Minyahil Kebede Earecho | Plant Pathology | Innovative Research Award

Innovative Research Award

Minyahil Kebede Earecho
Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Ethiopia
Minyahil Kebede Earecho
Affiliation Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research
Country Ethiopia
Scopus ID 58953799600
Documents 3
Citations 7
h-index 1
Subject Area Plant Pathology
Event Agri Scientist Awards
ORCID 0000-0003-2825-1330

Minyahil Kebede Earecho is a plant pathology researcher affiliated with the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research whose research addresses crop diseases, parasitic weeds, and agricultural pests affecting important Ethiopian crops. His published studies include resistance screening in wheat and sorghum and evaluation of soybean resistance to storage pests. The research record reflects an applied emphasis on identifying useful resistance sources for crop improvement and integrated plant protection. His work has appeared in agricultural and plant health journals and includes studies published through 2026, providing a basis for considering his research within an agricultural innovation and plant health recognition context. [1]

Abstract

Minyahil Kebede Earecho is a plant pathology researcher at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research whose work addresses crop disease resistance and pest-related constraints affecting Ethiopian agriculture. His research includes Fusarium head blight of bread wheat, anthracnose resistance in sorghum, Striga hermonthica resistance, and soybean resistance to Callosobruchus chinensis. Across these studies, he evaluates diverse genotypes to identify resistance sources and support crop improvement. His work combines field and controlled screening with disease or pest measurements, contributing evidence for breeding and integrated crop protection. These research themes position his scholarly profile within applied plant health and agricultural productivity in Ethiopia. [2]

Keywords

Plant pathology, Fusarium head blight, wheat disease resistance, Fusarium graminearum, Fusarium culmorum, sorghum anthracnose, Striga hermonthica, sorghum landraces, soybean resistance, Callosobruchus chinensis, bruchid resistance, genotype screening, disease assessment, resistance breeding, crop protection, Ethiopian agriculture.

Introduction

Minyahil Kebede Earecho’s research is situated within plant pathology and crop protection in Ethiopia. His studies examine diseases, parasitic weeds, and storage pests affecting economically important crops. The work emphasizes identifying resistant genotypes and documenting pathogen or pest pressures, providing evidence that can inform breeding, disease management, and agricultural production. [1]

Research Profile

Minyahil Kebede Earecho is affiliated with the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research and the Assosa Agricultural Research Center. Publications associate him with plant protection research involving wheat, sorghum, and soybean. His scholarly profile reflects applied investigation of crop health, resistance screening, disease assessment, and pest management under Ethiopian production conditions. [3]

Research Contributions

Minyahil Kebede Earecho’s research contributes resistance information for crop constraints. Studies have evaluated bread wheat against Fusarium head blight, sorghum against anthracnose and Striga hermonthica, and soybean against Callosobruchus chinensis. These investigations identify variation among genotypes and highlight candidates or traits that may support breeding, integrated management, and crop protection. [4]

Publications

Minyahil Kebede Earecho’s documented publications include research on wheat head blight, sorghum Striga resistance, sorghum anthracnose resistance, and soybean bruchid resistance. These studies appear in journals including Advances in Crop Science and Technology, Weed Technology, Discover Plants, and Bulletin of Entomological Research, with several articles providing DOI-linked records recently online. [3]

Research Impact

Minyahil Kebede Earecho’s research has relevance through identification of crop genotypes with stronger resistance to biological stresses. Such evidence can support breeding priorities and integrated crop protection in Ethiopia. His studies also provide baseline information on disease occurrence and resistance variation, helping connect field observations with agricultural research decisions. [2]

Award Suitability

Minyahil Kebede Earecho’s research record aligns with an innovative research recognition focused on practical plant health challenges. His investigations address multiple crop constraints and use genotype screening to identify resistance sources. Disease assessment, pest evaluation, and crop improvement relevance provide a scholarly basis for consideration within an agriculture research award. [1]

Conclusion

Minyahil Kebede Earecho’s research profile demonstrates engagement with plant pathology and crop protection questions relevant to Ethiopian agriculture. His publications address disease and pest resistance across crops, generating evidence for resistance breeding and integrated management. Record supports recognition of contributions connecting plant health science with agricultural productivity and crop improvement. [4]

References

  1. ORCID. Minyahil Kebede Earecho Research Profile.
    https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2825-1330
  2. Scopus Author Profile. Minyahil Kebede Earecho.
    https://www.scopus.com/pages/authors/58953799600
  3. Earecho, M. K., and H. Alemu. “Phenotyping sorghum genotypes for anthracnose resistance in Western Ethiopia.” Discover Plants, 3, Article 15, 2026. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s44372-026-00478-3.
  4. Google Scholar. (n.d.). Scholarly publications and citation profile.
    https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=nOarP14AAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao.
  5. Earecho, M. K. “Distribution of Wheat Head Blight, Identification and Characterization of Associated Fusarium Species in Southwestern Ethiopia.” M.Sc. Thesis, Jimma University, 2018. Repository record: Jimma University Repository.

