

Publication Top Notes

  • “Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification assays for on-site detection of the main sweetpotato infecting viruses”
  • “Comparative analysis for producing sweetpotato pre-basic seed using sandponics and conventional systems”
  • “Improving rapid multiplication of sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas L. (Lam) pre-basic seed using sandponics technology in East Africa”
  • “Storage root yield of sweetpotato as influenced by sweetpotato leaf curl virus and its interaction with sweetpotato feathery mottle virus and Sweetpotato chlorotic stunt virus in Kenya”
  • “Yield potential of sandponically produced sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) pre-basic seed for selected genotypes”

 

Ali Reza Tavakoli | Crop Management | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr  Ali Reza Tavakoli |  Crop Management |  Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Agricultural Engineering Research Institute (AERI), Agricultural research, education and Extension organization (AREEO), Iran

Dr. Ali Reza Tavakoli is an esteemed agricultural engineer specializing in water productivity and irrigation management. With a PhD from the University of Tehran, his research focuses on improving water efficiency in agriculture through innovative irrigation techniques and sustainable practices. He holds the position of Associate Professor at the Agricultural Engineering Research Institute and has played a pivotal role in various national projects aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and resource management.

Publication Profile

Education:

  • PhD in Irrigation and Reclamation Engineering
    University of Tehran, Paradise of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Karaj, Iran (2010)
    Thesis Title: Improving water productivity through integrated management of limited irrigation and advanced agricultural practices in rainfed cereal cultivation.
  • MSc in Irrigation and Reclamation Engineering
    University of Tehran, Paradise of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Karaj, Iran (1996)
    Research Title: Investigating the effects of deficit irrigation on sugar beet and determining production functions.
  • BSc in Irrigation Engineering
    Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran (1994)

Research Fields:

  • Water management and deficit irrigation
  • Single and supplemental irrigation
  • Water harvesting systems
  • Evaporation control management
  • Production functions and their software
  • Irrigation systems management
  • Analysis of macro projects and national policies
  • Cropping patterns and water productivity

Professional Experience:

  • Associate Professor & Senior Researcher (Grade 32) promoting water productivity (2017 – Present)
  • Head of the Secretariat of the National Cropping Pattern (AREEO, since 2021)
  • Director of Studies and Evaluation at the Agricultural Education and Extension Institute
  • Senior Researcher at the Agricultural Education and Promotion Research Organization (since 2016)
  • Advisor to the Deputy Minister in Horticulture Affairs of Jihad e Agriculture (since 2016)
  • Member of National Policy Councils for Urmia Lake and Khuzestan region revitalization
  • Head of Technical and Engineering Research at Shahrood Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center
  • Extensive involvement in national and international agricultural projects, including collaborations with ICARDA.

Academic Achievements:

  • Citations: 1,168 (671 since 2019)
  • h-index: 16 (12 since 2019)
  • i10-index: 30 (21 since 2019)

Publication Top Notes

  1. The role of supplemental irrigation and nitrogen in producing bread wheat in the highlands of Iran
    Authors: AR Tavakoli, TY Oweis
    Journal: Agricultural Water Management
    Volume: 65, Issue: 3, Pages: 225-236, Year: 2004
    Citations: 197
  2. Optimal applied water and nitrogen for winter wheat under variable seasonal rainfall and planning scenarios for consequent crops in a semi-arid region
    Authors: AR Sepaskhah, A Azizian, AR Tavakoli
    Journal: Agricultural Water Management
    Volume: 84, Issues: 1-2, Pages: 113-122, Year: 2006
    Citations: 73
  3. Evaluation of the AquaCrop model for barley production under deficit irrigation and rainfed condition in Iran
    Authors: AR Tavakoli, MM Moghadam, AR Sepaskhah
    Journal: Agricultural Water Management
    Volume: 161, Pages: 136-146, Year: 2015
    Citations: 70
  4. Effects of Fumaria parviflora L on uremic pruritus in hemodialysis patients: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
    Authors: R Akrami, MH Hashempur, A Tavakoli, M Nimrouzi, M Sayadi, M Roodaki, …
    Journal: Jundishapur Journal of Natural Pharmaceutical Products
    Volume: 12, Issue: 3, Article: e39744, Year: 2016
    Citations: 46
  5. Improving rainwater productivity with supplemental irrigation in the upper Karkheh River Basin of Iran
    Authors: AR Tavakoli, T Oweis, S Ashrafi, H Asadi, H Siadat, A Liaghat
    Publisher: International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA)
    Year: 2010
    Citations: 39
  6. Effects of seed priming on seed vigor and grain yield of barley (Hordeum vulgare L. cv. Abidar) in rainfed conditions
    Authors: B Abd Alrahmani, GK Ghasemi, M Valizadeh, V Feiziasl, AR Tavakoli
    Journal: Iranian Journal of Crop Sciences
    Volume: 11, Issue: 444, Pages: 337-352, Year: 2010
    Citations: 30
  7. Robotic locomotion of three generations of a family tree of dynamical systems. Part II: Impulsive control of gait patterns
    Authors: A Tavakoli, Y Hurmuzlu
    Journal: Nonlinear Dynamics
    Volume: 73, Pages: 1991-2012, Year: 2013
    Citations: 29
  8. Robotic locomotion of three generations of a family tree of dynamical systems. Part I: Passive gait patterns
    Authors: A Tavakoli, Y Hurmuzlu
    Journal: Nonlinear Dynamics
    Volume: 73, Pages: 1969-1989, Year: 2013
    Citations: 25
  9. Principles and applications of deficit irrigation
    Authors: AR Sepaskhah, AR Tavakoli, SF Mousavi
    Publisher: Iranian National Committee on Irrigation and Drainage (IRNCID), Tehran
    Year: 2000
    Citations: 25
  10. Using internal sinusoidal fins and phase change material for performance enhancement of thermal energy storage systems: Heat transfer and entropy generation analyses
    Authors: A Tavakoli, M Farzaneh-Gord, A Ebrahimi-Moghadam
    Journal: Renewable Energy
    Volume: 205, Pages: 222-237, Year: 2023
    Citations: 23
  11. Urinary tract infection with Candida glabrata in a patient with spinal cord injury
    Authors: M Rahimkhani, M Saberian, A Mordadi, S Varmazyar, A Tavakoli
    Journal: Acta Medica Iranica
    Pages: 516-517, Year: 2015
    Citations: 21
  12. Case series and review of glandular odontogenic cyst with emphasis on treatment modalities
    Authors: MM Roochi, I Tavakoli, FM Ghazi, A Tavakoli
    Journal: Journal of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery
    Volume: 43, Issue: 6, Pages: 746-750, Year: 2015
    Citations: 20
  13. Collision of two mass baton with massive external surfaces
    Authors: A Tavakoli, M Gharib, Y Hurmuzlu
    Year: 2012
    Citations: 20
  14. The role of limited irrigation and advanced management on improving water productivity of rainfed wheat at semi-cold region of upper Karkheh River Basin, Iran
    Authors: AR Tavakoli, A Liaghat, T Oweis, A Alizadeh
    Journal: International Journal of Agricultural Crop Sciences
    Volume: 4, Issue: 14, Pages: 939-948, Year: 2012
    Citations: 17
  15. Supplemental irrigation in Iran: Increasing and stabilizing wheat yield in rainfed highlands
    Authors: AR Tavakoli, T Oweis, F Ferri, A Haghighati, V Belson, M Pala, H Siadat, …
    Publisher: ICARDA
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 17
  16. Approach of Persian medicine to health and disease
    Authors: V Tafazoli, A Tavakoli, M Mosaffa-Jahromi, K Cooley, M Pasalar
    Journal: Advances in Integrative Medicine
    Volume: 9, Issue: 1, Pages: 3-8, Year: 2022
    Citations: 16
  17. Physics-based modelling and data-driven optimisation of a latent heat thermal energy storage system with corrugated fins
    Authors: A Tavakoli, J Hashemi, M Najafian, A Ebrahimi
    Journal: Renewable Energy
    Volume: 217, Article: 119200, Year: 2023
    Citations: 15
  18. Water allocation optimization for supplementary irrigation in rainfed lands to increase total income: Case study in the upstream Karkheh River Basin
    Authors: H Ramezani Etedali, A Liaghat, M Parsinejad, AR Tavakkoli, …
    Journal: Irrigation and Drainage
    Volume: 62, Issue: 1, Pages: 74-83, Year: 2013
    Citations: 15
  19. Evaluation of urinary interleukin-8 levels in patients with spinal cord injury
    Authors: M Rahimkhani, A Mordadi, S Varmazyar, A Tavakoli
    Journal: Recent Patents on Anti-Infective Drug Discovery
    Volume: 9, Issue: 2, Pages: 144-149, Year: 2014
    Citations: 14
  20. Gravity powered locomotion and active control of two simple systems
    Authors: A Tavakoli, Y Hurmuzlu
    Conference: Dynamic Systems and Control Conference
    Pages: 379-386, Year: 2009
    Citations: 13

