Nokwazi Carol Mbili | Plant Pathology | Research Excellence Award

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Dr. Nokwazi Carol Mbili | Plant Pathology | Research Excellence Award

Senior Lecturer | University of KwaZulu-nATAL | South Africa

Dr. Nokwazi Carol Mbili is a researcher specializing in Plant Pathology, with strong expertise in Postharvest Pathology, Postharvest Technology, Food Safety, and Biological Control. Her research focuses on sustainable management of postharvest diseases in horticultural crops, emphasizing plant-based extracts, biological control agents, and integrated disease management strategies to enhance food quality and safety. She also explores innovative, eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic fungicides for fresh produce preservation. Dr. Mbili currently serves as a Senior Lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where she contributes to teaching, postgraduate supervision, and collaborative research in plant health and postharvest systems. Her key contributions include advancing knowledge on natural antifungal compounds, edible coatings, and integrated control strategies for fungal pathogens affecting fruits and cereals. Her work supports sustainable agriculture by reducing postharvest losses, improving food safety, and promoting environmentally responsible technologies with direct relevance to industry, policy development, and global food security initiatives.

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Shriram Shinde | Entomology | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Shriram Shinde | Entomology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | Sau. KSK Kaku college of Agriculture | India

Dr. Shriram is a researcher and Assistant Professor specializing in Agricultural Entomology, with core expertise in insect pest management and sericulture. His research focuses on integrated pest management (IPM), bio-efficacy and residual toxicity of insecticides, pest population dynamics in field crops, and ecofriendly pest control strategies, with emerging interests in sustainable IPM frameworks and sericulture productivity enhancement. He has extensive academic experience as an Assistant Professor, contributing to teaching, field-oriented research, and extension-focused pest management solutions. Dr. Shinde has made significant contributions through validated IPM modules for major crops such as okra, brinjal, pigeonpea, and soybean, advancing evidence-based insecticide use and reducing environmental risk. His peer-reviewed research has informed pest management practices at regional and farm levels. His impact vision centers on strengthening sustainable agriculture by integrating scientific pest control innovations with practical field applicability, supporting food security, environmental safety, and resilient farming systems.

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Nuria Pedrol | Sustainable Weed Management | Research Excellence Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nuria Pedrol | Sustainable Weed Management | Research Excellence Award

Associate Professor | University of Vigo | Spain

Dr. Nuria Pedrol is a distinguished researcher in Plant Ecophysiology, Allelopathy, Weed Control, and Organic Farming, with a strong focus on plant interactions, stress physiology, and sustainable weed management. Her research primarily explores the biochemical and ecological roles of allelochemicals in plant–plant interactions, natural bioherbicide development, and plant responses to abiotic stress, alongside emerging interests in green manure-based weed suppression and soil restoration. She has served as a researcher and faculty member at the University of Vigo, contributing to leading projects on environmental sustainability and crop protection. She has co-authored notable scientific books and handbook chapters, and her transcriptomic studies in Arabidopsis have deepened understanding of plant detoxification mechanisms. With high-impact publications, refined biochemical methodologies, and sustainable agriculture innovations, her work promotes low-chemical-input farming and improved soil health. Guided by a vision of climate-adaptive and eco-friendly agriculture, she aims to advance natural-product herbicides and ecological crop management for global food security and environmental conservation.

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Sharif Ahmed | Weed Management | Editorial Board Member

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Dr. Sharif Ahmed | Weed management | Editorial Board Member