Younes Rezaee Danesh | Plant Protection | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr Younes Rezaee Danesh |  Plant Protection |  Best Researcher Award

Full Professor at  Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Turkey

Younes Rezaee Danesh is a Full Professor specializing in mycology, plant pathology, and biological control. His work focuses on symbiotic fungi, bio-fertilizers, and eco-friendly plant growth enhancers. He has held academic positions in Iran and Turkey, and led an EU-funded HORIZON 2020 project. With over 1000 citations, he has contributed significantly to sustainable agriculture research, collaborating with international partners and publishing numerous high-impact papers. He is also a member of various scientific societies and editorial boards. His research aims to promote plant resistance against abiotic and biotic stresses through microbial solutions.

Publication Profile

Academic and Professional Background:

Younes Rezaee Danesh has held various academic roles in multiple countries, beginning in 2007 at Urmia University, Iran. He has also led a HORIZON 2020 EU-funded project at the Soil, Fertilizer and Water Resources Central Research Institute in Ankara, Turkey. His research focuses on mycology, plant pathology, and biological control, emphasizing the eco-friendly use of symbiotic fungi as bio-fertilizers and biostimulants. With numerous international collaborations, Younes has over 1000 citations and is a member of several global scientific societies.

Research and Innovations:

  • Completed/Ongoing Research Projects:
    • Leader of 4 completed projects, co-researcher in 4 completed projects.
    • Currently leading 2 projects and acting as co-researcher in 2 others.
  • Citation Index:
    • H-Index: 16
    • More than 1000 citations
  • Consultancy/Industry Projects:
    • Advisor in 2 projects at the Soil, Fertilizer and Water Resources Central Research Institute, Ankara, Turkey.
    • Management Committee Member for COST Action Projects (COST 22158, COST 22142).
  • Books Published (ISBN):
    • Authored and contributed to 10 books and book chapters, including titles published by Springer and Elsevier.
  • Journals Published (SCI, Scopus, etc.):
    • Published 73 papers in indexed journals.
  • Editorial Appointments:
    • Member of editorial boards in journals including International Journal of Agricultural Technology and Frontiers in Physiology.
  • Collaborations:
    • Extensive collaborations with research institutes and universities in countries such as Turkey, Hungary, Italy, and Spain.

Professional Memberships:

  • Life member in various scientific organizations, including the Asian Mycorrhizal Society and the Iranian Society of Plant Pathology.

Areas of Research:

  • Agricultural Sciences, Mycology, Plant Pathology, Biotechnology, Environmental Biology, and Microbial Genetics.

Contributions:

Younes Rezaee Danesh’s work has significantly impacted sustainable agriculture by promoting eco-friendly microbial solutions to enhance plant growth and stress resilience. His research on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and plant-microbe interactions has offered innovative biofertilization strategies, improving nutrient uptake and reducing dependence on chemical inputs. These contributions address critical challenges in food security, particularly in regions affected by drought and salinity.

Citations:

  • All time: 1046
  • Since 2019: 601

h-index:

  • All time: 16
  • Since 2019: 13

i10-index:

  • All time: 28
  • Since 2019: 17

Publication Top Notes

  • Mycorrhizal fungi: what we know and what should we know?
    EM Goltapeh, YR Danesh, R Prasad, A Varma
    Mycorrhiza: State of the Art, Genetics and Molecular Biology, Eco-function
    Citations: 121 (2008)
  • Effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi on growth, essential oil production, and nutrients uptake in basil
    M Rasouli-Sadaghiani, A Hassani, M Barin, YR Danesh, F Sefidkon
    Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 4(21): 2222-2228
    Citations: 115 (2010)
  • Mycorrhiza: state of the art, genetics and molecular biology, eco-function, biotechnology, eco-physiology, structure and systematics
    A Varma
    Citations: 84 (2008)
  • Fungi as bioremediators
    EM Goltapeh, YR Danesh, A Varma
    Springer Science & Business Media
    Citations: 50 (2013)
  • Effects of heavy metal resistant soil microbes inoculation and soil Cd concentration on growth and metal uptake of millet, couch grass, and alfalfa
    M Rahmanian, K Habib, RD Younes, RS Mir Hasan
    African Journal of Microbiology Research, 5(4): 403-410
    Citations: 31 (2011)
  • Genetic analysis of partial resistance to basal stem rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) in sunflower
    M Amouzadeh, R Darvishzadeh, P Haddadi, BA Mandoulakani
    Genetika (Belgrade), 45(3): 737-748
    Citations: 30 (2013)
  • Bioremediation and genetically modified organisms
    M Jafari, YR Danesh, EM Goltapeh, A Varma
    Fungi as Bioremediators: 433-451
    Citations: 29 (2012)
  • Mycoremediation of heavy metals
    YR Danesh, M Tajbakhsh, EM Goltapeh, A Varma
    Fungi as Bioremediators: 245-267
    Citations: 29 (2012)
  • Biological control of Fusarium basal rot of onion using Trichoderma harzianum and Glomus mosseae
    B Ghanbarzadeh, N Safaie, E Mohammadi Goltapeh, Y Rezaee Danesh
    Journal of Crop Protection, 5(3): 359-368
    Citations: 28 (2016)
  • Optimizing carrot hairy root production for monoxenic culture of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in Iran
    YR Danesh, EM Goltapeh, A Alizadeh, MM Sanavy
    Journal of Biological Sciences, 6(1): 87-91
    Citations: 28 (2006)
  • Antagonistic effects of Trichoderma species in biocontrol of Armillaria mellea in fruit trees in Iran
    M Asef, E Goltapeh, Y Danesh
    Journal of Plant Protection Research, 48(2)
    Citations: 26 (2008)
  • Pathogenic interactions between Trichoderma species and Agaricus bisporus
    ME Goltapeh, Y Rezaei Danesh
    Journal of Agricultural Technology, 2: 29-37
    Citations: 24 (2006)
  • Effects of some biological agents on the growth and biochemical parameters of tomato plants infected with Alternaria solani (Ellis & Martin) Sorauer
    G Boyno, S Demir, YR Danesh
    European Journal of Plant Pathology, 162(1): 19-29
    Citations: 23 (2022)
  • Effects of thyme (zaatar) essential oil and some chemical compounds in the control of citrus bacterial canker in Iran
    S Samavi, N Hassanzadeh, MM Faghihi, YR Danesh
    Journal of Plant Pathology: 691-696
    Citations: 21 (2009)
  • Identification of Trichoderma species causing green mould in button mushroom farms, distribution and their relative abundance
    YR Danesh, EM Goltapeh, H Rohani
    Citations: 18 (2001)
  • Studies on interaction between Trichoderma species and Agaricus bisporus mycelium
    EM Goltapeh, YR Danesh
    Citations: 17 (2000)
  • Morphophysiological and biochemical responses of Zinnia elegans to different irrigation regimes in symbiosis with Glomus mosseae
    Z Heidari, MJ Nazarideljou, Y Rezaei Danesh, N Khezrinejad
    International Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology, 3(1): 19-32
    Citations: 15 (2016)
  • The complex interplay between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and strigolactone: Mechanisms, synergies, applications and future directions
    G Boyno, Y Rezaee Danesh, S Demir, N Teniz, JM Mulet, R Porcel
    International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(23): 16774
    Citations: 14 (2023)
  • Foliar applications of ZnO and its nanoparticles increase safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) growth and yield under water stress
    M Ghiyasi, Y Rezaee Danesh, R Amirnia, S Najafi, JM Mulet, R Porcel
    Agronomy, 13(1): 192
    Citations: 14 (2023)
  • Rock phosphate solubilizing potential of soil microorganisms: advances in sustainable crop production
    B Khoshru, AF Nosratabad, D Mitra, M Chaithra, YR Danesh, G Boyno
    Bacteria, 2(2): 98-115
    Citations: 13 (2023)

 

Thirugnanasambandham K | Plant | Best Researcher Award

Dr Thirugnanasambandham K | Plant |  Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Fellow at  Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore,  India

Dr. K. Thirugnanasambandham is a dedicated chemist with extensive expertise in environmental engineering, modeling, and chemistry. He holds a PhD in Chemistry from Kongu Engineering College (Anna University, Chennai), awarded in 2015, following his M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees in Chemistry from Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, where he consistently achieved first-class honors. In addition, he holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications, furthering his interdisciplinary skills.