 

 

Amira Ibrahim | Crop Evolution | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr Amira Ibrahim |  Crop Evolution |  Best Researcher Award

Faculty of Science Arish University at  Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of science, Arish University, Egypt

Dr. Amira Abdallah Ibrahim Ahmed is an Assistant Professor of Plant Genetics in the Botany Department at Arish University, Egypt. Born on July 7, 1985, in Aga, Dakahlia, she has dedicated her career to advancing research in plant genetics. As a single Muslim woman, Dr. Ahmed embraces her identity while contributing to the scientific community. Her work focuses on understanding the genetic basis of plant traits, which is crucial for agricultural improvement and sustainability.

Publication Profile

Education:

  1. B.Sc. in Botany-Chemistry (2006), Faculty of Science, Mansoura University.
  2. M.Sc. in Basic Science (Botany) – Genetics and Plant Cytology (2012), Faculty of Science, Mansoura University.
  3. Ph.D. in Basic Science (Botany) – Genetics and Plant Cytology (2018), Faculty of Science, Mansoura University.

Research Interests:

Dr. Amira specializes in plant genetics and cytology, with a particular focus on biocontrol agents, phytochemical analysis, molecular markers, plant stress responses, and crop improvement under environmental stresses.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Biochemical Characterization and Disease Control Efficacy of Pleurotus eryngii-Derived Chitosan
    An In Vivo Study against Monilinia laxa, the Causal Agent of Plum Brown Rot
    Published: 2024-09-17
    DOI: 10.3390/plants13182598
    Contributors: Ippolito Camele, Amira A. Mohamed, Amira A. Ibrahim, Hazem S. Elshafie
  2. Analysis of Genetic Diversity, Population Structure, and Phylogenetic Relationships of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Cultivars Using Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) Markers
    Published: 2024-06
    DOI: 10.1007/s10722-023-01789-0
    Contributors: Khaled F. M. Salem et al. (including Amira A. Ibrahim)
  3. Association Study Between Some Cultivated Species and Their Wild Relatives from Apiaceae, Asteraceae, and Brassicaceae Families Based on Molecular and DNA Barcoding in Egypt
    Published: 2024-03
    DOI: 10.1007/s10722-023-01681-x
    Contributors: Nerveen M. Essa, Amira A. Ibrahim, Magda I. Soliman
  4. Characterization and Comparative Genomic Analyses of Complete Chloroplast Genome on Trema orientalis L.
    Published: 2024-03
    DOI: 10.1007/s10722-023-01678-6
    Contributors: Amira A. Ibrahim et al.

 

Kovács Flórián | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Mr Kovács Flórián |  Agronomy |  Best Researcher Award

Florian Kovac is a dedicated researcher and PhD student at the MATE Doctoral School of Horticultural Sciences, specializing in plant protection and nutrient management. Born in 1989 and based in Szeged, Hungary, Florian earned his Master of Science in Plant Protection from Budapesti Corvinus University in 2014, graduating summa cum laude, following his Bachelor’s degree in Horticultural Engineering from the same institution in 2012. With experience as an individual entrepreneur in nutrient management and plant protection consultancy, he has contributed to the development of Field Calc software. Fluent in Serbian and English, Florian possesses strong skills in statistical analysis and programming, applying advanced methodologies in his research. His work includes publishing multiple manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals, focusing on innovative approaches to horticultural nitrogen fertilization and soil biology.

Publication profile:

Education:

  • MSc in Plant Protection
    Budapesti Corvinus University (2012-2014)
    Graduated summa cum laude
  • BSc in Horticultural Engineering
    Budapesti Corvinus University (2008-2012)

Work Experience:

  • PhD Student
    MATE – Doctoral School of Horticultural Sciences (2022 – Present)
  • Teaching Assistant
    Szegedi Tudományegyetem (2024 – Present)
  • Individual Entrepreneur
    Nutrient management and plant protection consultancy, Field Calc software developer (2015 – 2022)

Research Focus:

Florian’s research emphasizes alternative approaches to horticultural nitrogen fertilization, soil biology, and the efficacy of innovative mulching techniques. His work includes the comprehensive statistical analysis of agricultural data and the exploration of plant protection methodologies.