Postdoctoral Fellow | International Rice Research Institute | Bangladesh

Sharif Ahmed is a distinguished agricultural research specialist whose core specialization lies in resource conservation technologies, dry-seeded rice systems, weed management, cropping systems, and crop modeling under climate change scenarios. His research focuses on developing sustainable, high-efficiency rice production strategies that enhance crop performance while minimizing environmental impacts, with emerging interests in climate-smart agronomic innovations and integrated weed ecology for resilient farming systems. Over his career, he has served as a Specialist in Agricultural Research and Development at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), where he has contributed extensively to improving rice cultivation practices across Asia, particularly in Bangladesh and the Philippines. Sharif Ahmed’s key scientific contributions include pioneering studies on herbicide performance, nitrogen use efficiency, sowing management, and weed biology in dry-seeded rice ecosystems, leading to significant advancements in understanding crop–weed interactions and optimizing agronomic inputs for productivity. His work has generated widely cited publications on integrated weed management, seed rate optimization, herbicide efficacy, and sowing strategies tailored to floodplain environments, directly informing best practices for sustainable rice production. In addition, his research on the germination ecology of problematic weed species and the morphological plasticity of Leptochloa chinensis has provided critical insights for improved weed control policies and cropping system design. Through collaborations with leading agronomists, Sharif Ahmed has helped develop decision-support frameworks that enhance farmers’ ability to adopt resource-efficient technologies, thereby supporting both national and regional food security goals. His research outcomes have influenced agricultural extension programs, technology dissemination models, and environmentally sound weed management guidelines used in multiple rice-growing regions. Sharif Ahmed envisions a future where evidence-based agricultural innovation drives resilient food systems, climate adaptability, and sustainable intensification of rice production. His ongoing efforts aim to bridge scientific discovery with practical field applications, empowering farming communities through knowledge, improved production strategies, and eco-friendly crop management tools. By contributing to global discussions on crop sustainability and climate-adapted agronomy, he continues to advance a research agenda that supports food security, environmental stewardship, and the long-term viability of agricultural ecosystems worldwide.

Profile: Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus | ResearchGate 

Featured Publications 

1. Ahmed, S., Salim, M., & Chauhan, B. S. (2014). Effect of weed management and seed rate on crop growth under direct dry-seeded rice systems in Bangladesh. PLOS ONE, 9(7), e101919.

2. Ahmed, S., & Chauhan, B. S. (2014). Performance of different herbicides in dry-seeded rice in Bangladesh. The Scientific World Journal, 2014, 729418.

3. Chauhan, B. S., Ahmed, S., Awan, T. H., Jabran, K., & Manalil, S. (2015). Integrated weed management approach to improve weed control efficiencies for sustainable rice production in dry-seeded systems. Crop Protection, 71, 19–24.

4. Ahmed, S., Humphreys, E., Salim, M., & Chauhan, B. S. (2016). Growth, yield and nitrogen use efficiency of dry-seeded rice as influenced by nitrogen and seed rates in Bangladesh. Field Crops Research, 186, 18–31.

5. Ahmed, S., & Chauhan, B. S. (2015). Efficacy and phytotoxicity of different rates of oxadiargyl and pendimethalin in dry-seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Bangladesh. Crop Protection, 72, 169–174.

Aarthi R | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Aarthi R | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

PhD scholar | Central Rice Research Institute | India

Aarthi is currently pursuing her postgraduate studies as a PG Scholar in Plant Pathology at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, where she focuses on advanced plant–microbe interactions. She holds a strong academic background in agricultural sciences, with specialized training in plant pathology, microbial biotechnology, and biocontrol strategies. Her primary research interests center on the exploration and application of endophytic microorganisms for the biological control of soilborne plant pathogens, alongside the development of sustainable disease management techniques. Emerging interests include molecular mechanisms underlying host–pathogen interactions and the integration of microbial metabolites into crop protection frameworks. Professionally, Aarthi has gained valuable academic research experience through her role at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, contributing to multiple laboratory and field-based studies on crop disease mitigation. Among her key scientific contributions, Aarthi has led investigations into the antifungal properties of endophytes against Rhizoctonia bataticola, revealing novel metabolite profiles and plant defense responses that offer potential for eco-friendly alternatives to chemical fungicides. Additionally, her work on isolating and characterizing saline-tolerant endophytes for the management of groundnut root rot has provided promising insights for agriculture in saline-prone regions, supporting both crop resilience and sustainable farming practices. Her research has resulted in peer-reviewed publications in reputed journals such as Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology and Plant Science Today. Aarthi has been an active participant in scientific dissemination, engaging in peer review, conference presentations, and contributing to the academic community through institutional projects. She is affiliated with Tamil Nadu Agricultural University’s research network and participates in broader academic and scientific societies related to plant pathology and agricultural innovation. Her vision is to harness microbial biodiversity to develop sustainable, scalable plant disease management solutions that can reduce chemical inputs, enhance crop productivity, and support global food security in the face of climate change.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Aarthi. (2025). Biocontrol potential of endophytes against Rhizoctonia bataticola: Antifungal activity, metabolite profiling, and plant defense mechanisms. Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology, 103(7), Article 102734. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmpp.2025.102734