Publication profile:

Educational Qualifications:

Ph.D. (2012-2015)

  • Discipline: Chemistry
  • Institute: Kongu Engineering College, Perundurai
  • University: Anna University, Chennai

M.Sc. (2009-2011)

  • Discipline: Chemistry
  • Institute: SRMV College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore
  • University: Bharathiar University, Coimbatore
  • Class: First Class

B.Sc. (2006-2009)

  • Discipline: Chemistry
  • Institute: NGM College of Arts and Science, Pollachi
  • University: Bharathiar University, Coimbatore
  • Class: First Class with Distinction

Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Application (2007-2008)

  • Institute: Macripoint Computer Education Center, Pollachi
  • University: Indian Distance Computer Education, Coonoor
  • Class: First Class

Research Interests:

  • Chemistry
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Modeling

Industry/Research Experience:

The individual began their career as a Junior Chemist at New Venus Industries, Chennai, where they worked from May 2, 2011, to September 13, 2011. They then transitioned to an academic role as a UGC-Project Fellow at Kongu Engineering College in Erode, Tamil Nadu, from September 15, 2011, to February 1, 2014. Afterward, they pursued postdoctoral opportunities abroad, starting as a CAPES-Post Doctoral Fellow at the University of Maringa, Brazil, from February 1, 2016, to January 30, 2017. Following this, they joined Sun Yat-sen University in China as an NFSC-Post Doctoral Fellow from November 1, 2017, to November 15, 2018.

Their international research journey continued at Dublin City University, Ireland, where they worked as a Post Doctoral Fellow from March 1, 2019, to February 19, 2020. They then moved to Lodz University of Technology, Poland, where they held another Post Doctoral Fellow position from December 1, 2021, to August 31, 2022. Currently, they are continuing their postdoctoral research at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, India, a position they have held since April 1, 2024.

Citations:

  • Total Citations: 2,808
  • Citations by Documents: 2,210
  • Total Documents: 67
  • h-index: 27

Publication Top Notes:

  • Cinnamon-mediated nano emulsion and its cryogenic activity on ROS-affected human sperm—A short study
    Ranganathan, P., Sridharan, T.B., Babujanarthanam, R., Ganesamoorthy, R., Thirugnanasambandham, K.
    Toxicology Reports, 2024, 13, 101714
    Citations: 0
  • Study on the degradation of dicofol via electrochemical oxidation process: simulation and validation
    Karchiyappan, T., Karri, R.R.
    Advances in Environmental Technology, 2022, 8(1), pp. 1–14
    Citations: 2
  • Protein recovery from sweet potato starch wastewater using modified chitosan
    Karchiyappan, T., Pachaiappan, R.
    Journal of Applied Water Engineering and Research, 2022, 10(4), pp. 340–348
    Citations: 3
  • Studies on treatment of automotive industry wastewater using ozonation, electro-Fenton and chitosan based coagulation process
    Karchiyappan, T.
    Current Research in Green and Sustainable Chemistry, 2022, 5, 100178
    Citations: 5
  • Investigation on the turbidity reduction from wastewater using electroflocculation process and aerobic mixed microbial culture: Modelling and pathway analysis
    Thirugnanasambandham, K.
    Journal of the Indian Chemical Society, 2021, 98(11), 100218
    Citations: 2
  • Preparation and characterization of Azadirachta indica A. Juss. plant based natural coagulant for the application of urban sewage treatment: Modelling and cost assessment
    Thirugnanasambandham, K., Karri, R.R.
    Environmental Technology and Innovation, 2021, 23, 101733
    Citations: 20
  • Treatment of vinasse liquid from sugarcane industry using electro-coagulation/flocculation followed by ultra filtration
    Karchiyappan, T., Delcolle, R.D., Goncalves, G.L., Vareschini, D.T., Gimenes, M.L.
    Polish Journal of Chemical Technology, 2019, 21(4), pp. 40–47
    Citations: 4
  • Dual treatment of milk processing industry wastewater using electro fenton process followed by anaerobic treatment
    Thirugnanasambandham, K., Ganesamoorthy, R.
    International Journal of Chemical Reactor Engineering, 2019, 17(12), 20190074
    Citations: 15
  • A Review On Hydrogen Energy Production From Electrochemical System: Benefits And Challenges
    Karchiyappan, T.
    Energy Sources, Part A: Recovery, Utilization and Environmental Effects, 2019, 41(7), pp. 902–909
    Citations: 31

 

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)

 

 