Scientific Publications:

Florian has authored and co-authored several manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals, including:

  • “Alternative Approaches to Horticultural Nitrogen Fertilisation in Sandy Soils” (2023)
  • “The Effect of Wool Mulch on Plant Development in the Context of the Physical and Biological Conditions in Soil” (2023)
  • “How Different Mulch Materials Regulate Soil Moisture and Microbiological Activity?” (2022)

Citations:

Citations:

  • Total citations: 232
  • Citations since 2019: 97

h-index:

  • Overall h-index: 7
  • h-index since 2019: 7

i10-index:

  • Overall i10-index: 5
  • i10-index since 2019: 3

 

Publication Top Notes:

  1. A class of expandable polyhedral structures
    F Kovács, T Tarnai, PW Fowler, SD Guest
    International Journal of Solids and Structures, 41(3-4), 1119-1137 (2004)
    Citations: 55
  2. Double–link expandohedra: a mechanical model for expansion of a virus
    F Kovács, T Tarnai, SD Guest, PW Fowler
    Proceedings of the Royal Society of London. Series A: Mathematical, Physical … (2004)
    Citations: 54
  3. Balancing polyhedra
    G Domokos, F Kovács, Z Lángi, K Regős, PT Varga
    arXiv preprint arXiv:1810.05382 (2018)
    Citations: 17
  4. Wrapping the cube and other polyhedra
    T Tarnai, F Kovács, PW Fowler, SD Guest
    Proceedings of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering … (2012)
    Citations: 17
  5. Symmetry-adapted mobility and stress analysis of spherical and polyhedral generalised bar-and-joint structures
    F Kovács, T Tarnai
    PhD dissertation submitted to the BME (2004)
    Citations: 11
  6. Construction of a mechanical model for the expansion of a virus
    SD Guest, F Kovács, T Tarnai, PW Fowler
    Proc. IASS-2004, 20-24 (2004)
    Citations: 8
  7. An expandable dodecahedron
    F Kovács, T Tarnai
    Hyper Space/高次元科学会 編, 10(1), 13-20 (2001)
    Citations: 8
  8. The effect of wool mulch on plant development in the context of the physical and biological conditions in soil
    K Juhos, E Papdi, F Kovács, VP Vasileiadis, A Veres
    Plants, 12(3), 684 (2023)
    Citations: 7
  9. Equiauxetic hinged Archimedean tilings
    T Tarnai, PW Fowler, SD Guest, F Kovács
    Symmetry, 14(2), 232 (2022)
    Citations: 7
  10. Mono-unstable polyhedra with point masses have at least 8 vertices
    S Bozóki, G Domokos, F Kovács, K Regős
    International Journal of Solids and Structures, 234, 111276 (2022)
    Citations: 7
  11. Number and twistedness of strands in weavings on regular convex polyhedra
    F Kovács
    Proceedings of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering … (2014)
    Citations: 6
  12. Foldable bar structures on a sphere
    F Kovács
    IUTAM-IASS Symposium on Deployable Structures: Theory and Applications (2000)
    Citations: 6
  13. Two-dimensional analysis of bar-and-joint assemblies on a sphere: equilibrium, compatibility and stiffness
    F Kovács, T Tarnai
    International Journal of Solids and Structures, 46(6), 1317-1325 (2009)
    Citations: 5
  14. Movable pairs of regular polyhedra
    F Kovács, FI Hegedűs, T Tarnai
    Structural Morphology towards the New Millennium, Internat. Colloq. Univ … (1997)
    Citations: 5
  15. Extended truss theory with simplex constraints
    F Kovács
    International Journal of Solids and Structures, 48(3-4), 472-482 (2011)
    Citations: 4
  16. Mobility and stress analysis of highly symmetric generalized bar-and-joint structures
    F Kovács
    Journal of Computational and Applied Mechanics, 5(1), 65-78 (2004)
    Citations: 4
  17. Conway’s spiral and a discrete gömböc with 21 point masses
    G Domokos, F Kovács
    The American Mathematical Monthly, 130(9), 795-807 (2023)
    Citations: 3
  18. How Different Mulch Materials Regulate Soil Moisture and Microbiological Activity?
    E Papdi, A Veres, F Kovács, K Juhos
    Journal of Central European Green Innovation, 10(Suppl), 26-38 (2022)
    Citations: 2
  19. Optimal packages: binding regular polyhedra
    F Kovács
    [Publication details missing] (2014)
    Citations: 2
  20. Occurrence of production diseases in large dairy herds in Hungary
    E Brydl, F Kovács, P Ribiczey, L Konda, G Nagy
    7th International Congress on Production Disease in Farm Animals, Cornell … (1989)
    Citations: 2

 

 

Arti Goel | Agriculture Nanotechnology | Women Researcher Award

Dr Arti Goel |  Agriculture Nanotechnology |  Women Researcher Award

Assistant Professor III at  Amity University, Noida,  India

Dr. Arti Goel is an Assistant Professor at the Amity Institute of Microbial Biotechnology since May 2011. She has expertise in microbial biotechnology and has contributed significantly to the field through research, teaching, and editorial roles. Dr. Goel has received various awards for her research contributions and has guided several Ph.D. candidates.

Publication profile:

Education:

  • Ph.D. in Microbiology, Mohan Lal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, India (2008)
  • M.Sc. in Botany, Mohan Lal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, India (2003, 70.3%)
  • B.Sc. in Chemistry, Botany, and Environmental Biology, Mohan Lal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, India (2001, 72.6%)

Professional Experience:

Dr. Goel is currently an Assistant Professor at the Amity Institute of Microbial Biotechnology, where she has been since May 2011. She has served as a Program Coordinator for the Ph.D. in Microbial Biotechnology and is a member of several committees, including the DRC, SRC, and the Institutional Area Advisory Board. Previously, she worked as a Research Associate on a World Bank-funded project at CAZRI, Jodhpur, and has lectured at various universities.

Research Interests:

Her research primarily focuses on the biocontrol of fungal diseases through innovative approaches, including the use of biosynthesized metal nanoparticles.

Awards and Recognitions:

Dr. Goel has received multiple accolades, including the Best Researcher Award 2020 from VD Good International Scientists Awards, the International Teaching and Research Excellence Award in Nanobiotechnology 2021, and the Women Researcher Award 2022 from INSO Awards. She has served as an editor and regional editor for various scientific journals and has actively participated in international conferences.