2. Aarthi. (2024). Isolation, identification, characterization and in vitro assay of saline tolerant endophytes against groundnut root rot caused by Rhizoctonia bataticola (Taub.) Butler. Plant Science Today, 11(4), 4882. https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.4882

Hou-Hong Yang | Pest Control | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Hou-Hong Yang | Pest Control | Best Researcher Award

Doctoral Candidate at Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences | China

Hou-Hong Yang is a dedicated researcher at the China National Rice Research Institute, specializing in the complex interactions between plants and insects. With a strong focus on molecular biology techniques, she contributes significantly to understanding plant resistance mechanisms against insect pests. Her work highlights the role of salivary effectors in compromising rice plant defenses, which advances the scientific community's knowledge of pest management. Hou-Hong is committed to improving rice production and sustainability through innovative research and collaborative efforts in the field of plant-insect interactions. Hou-Hong Yang is currently pursuing a doctoral degree at the China National Rice Research Institute. She has developed advanced expertise in molecular cloning, recombinant protein expression, and protein purification techniques. Her academic journey is driven by a deep passion for plant-insect interaction research and the use of cutting-edge molecular biology methods. Hou-Hong actively participates in academic conferences and publications, demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning and applying innovative approaches to agricultural challenges, particularly in the rice cultivation sector. As a doctoral candidate, Hou-Hong Yang actively conducts research focused on brown planthopper (BPH) infestation in rice. Her work involves molecular analysis of the defensive regulatory network associated with circRNA responses in rice. She has presented her research at the International Conference on Insect Science 2025, providing insights into how BPH effectors target host proteins. Her professional responsibilities include experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication, contributing significantly to knowledge that supports pest resistance strategies in agriculture. Hou-Hong Yang’s primary research interests lie in the interaction between plants and insects, with a focus on the molecular mechanisms that enable pest virulence and plant defense suppression. She is particularly interested in studying the role of salivary effectors from the brown planthopper and their impact on rice resistance. Her research aims to elucidate how these effectors interact with host proteins to undermine plant immune responses, offering insights essential for developing sustainable pest management strategies in rice production. Hou-Hong Yang has been recognized for her outstanding research contributions. Her work stands out for advancing the understanding of how brown planthopper salivary effectors affect rice resistance. She is a professional member of The Entomological Society of China, reflecting her commitment to contributing to scientific discourse in the field. Her research achievements are also highlighted through publications in respected journals such as Plants and Insects.

Profile:  ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Wang X, Wang Y, Yang H, Liu F, Cai Y, Xiao J, Fu Q, Wan P. Integrative Omics Strategies for Understanding and Combating Brown Planthopper Virulence in Rice Production: A Review. Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Oct 12.

2. Wang, Y. , Wang, X. , Zhang, K. , Xiao, J. , Liu, F. , & Yang, H. , et al. (2025). Transcriptomic comparison of rice lncrnas in response to feeding by brown planthopper populations with different virulence. International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Jalal Gholamnezhad – Plant Pathology – Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Jalal Gholamnezhad - Plant Pathology - Best Researcher Award

Ardakan university - Iran

AUTHOR PROFILE

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

SUMMARY

Dr. Jalal Gholamnezhad is an esteemed academic in the field of plant pathology, with expertise spanning biological control, molecular mycology, and gene expression studies. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Ardakan University, Iran, his work integrates biotechnology, plant defense mechanisms, and sustainable agricultural practices. With a commitment to education, research, and innovation, Dr. Gholamnezhad has significantly contributed to both academic literature and applied agricultural solutions.