Btissam ZOUBI | Plant Pathology | AgriExcellence Award

Dr. Btissam ZOUBI | Plant Pathology | AgriExcellence Award

Dr of sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah University, Morocco

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

Profile:

Educational Background 🎓:

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

Professional Experience 🏢:

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

Research Interests:

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

Publication Top Notes:

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

 

Zaryab Murad | Plant Growth | Young Scientist Award

Mr Zaryab Murad |  Plant Growth  |  Young Scientist Award

Ph.D. Scholar at  Huazhong Agriculture University, China

Zaryab Murad, born on April 14, 1996, is a Pakistani national currently residing in Wuhan, Hubei, China. With a solid academic background in Soil and Environmental Sciences, he is pursuing his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) at Huazhong Agriculture University. Zaryab completed both his Master of Sciences (Hons) and Bachelor of Sciences (Hons) in Agriculture at The University of Agriculture Peshawar, Pakistan. His research focuses on the effects of bentonite clay and biochar on soil contamination and plant growth. Professionally, he has served as a Field Survey Project Manager at TAMEER-E-KHALAQ Foundation, where he works towards improving food security and agricultural practices. Additionally, he has held the position of Agriculture Policy Officer at the Agriculture Extension Department in KP, Pakistan. Fluent in Urdu and proficient in English, Zaryab has been recognized for his contributions to the field, including being a Gold Medalist at his alma mater. His technical skills include expertise in MS Office, Endnote, Statistics 8.1, Graphpad, and Sigmaplot.

Profile: 

Education and Training:

Zaryab Murad is a Doctoral candidate in Soil Science at Huazhong Agriculture University, Wuhan, China, with a focus on soil and environmental sciences. He completed his Master of Sciences (Hons) and Bachelor of Sciences (Hons) in Agriculture at The University of Agriculture Peshawar, Pakistan. His research includes the effects of bentonite clay and biochar on soil contamination and plant growth. He has gained hands-on experience with various soil analysis techniques, including using Flame Photometers and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometers.

Work Experience:

Currently, Zaryab is a Field Survey Project Manager at TAMEER-E-KHALAQ Foundation, where he focuses on agricultural development and food security. He has previously served as an Agriculture Policy Officer at the Agriculture Extension Department in KP, Pakistan. His work involves enhancing production, facilitating value addition, and improving crop varieties.

Honors and Awards:

  • Gold Medalist, The University of Agriculture Peshawar, 2022

Certificates and Trainings:

  • Attended workshops and congresses on sustainable soil management and weed science.
  • Participated in the HZAU Happy Festival at Huazhong Agriculture University.

Research Focus: Plant Growth

Zaryab Murad’s research focuses on enhancing plant growth through innovative soil management techniques. His work primarily investigates the effects of soil amendments, such as bentonite clay and biochar, on the phytoavailability of heavy metals and overall plant health. Zaryab’s research aims to improve crop yields and soil fertility while mitigating contamination effects. His studies include evaluating how biochar and other amendments can stabilize heavy metals in soil and enhance the growth of various crops, particularly in contaminated environments. This research contributes to sustainable agricultural practices by improving soil conditions and plant resilience against pollutants.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Murad, Z., Bibi, S., Ahmad, S.E.Y., Manan, U., & Younas, M. (2024). Stabilization of Cd in Soil by Biochar and Growth of Rice (Oryza sativa) in Artificially Contaminated Soil. Sarhad Journal of Agriculture, 40(1), 231–245.
  • Khan, U., Irfan, M., Murad, Z., Waleed, M., & Kamal, A. (2023). Enhancing Lettuce Growth and Cadmium and Lead Tolerance Through Biochar and Bacteria. Gesunde Pflanzen, 75(6), 2685–2696.
  • Ilyas, M., Khan, M.J., Murad, Z., Ullah, A., & Farhan. (2023). Biofortification of Iron in Wheat Varieties Using Different Methods of Application. Gesunde Pflanzen, 75(5), 2177–2185.
  • Murad, Z., Ahmad, I., Waleed, M., Hashim, S., & Bibi, S. (2022). Effect of Biochar on Immobilization of Cadmium and Soil Chemical Properties. Gesunde Pflanzen, 74(1), 151–158.
  • Tariq, M., Khan, M.O., Hussain, A., Khalil, M.K., Muhammad, S., & Murad, Z. (2021). Impact of Soil and Foliar Application of Various Zinc Sources on the Yield and Uptake by Onion Under Agroclimatic Condition of Swat. International Journal of Agricultural and Statistical Sciences, 17, 2363–2376.