Research Impact:

  • Citations: 599 (389 since 2019)
  • h-index: 12 (11 since 2019)
  • i10-index: 14 (11 since 2019)

 

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Effect of phosphate solubilizing bacteria on the germination of Cicer arietinum seeds and seedling growth
    K Sharma, G Dak, A Agrawal, M Bhatnagar, R Sharma
    Journal of Herbal Medicine and Toxicology, 1 (1), 61-63, 2007.
    Citations: 192
  2. ZnO nanoparticles induced synthesis of polysaccharides and phosphatases by Aspergillus fungi
    JC Tarafdar, A Agrawal, R Raliya, P Kumar, U Burman, RK Kaul
    Advanced Science, Engineering and Medicine, 4 (4), 324-328, 2012.
    Citations: 102
  3. Magnesium and iron nanoparticles production using microorganisms and various salts
    RK Kaul, P Kumar, U Burman, P Joshi, A Agrawal, R Raliya, JC Tarafdar
    Materials Science-Poland, 30, 254-258, 2012.
    Citations: 93
  4. Biocontrol potential of mycogenic copper oxide nanoparticles against Alternaria brassicae
    S Gaba, AK Rai, A Varma, R Prasad, A Goel
    Frontiers in Chemistry, 10, 966396, 2022.
    Citations: 22
  5. Mechanistic Insight of the Antifungal Potential of Green Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles against Alternaria brassicae
    S Dhiman, A Varma, R Prasad, A Goel
    Journal of Nanomaterials, 2022 (1), 7138843, 2022.
    Citations: 17
  6. Phytofabricated zinc oxide nanoparticles as a nanofungicide for management of Alternaria blight of Brassica
    S Dhiman, S Singh, A Varma, A Goel
    Biometals, 34, 1275-1293, 2021.
    Citations: 17
  7. Microbial enzymes with special reference to α-amylase
    TK Sahni, A Goel
    Bio Evol, 2, 19-25, 2015.
    Citations: 17
  8. Agricultural applications of nanotechnology
    A Goel
    J Biol Chem Res, 32, 260-266, 2015.
    Citations: 16
  9. Effect of Euphorbia pulcherrima leaf and inflorescence extract on various cytomorphological parameters of Aspergillus fumigatus
    A Goel, K Sharma
    International Journal of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, 7 (9), 859-862, 2013.
    Citations: 16
  10. Plant extracts and phytochemicals as herbal medicines and antimicrobials
    A Goel, K Sharma
    International Journal of Biological and Medical Research, 5 (1), 3940-3946, 2014.
    Citations: 14
  11. Anticancerous potential of plant extracts and phytochemicals
    A Goel
    J. Biol. Chem. Research, 30 (2), 537-558, 2013.
    Citations: 14
  12. Deciphering the fertilizing and disease suppression potential of phytofabricated zinc oxide nanoparticles on Brassica juncea
    S Dhiman, A Varma, M Rao, R Prasad, A Goel
    Environmental Research, 231, 116276, 2023.
    Citations: 13
  13. Protective and curative activity of biogenic copper oxide nanoparticles against Alternaria blight disease in oilseed crops: a review
    S Gaba, A Varma, A Goel
    Journal of Plant Diseases and Protection, 129 (2), 215-229, 2022.
    Citations: 12
  14. Role of bacterial endophytes in the promotion of plant growth
    I Kohli, S Mohapatra, P Kumar, A Goel, A Varma, NC Joshi
    Bacterial Endophytes for Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Protection, 2022.
    Citations: 11
  15. Leveraging of mycogenic copper oxide nanostructures for disease management of Alternaria blight of Brassica juncea
    S Gaba, L Prasad, A Varma, AK Rai, R Prasad, A Goel
    Green Processing and Synthesis, 12 (1), 20230015, 2023.
    Citations: 8
  16. Trichoderma Mediated Metal Chelator and Its Role in Solanum melongena Growth Under Heavy Metals
    G Yadav, N Sharma, A Goel, A Varma, A Mishra, SL Kothari
    Journal of Plant Growth Regulation, 43 (1), 178-200, 2024.
    Citations: 6
  17. Exploring the Impact of Bioformulated Copper Oxide Nanoparticles on Cytomorphology of Alternaria brassicicola
    S Gaba, A Varma, R Prasad, A Goel
    Current Microbiology, 79 (8), 244, 2022.
    Citations: 6
  18. Bio-nanosensors: Synthesis and Their Substantial Role in Agriculture
    S Dhiman, S Gaba, A Varma, A Goel
    Plant-Microbes-Engineered Nano-particles (PM-ENPs) Nexus in Agro-Ecosystems, 2021.
    Citations: 6
  19. Biofabricated nanoscale ZnO and their prospective in disease suppression and crop growth of Brassica species: A review
    S Dhiman, A Varma, A Goel
    Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology, 37, 102171, 2021.
    Citations: 3
  20. Impact of nanotechnology on environment
    A Goel
    Proceedings of the National Conference on Innovative Research in Agricultural, Food Sciences, Forestry, Horticulture, Aquaculture, and Animal Husbandry, 2015.
    Citations: 3

 

B P Chandra | Crop Yield | Young Scientist Award

Assist Prof Dr B P  Chandra | Crop Yield |  Young Scientist Award

Assistant professor at Sri Satya Sai Institute of Higher learning,  India

Dr. B. Praphulla Chandra is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning in Prasanthi Nilayam, India. Born on August 23, 1990, he is an accomplished researcher in the field of atmospheric chemistry. His research interests encompass the emissions and chemistry of volatile organic compounds, sub-micron organic aerosols, analytical atmospheric chemistry, and multiphase chemistry. With a strong commitment to advancing the understanding of atmospheric processes, Dr. Chandra contributes significantly to the academic community through his teaching and research endeavors.

Publication profile:

 

🎓 Educational Qualifications:

  • B.Sc. in Chemistry (2007–2010)
    Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, India (CGPA: 4.77/5)
  • M.Sc. in Chemistry (2010-2012)
    Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, India (CGPA: 5.0/5, Gold Medal)
  • Ph.D. in Analytical and Atmospheric Chemistry (2013-2018)
    Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Mohali, India (CGPA: 10.0/10)
  • Post-Doctoral Research (2018-2020)
    University of Washington, Seattle, USA

🛠️ Technical Skills:

  • Instrument Proficiency:
    • Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS-QQQ & LC-MS QTof)
    • Microwave-assisted Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (MP-AES)
    • Thermal Desorption Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (TD-GC-MS)
    • Proton Transfer Reaction Mass Spectrometry (PTR-MS)
    • Cavity Ring-down Spectroscopy (CRDS)
    • NOx chemiluminescence and infrared CO analyzers
  • Sampling and Analysis:
    • Measurement of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in various air samples
    • Gravimetric analysis of suspended particulate matter

🏆 Awards and Distinctions:

  • Gold Medal for distinction in M.Sc. Chemistry (2012)
  • GATE (All India Rank-126) in Chemistry (2012)
  • UGC/CSIR-JRF (All India Rank-70) in Chemical Sciences (2011)
  • Various international travel grants for conferences and training

🔍 Research Experience:

  • Research Associate: University of Washington, Bothell, USA (2018-2020)
  • Doctoral Scholar: Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Mohali (2013-2018)
  • Research Assistant: IISER Mohali (2012)
  • Master’s Thesis: Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (2010-2012)

Citations Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 778
  • Citations Since 2019: 668
  • h-index: 12
  • h-index Since 2019: 12
  • i10-index: 13
  • i10-index Since 2019: 13

 

Publication Top Notes:

  • Winter fog experiment over the Indo-Gangetic plains of India
    SD Ghude, GS Bhat, T Prabhakaran, RK Jenamani, DM Chate, PD Safai, …
    Current Science, 2017, pp. 767-784.
    Citations: 121
  • Assessment of crop yield losses in Punjab and Haryana using 2 years of continuous in situ ozone measurements
    B Sinha, K Singh Sangwan, Y Maurya, V Kumar, C Sarkar, BP Chandra, …
    Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics, 15(16), 9555-9576, 2015.
    Citations: 115
  • Contribution of post-harvest agricultural paddy residue fires in the NW Indo-Gangetic Plain to ambient carcinogenic benzenoids, toxic isocyanic acid and carbon monoxide
    BP Chandra, V Sinha
    Environment International, 88, 187-197, 2016.
    Citations: 94
  • Gridded Emissions of CO, NOx, SO2, CO2, NH3, HCl, CH4, PM2.5, PM10, BC, and NMVOC from Open Municipal Waste Burning in India
    G Sharma, B Sinha, Pallavi, H Hakkim, BP Chandra, A Kumar, V Sinha
    Environmental Science & Technology, 53(9), 4765-4774, 2019.
    Citations: 84
  • Large unexplained suite of chemically reactive compounds present in ambient air due to biomass fires
    V Kumar, BP Chandra, V Sinha
    Scientific Reports, 8(1), 626, 2018.
    Citations: 76
  • Limitation of the use of the absorption angstrom exponent for source apportionment of equivalent black carbon: a case study from the North West Indo-Gangetic Plain
    S Garg, BP Chandra, V Sinha, R Sarda-Esteve, V Gros, B Sinha
    Environmental Science & Technology, 50(2), 814-824, 2016.
    Citations: 75
  • Quantifying the contribution of long-range transport to particulate matter (PM) mass loadings at a suburban site in the north-western Indo-Gangetic Plain (NW-IGP)
    H Pawar, S Garg, V Kumar, H Sachan, R Arya, C Sarkar, BP Chandra, …
    Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics, 15(16), 9501-9520, 2015.
    Citations: 71
  • Volatile organic compound measurements point to fog-induced biomass burning feedback to air quality in the megacity of Delhi
    H Hakkim, V Sinha, BP Chandra, A Kumar, AK Mishra, B Sinha, G Sharma, …
    Science of the Total Environment, 689, 295-304, 2019.
    Citations: 36
  • Storage stability studies and field application of low-cost glass flasks for analyses of thirteen ambient VOCs using proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry
    BP Chandra, V Sinha, H Hakkim, B Sinha
    International Journal of Mass Spectrometry, 419, 11-19, 2017.
    Citations: 32
  • Odd–even traffic rule implementation during winter 2016 in Delhi did not reduce traffic emissions of VOCs, carbon dioxide, methane and carbon monoxide
    BP Chandra, V Sinha, H Hakkim, A Kumar, H Pawar, AK Mishra, …
    Current Science, 114(6), 1318-1325, 2018.
    Citations: 27
  • Highly efficient and simultaneous remediation of heavy metal ions (Pb (II), Hg (II), As (V), As (III) and Cr (VI)) from water using Ce intercalated and ceria decorated titanate
    A Biswas, BP Chandra, C Prathibha
    Applied Surface Science, 612, 155841, 2023.
    Citations: 13
  • Optimization of a Method for the Detection of Biomass-Burning Relevant VOCs in Urban Areas using Thermal Desorption Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry
    BP Chandra, CD McClure, J Mulligan, DA Jaffe
    Atmosphere, 11(3), 276, 2020.
    Citations: 12
  • The Effect of Functional Group Polarity in Palladium Immobilized Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Catalysis
    BP Chandra, Z Wu, SA Ntim, GN Rao, S Mitra
    Applied Sciences, 8, 1511, 2018.
    Citations: 10
  • Optimized LC-MS/MS method for simultaneous determination of endocrine disruptors and PAHs bound to PM2.5: Sources and health risk in Indo-Gangetic Plain
    DP Patnana, BP Chandra, P Chaudhary, B Sinha, V Sinha
    Atmospheric Environment, 290, 119363, 2022.
    Citations: 7
  • Activation of neem flower with CTAB for irreversible adsorption of methyl orange—isotherm, kinetics, and thermodynamics studies
    PJ Kumar, PS Raghavan, S Induja, BP Chandra, NK Kolli, …
    Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery, 14(16), 19693-19703, 2024.
    Citations: 4
  • Determination of Nylon 66 Microplastics in the Inhalable Fraction of Particulate Matter Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS)
    DP Patnana, P Tripathi, DA Jaffe, BP Chandra
    Analytical Letters, 57(14), 2343-2351, 2024.
    Citations: 1
  • Carcinogenicity and non-carcinogenicity health risks due to PM2.5 bound trace metals at a suburban site in Northwest Indo-Gangetic Plain
    DP Patnana, BP Chandra
    International Journal of Environmental Health Research, 1-12, 2024.
  • Determination of Airborne Microplastics using LC-MS/MS
    B Praphulla Chandra, D Prasad Patnana, P Tripathi
    EGU General Assembly Conference Abstracts, 2744, 2024.
  • Quantification of polyethylene terephthalate microplastics bound to PM2.5 using LC-MS/MS
    DP Patnana, BP Chandra
    AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts, 2023 (2625), A33H-2625.

 

Jalaja Naravula | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Dr Jalaja Naravula | Plant Biotechnology |  Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at  Vignan Foundation for Science Technology and Research, India

Dr. Jalaja N is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biotechnology at VFSTR Deemed to be University, Vadlamudi, Guntur, India. With a strong commitment to academic excellence and research, she has contributed significantly to the field of biotechnology. Her areas of expertise include [insert specific areas of research or interest]. Dr. Jalaja has [mention any notable achievements, awards, or publications] and actively engages in teaching and mentoring students in the field.

Publication profile:

Educational Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Genetics: International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) – Osmania University, Hyderabad (2011)
  • M.Sc. in Biotechnology: Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh (2005)
  • B.Sc. in Biochemistry, Microbiology, Chemistry: Sree Vidyanikethan, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh (2003)
  • Intermediate (10+2): Ratnam Junior College, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh (2000)
  • SSC (10th): Girvani Vidyalaya, Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh (1998)

Research Experience:

  • Research Associate, School of Life Science, University of Hyderabad
    • DBT funded project on Molecular Basis of Groundnut PGPR Interactions (Apr 2013 – Apr 2014).
  • Scientist, NIC, Nagarjuna Fertilizers and Chemicals Limited, Hyderabad
    • Development of transgenic for stem borer resistance in Sweet Sorghum (Apr 2011 – Mar 2013).