EDUCATION

Dr. Gholamnezhad earned his Ph.D. in Plant Pathology (Molecular Mycology) from Modares University in 2014. He completed his M.S. in Plant Pathology with a focus on Biological Control at Tehran University in 2009. His undergraduate degree was in Plant Protection from Isfahan University of Technology. His education emphasized biotechnology, molecular biology, and gene expression related to plant disease management.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Since 2015, Dr. Gholamnezhad has served as an Assistant Professor at Ardakan University’s Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources. He has also taught courses in plant biotechnology, genetics, botany, and agricultural principles. Earlier, in 2012, he worked as a lecturer at Pakdash Agriculture College. He also led the university’s Central Laboratory from 2017 to 2019, contributing to infrastructure and academic development.

RESEARCH INTEREST

His research focuses on the biological and molecular mechanisms of plant-pathogen interactions, postharvest disease management, and natural product applications in agriculture. He is particularly interested in defense gene expression, biocontrol agents like yeasts and Trichoderma species, and enhancing plant resistance using natural extracts and stress-mitigation techniques. These interests are directed toward sustainable and eco-friendly plant disease solutions.

AWARD AND HONOR

Dr. Gholamnezhad’s recognition is evident through his extensive supervisory roles, numerous research publications, and conference presentations at international platforms such as IUMS and SGEM. His work in reducing environmental impact through biological control strategies has gained appreciation within both academic and applied research communities.

RESEARCH SKILL

Dr. Gholamnezhad is skilled in molecular diagnostics, defense gene expression analysis, use of biocontrol agents, postharvest treatment, and application of natural products in plant disease management. He demonstrates expertise in experimental design, enzyme activity assays, transcriptomics, and integrating biotechnology into agricultural solutions. His teaching and leadership roles further highlight his technical proficiency and mentoring capabilities.

PUBLICATIONS

He has authored more than 25 journal papers in both international and national journals. Topics include biocontrol of apple molds, gene expression in wheat, plant extract efficacy, nano-coating applications, and effects of salicylic acid. Notable contributions involve transcriptomic evaluations and innovative techniques in plant-pathogen resistance. He has also co-authored two academic books on genetics and biotechnology, enriching agricultural education.

  • Title: Effect of plant extracts on activity of some defense enzymes of apple fruit in interaction with Botrytis cinerea
    Author: J Gholamnezhad
    Journal: Journal of Integrative Agriculture

  • Title: Time-dependent crack propagation in a poroelastic medium using a fully coupled hydromechanical displacement discontinuity method
    Author: A Abdollahipour, MF Marji, AY Bafghi, J Gholamnejad
    Journal: International Journal of Fracture

  • Title: Biological control of apple blue mold with Candida membranifaciens and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa
    Author: J Gholamnejad, HR Etebarian, N Sahebani
    Journal: African Journal of Food Science

  • Title: The Effect of Humic Acid and Biochar on Growth and Nutrients Uptake of Calendula (Calendula officinalis L.)
    Author: E Karimi, M Shirmardi, M Dehestani Ardakani, J Gholamnezhad
    Journal: Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis

  • Title: Effect of salicylic acid on enzyme activity in wheat in immediate early time after infection with Mycosphaerella graminicola
    Author: J Gholamnezhad, F Sanjarian, EM Goltapeh, N Safaie, KH Razavi

CONCLUSION

Dr. Jalal Gholamnezhad is a committed researcher and educator whose work bridges academic excellence with practical agricultural solutions. His dedication to plant pathology, particularly through eco-friendly disease control and defense mechanisms, showcases a progressive approach to sustainable agriculture. His leadership in education, supervision, and impactful research underlines his value as a scholarly and applied contributor to the field.