Employment Details:

  • Associate Professor, Department of Biotechnology, VFSTR, Guntur (June 2014 – Present)
    • Joined as Assistant Professor in 2014; promoted to Associate Professor in 2019.
  • Administrative Experience:
    • Deputy Chief Warden, Priyadarsini Girls Hostel (2016-2019)
    • Associate Dean of Student Affairs, Office of Student Affairs (2016-2019)
    • Head, Student Counseling Center (2018-2022)
  • Academic Areas:
    • Genetics, Molecular Genetics, Nanobiotechnology, Crop Production and Process Engineering, Food Storage and Processing, Molecular Phylogeny, Evolutionary Ecology and Biology, Plant Tissue Culture, Plant Transgenics, DNA Barcoding, Next Generation Sequencing, Natural Product Technology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology Lab, Biochemistry Lab, Molecular Biology Lab, PTC Lab, rDNA Technology (2014-2019).

Academic Honors & Fellowships:

  • Fellowships:
    • Associate Fellow, AP Akademi of Science
    • Asia PGPR Life Member and Associate Member
  • Training Programs:
    • Molecular Markers in Plant Genetics, TILLING Technique, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (Jan – Mar 2008)
  • Research Fellowships:
    • Senior Research Fellowship, University Grants Commission (2010-2011)
    • Junior Research Fellowship, University Grants Commission (2008-2010)
  • Project Assistant: Development of transgenics in Pearl millet (2006-2008).

University Committee Memberships:

  • Member, Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBSC)
  • M.Tech Coordinator, Department of Biotechnology
  • Secretary, University Sports Contingency
  • Member, University Girls Sports
  • Member, Gender Champion
  • Coordinator, University Events
  • Coordinator, Hostels Maintenance
  • Secretary, Women Empowerment & Development Cell
  • Member, University Discipline Committee
  • University R&D Coordinator
  • Department Coordinator for NBA Inspection

Conferences & Workshops Organized:

  • Biotech – Industry Awareness Conference (2016) – Convener
  • International Conference “ICCSHD” (Dec 2019) – Steering Committee Member
  • INSYB 2020 International Conference (Nov 2020) – Organizing Secretary
  • 21 Webinars organized as Department Coordinator (2020-2021)
  • INBIX 2022, International Conference (Hybrid Mode) – Convener

Technical Expertise:

  • Molecular Biology Techniques
  • Development of Liquid Formulations of PGPR Strains
  • Tissue Culture and Transgenic Development
  • Molecular Markers
  • Maintenance of Greenhouse and Large Field Areas
  • Seed Storage and Data Collection for Large Populations
  • Handling High Throughput Methods

Citations Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 258
  • Citations Since 2019: 217
  • h-index: 9
  • h-index Since 2019: 8
  • i10-index: 9
  • i10-index Since 2019: 7

Publication Top Notes:

  • Role and regulation of osmolytes and ABA interaction in salt and drought stress tolerance
    G Rajasheker, G Jawahar, N Jalaja, SA Kumar, PH Kumari, DL Punita, …
    Plant Signaling Molecules, 417-436, 2019.
  • Genome-wide identification and expression profile analysis of nuclear factor Y family genes in Sorghum bicolor L. (Moench)
    P Maheshwari, D Kummari, SR Palakolanu, U Nagasai Tejaswi, …
    PloS One 14 (9), e0222203, 2019.
  • Plant cell cultures: biofactories for the production of bioactive compounds
    VA Bapat, PB Kavi Kishor, N Jalaja, SM Jain, S Penna
    Agronomy 13 (3), 858, 2023.
  • Effect of growth regulators, carbon source and cell aggregate size on berberine production from cell cultures of Tinospora cordifolia Miers
    RB Rama, KD Vijay, AR Naga, J N., V K., RA Maruthi, R Srinath, …
    Current Trends in Biotechnology and Pharmacy 2 (2), 269-276, 2008.
  • Osmolyte diversity, distribution, and their biosynthetic pathways
    G Jawahar, G Rajasheker, P Maheshwari, DL Punita, N Jalaja, PH Kumari, …
    Plant Signaling Molecules, 449-458, 2019.
  • Plant Signaling Molecules
    G Rajasheker, G Jawahar, N Jalaja, SA Kumar, PH Kumari, DL Punita, …
    Elsevier, 2019.
  • In vitro regeneration and optimization of conditions for transformation methods in Pearl millet, Pennisetum glaucum (L.)
    N Jalaja, P Maheshwari, KR Naidu, PB Kavi Kishor
    International Journal of Clinical and Biological Sciences 1 (1), 34-52, 2016.
  • Functional exploration of chaperonin (HSP60/10) family genes and their abiotic stress-induced expression patterns in Sorghum bicolor
    M Nagaraju, A Kumar, N Jalaja, DM Rao, PB Kishor
    Current Genomics 22 (2), 137-152, 2021.
  • Cloning, characterization and impact of up- and down-regulating subabul cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) gene on plant growth and lignin profiles in transgenic tobacco
    VL Sirisha, S Prashant, DR Kumar, S Pramod, N Jalaja, PH Kumari, …
    Plant Growth Regulation, doi:10.1007/s10725-011-9647-1, 66 (3), 239-253, 2012.
  • Metabolomic and proteomic signature of Gloriosa superba leaves treated with mercuric chloride and phenylalanine, a precursor of colchicine alkaloid
    J Gandra, HK Patel, SA Kumar, M Doma, Y Deepthi, P Bhalothia, N Jalaja, …
    Industrial Crops and Products 178, 114557, 2022.
  • Contribution of Bioinformatics to Gene Discovery in Salt Stress Responses in Plants
    PH Kumari, SA Kumar, P Suravajhala, J N, PR Giri, KPB Kavi
    Agricultural Bioinformatics, pp 109-127, 2014.
  • Transgenic tomatoes for abiotic stress tolerance and fruit traits: a review of progress and a preview of potential
    PH Kumari, SA Kumar, G Rajasheker, D Madhavi, N Jalaja, KK Shridhar, …
    Genetically Modified Crops: Current Status, Prospects and Challenges, 2021.
  • Development of transgenics for fungal resistance and discovery of chemically induced mutations in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) population by TILLING
    N Jalaja
    Osmania University, 2011.
  • Identification and analysis of proline-rich proteins and hybrid proline-rich proteins super family genes from Sorghum bicolor and their expression patterns to abiotic stress
    G Rajasheker, M Nagaraju, RP Varghese, N Jalaja, AK Somanaboina, …
    Frontiers in Plant Science 13, 952732, 2022.
  • Efficacy of entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria bassiana in pest management
    MVK Srivani, N Jalaja
    Current Trends in Biotechnology and Pharmacy 16 (4), 553-561, 2022.
  • Factors affecting Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L. Mill.)
    MM Rao, AJ Amita Jain, AM Rao, MSL Sunita, N Jalaja, PBK Kishor, 2009.
  • High frequency plant regeneration from callus cultures of two finger millet (Eleusine coracana) cultivars
    AM Rao, IS Kumar, N Jalaja, R Polavarapu, PB Kavi Kishor
    Current Trends in Biotechnology and Pharmacy 3 (1), 85-89, 2009.
  • Nutritional Value, In Vitro Regeneration and Development of Transgenic Cucurbita pepo and C. maxima for Stress Tolerance: An Overview
    PH Kumari, SA Kumar, G Rajasheker, N Jalaja, K Sujatha, PS Kumari, …
    Genetically Modified Crops: Current Status, Prospects and Challenges, 2021.
  • Essential oils from plant resources as potent insecticides and repellents: current status and future perspectives
    B Jyotsna, S Patil, YS Prakash, P Rathnagiri, PBK Kishor, N Jalaja
    Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology, 103395, 2024.

 

Zahoor Ahmad | Crop Physiology | Best Researcher Award

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)

 

 

Chikezie Onuora Ene | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

Dr Chikezie Onuora  Ene |  Plant Breeding |  Best Researcher Award

Lecturer II at  Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

 

Dr. Chikezie Onuora Ene is a distinguished academic and researcher in the Department of Crop Science at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike (AE-FUNAI). He earned his Ph.D. in Plant Breeding from Jimma University, Ethiopia, in 2023, where he conducted genetic analysis and quantitative trait loci mapping for tomato traits, graduating with a GPA of 3.86/4.00. He also holds an M.Sc. in Plant Breeding and Genetics from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, achieving a CGPA of 4.91/5.00, and a B.Sc. in Crop Production and Protection from Abia State University, Uturu, with first-class honors.

Profile:

Qualifications and Education:

  1. Ph.D. in Plant Breeding from Jimma University, Ethiopia, with a thesis on genetic analysis and QTL mapping for tomato traits. Graduated with a high GPA of 3.86/4.00.
  2. M.Sc. in Plant Breeding and Genetics from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, with a focus on variability and heritability in cucumber, and an outstanding CGPA of 4.91/5.00.
  3. B.Sc. in Crop Production and Protection from Abia State University, Uturu, with first-class honors and a CGPA of 4.62/5.00.

Research Interests:

Dr. Ene’s research focuses on improving fruit/grain yield and quality of vegetables and cereals under abiotic stresses using plant molecular breeding techniques. This is a highly relevant and impactful area of research, addressing critical issues in agriculture.

Work Experience:

  1. Lecturer in Crop Science Department at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike since 2017, teaching various crop science courses and contributing significantly to the academic community.
  2. Research/Laboratory Assistant at National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), involved in yam breeding, plant protection, and tissue culture.
  3. Field Enumerator/Farm Attendant at the Ministry of Agriculture, Abia State, focusing on cassava farming and processing data collection.
  4. Agricultural Science Teacher during the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at Kono Secondary School.

Training and Workshops:

  1. Training on GLMM at Jimma University.
  2. Hands-on training on marker-assisted breeding at BecA-ILRI hub, Nairobi, Kenya.
  3. Training on econometrics for policy analysis using Stata.
  4. Workshop on publishing and grant proposal writing.

Research Contributions and Impact:

Dr. Ene has been involved in significant research contributions across multiple projects and publications, particularly in:

  1. Fruit/Grain Yield Improvement under abiotic stresses.
  2. Plant Molecular Breeding and marker-assisted selection.
  3. Collaboration with international research bodies and institutions

Conclusion:

Given Dr. Ene’s extensive education, research focus, teaching experience, and contributions to the field of crop science, he is well-qualified for the Best Researcher Award. His work addresses crucial agricultural challenges, and his academic and professional achievements highlight his dedication and impact in the field.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Studies of phenotypic and genotypic variation in sixteen cucumber genotypes
    CO Ene, PE Ogbonna, CU Agbo, UP Chukwudi
    Chilean Journal of Agricultural Research, 76(3), 307-313, 2016. (82 citations)
  • Heterosis and combining ability in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)
    CO Ene, PE Ogbonna, CU Agbo, UP Chukwudi
    Information Processing in Agriculture, 6(1), 150-157, 2019. (38 citations)
  • Evaluation of Sixteen Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Genotypes in Derived Savannah Environment Using Path Coefficient Analysis
    CO Ene, PE Ogbonna, CU Agbo, UP Chukwudi
    Notulae Scientia Biologicae, 8(1), 85-92, 2016. (35 citations)
  • Correlation and path coefficient analyses of yield and yield components of eggplant (Solanum melongena) in a coarse-textured Ultisol
    VN Onyia, UP Chukwudi, AC Ezea, AI Atugwu, CO Ene
    Information Processing in Agriculture, 7(1), 173-181, 2020. (18 citations)
  • Environmental impact and genetic expressions of new drought-tolerant maize genotypes in derived savannah agro-ecology
    UNI Paul Inyang, Chikezie Onuora Ene, Ankrumah Emmanuel, Uchechukwu P. Chukwudi
    Notulae Scientia Biologicae, 13(1), 10691, 2021. (15 citations)
  • Genetic characterization and quantitative trait relationship using multivariate techniques reveal diversity among tomato germplasms
    CO Ene, WG Abtew, HO Oselebe, FU Ozi, UN Ikeogu
    Food Science & Nutrition, 10(7), 2426-2442, 2022. (7 citations)
  • Benefit Cost Analysis of Orange Flesh Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) Varieties under Varying Planting Density
    DA Uzoigwe, CO Muoneke, CC Nwokoro, CO Ene
    Notulae Scientia Biologicae, 11(1), 145-148, 2019. (6 citations)
  • Hybrid Vigor and Heritability Estimates in Tomato Crosses Involving Solanum lycopersicum × S. pimpinellifolium under Cool Tropical Monsoon Climate
    CO Ene, WG Abtew, HO Oselebe, FU Ozi, O Ogah, EC Okechukwu, …
    International Journal of Agronomy, 2023(1), 3003355, 2023. (5 citations)
  • Analysis of Leaf Yield Components in Fluted Pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook F.) Grown in Derived Savannah Agro-ecology
    UP Chukwudi, CU Agbo, CO Ene, CU Uba, JI Enyi
    Notulae Scientia Biologicae, 9(3), 386-391, 2017. (4 citations)
  • Growth and yield response of selected improved soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merrill) varieties to varying weeding regimes under a tropical condition
    CO Ene, A Anyim, UP Chukwudi, EC Okechukwu, UN Ikeogu
    Journal of Central European Agriculture, 20(1), 157-178, 2019. (3 citations)
  • Evaluation of Tomato Genotypes Growth, Yield, and Shelf Life Enhancement in Nigeria
    VN Onyia, UP Chukwudi, VC Ogwudu, AI Atugwu, SC Eze, CO Ene, …
    Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology, 21(1), 143-152, 2019. (3 citations)
  • Selfing revealed potential for higher yield performance than backcrossing among tomato segregating populations of Solanum lycopersicum × S. pimpinellifolium crosses under …
    CO Ene, WG Abtew, HO Oselebe, UP Chukwudi, EC Okechukwu, FU Ozi, …
    *Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 15, 100993, 2024. (1 citation)
  • Influence of varying preservation methods on the shelf life and proximate composition of Pleurotus plumonarius (Fr) Quel cultivated on Andropogon gayanus substrate
    CM Ahaiwe, O Nnamdi, CO Ene, UP Chukwudi
    International Journal of Agriculture Environment and Food Sciences, 3(3), 2019. (1 citation)

 

Faheem shahzad Baloch | Crop Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Prof Faheem shahzad Baloch |  Crop Genetics |  Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. at  Mersin University,  Turkey

Prof. Dr. Faheem Shehzad Baloch is a distinguished professor specializing in plant genetics and breeding at Mersin University, Turkey. He completed his Ph.D. in Field Crops from Çukurova University with a dissertation on QTL mapping in wheat. His research is deeply rooted in plant phenomics, genetics, genomics, and biotechnology, with a focus on next-generation sequencing (NGS) and DNA molecular markers. Dr. Faheem has extensive experience in germplasm characterization and the development of molecular markers for marker-assisted selection and genomic prediction, particularly in cereals and legumes. He has participated in numerous national and international projects and has supervised many MSc, PhD, and postdoctoral candidates from various countries.

Profile:

Education:

Ph.D. in Field Crops
Çukurova University, Institute of Applied Science, Adana, Turkey
Dissertation: QTL Mapping of Some Agronomic Traits in Bread Wheat
Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Rüştü Hatipoğlu

M.Sc. in Agronomy
Bahuddine Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
Thesis: Effect of Soil Applied Zinc Sulphate on Wheat
Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Muhammad Aslam Khan

B.Sc. in Agronomy
Bahuddine Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan

Work Experience:

Professor
Mersin University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biotechnology
2024 – Present

Associate Professor
Sivas University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology
2020 – 2024

Assistant Professor
Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, Faculty of Agricultural and Natural Sciences, Department of Field Crops
2015 – 2020

Niğde Ömer Halis Demir University, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technologies, Department of Agricultural Genetic Engineering
2013 – 2015

Awards and Recognitions:

  • Gold Medal for M.Sc. (Hons) Agronomy, Bahuddin Zakariya University
  • Cultural Exchange Scholarship for Ph.D. Studies, Turkish Govt.
  • Doctoral Fellowship, TÜBİTAK
  • Multiple Publication Prizes, TÜBİTAK
  • Travel Grants from Kirkhouse Trust and COST
  • Financial Aid from OIC-COMSTECH

Notable Publications and Projects:

  • SCI/SCIE/ESCI Articles: 112
  • Senior Author Articles: 29
  • International Book Edited: 8
  • International Book Chapters: 16
  • TÜBİTAK and other Research Projects: Numerous
  • Extensive involvement in COST actions and international collaborations

Research Focus: Crop Genetics

  • Crop Genetics and Breeding:
    • Enhancing crop performance through traditional and modern breeding techniques.
    • Developing new varieties with improved yield, disease resistance, and environmental tolerance.
  • Molecular Breeding:
    • Utilizing molecular markers to accelerate the breeding process.
    • Incorporating genetic diversity into breeding programs to enhance crop resilience.
  • Molecular Genetics:
    • Studying the genetic basis of important agronomic traits.
    • Investigating gene functions and interactions to understand trait expression.
  • Gene/QTL Tagging:
    • Identifying and mapping genes and quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with key agronomic traits.
    • Developing marker-assisted selection strategies for efficient breeding.
  • Agronomy:
    • Integrating genetic research with agronomic practices to optimize crop production.
    • Studying the impact of environmental factors on crop growth and development.

Citations:

Total Citations: 4516
Citations Since 2019: 3663

h-index: 35
h-index Since 2019: 31

i10-index: 90
i10-index Since 2019: 83

Publication Top Notes:

  • DNA Molecular Markers in Plant Breeding: Current Status and Recent Advancements in Genomic Selection and Genome Editing
    Citation: 860 (2018)
    Journal: Biotechnology & Biotechnological Equipment, 32(2), 261-285
    Co-authors: MA Nadeem, MA Nawaz, MQ Shahid, Y Doğan, G Comertpay, M Yıldız, …
  • A Whole Genome DArTseq and SNP Analysis for Genetic Diversity Assessment in Durum Wheat from Central Fertile Crescent
    Citation: 172 (2017)
    Journal: PLOS ONE, 12(1), e0167821
    Co-authors: A Alsaleh, MQ Shahid, V Çiftçi, L E. Sáenz de Miera, M Aasim, …
  • Effect of Soil Applied Zinc Sulphate on Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Grown on a Calcareous Soil in Pakistan
    Citation: 130 (2008)
    Journal: Cereal Research Communications, 36(4), 571-582
    Co-authors: M Khan, M Fuller
  • Diversity of Macro- and Micronutrients in the Seeds of Lentil Landraces
    Citation: 117 (2012)
    Journal: The Scientific World Journal, 2012(1), 710412
    Co-authors: T Karaköy, H Erdem, F Toklu, S Eker, B Kilian, H Özkan
  • Nutritional and Physicochemical Variation in Turkish Kabuli Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Landraces
    Citation: 107 (2010)
    Journal: Euphytica, 175, 237-249
    Co-authors: S Özer, T Karaköy, F Toklu, B Kilian, H Özkan
  • iPBS-Retrotransposons-based Genetic Diversity and Relationship Among Wild Annual Cicer Species
    Citation: 97 (2013)
    Journal: Journal of Plant Biochemistry and Biotechnology, 22, 453-466
    Co-authors: EE Andeden, M Derya, B Kilian, H Özkan
  • Diversity Assessment of Turkish Maize Landraces Based on Fluorescent Labelled SSR Markers
    Citation: 95 (2012)
    Journal: Plant Molecular Biology Reporter, 30, 261-274
    Co-authors: G Cömertpay, B Kilian, AC Ülger, H Özkan
  • Genetic Analysis of Some Physical Properties of Bread Wheat Grain (Triticum aestivum L. em Thell)
    Citation: 90 (2009)
    Journal: Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry, 33(6), 525-535
    Co-authors: C Yücel, H Özkan
  • DNA Based iPBS-retrotransposon Markers for Investigating the Population Structure of Pea (Pisum sativum) Germplasm from Turkey
    Citation: 86 (2015)
    Journal: Biochemical Systematics and Ecology, 61, 244-252
    Co-authors: A Alsaleh, LES de Miera, R Hatipoğlu, V Çiftçi, T Karaköy, …
  • Characterization of Genetic Diversity in Turkish Common Bean Gene Pool Using Phenotypic and Whole-genome DArTseq-generated SilicoDArT Marker Information
    Citation: 82 (2018)
    Journal: PLOS ONE, 13(10), e0205363
    Co-authors: MA Nadeem, E Habyarimana, V Çiftçi, MA Nawaz, T Karaköy, …