Azadeh Safadoust | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Azadeh Safadoust | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr Azadeh Safadoust, Bu-Ali Sina University, Iran

Dr. Azadeh Safadoust is a distinguished graduate from Iran University of Medical Sciences, holding a Master of Science in Mental Health, where she focused on domestic violence risk prediction using machine learning and social media analysis. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Kharazmi University, graduating with honors. Dr. Safadoust is actively involved in research, having authored several publications on topics such as intimate partner violence and treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder. Her commitment to mental health research is complemented by her leadership roles in student organizations. 🌍📊💻

Publication profile

Orcid

Education 

Dr. Safadoust holds a PhD in Soil Science from Bu Ali Sina University (2011), where she focused on the transport of E. coli and bromide through soil columns, under the supervision of Prof. Ali Akbar Mahboubi. Her educational foundation also includes an MSc in Soil Physics (2005) and a BSc in Agriculture-Soil Science (2001), both from Bu Ali Sina University. This strong academic background underpins her research expertise in soil management and environmental impacts.

Teaching and Supervising Experience 

Since 2011, Dr. Safadoust has served as an Assistant Professor at Bu Ali Sina University, where she teaches various undergraduate and graduate courses related to soil science. Her roles include supervising PhD and master’s theses on advanced topics such as the transport of contaminants through soil and the effects of soil amendments on soil properties. This demonstrates her commitment to fostering the next generation of researchers and her expertise in complex soil science issues. 

Research Contributions 

Dr. Safadoust has authored numerous publications, including journal articles and book chapters, that highlight her research on soil physics, contaminant transport, and soil management practices. Notable publications include: 

  • “Bacterial filtration rates in repacked and weathered soil columns” (2011) in Geoderma. 
  • “Effect of regenerated soil structure on unsaturated transport of Escherichia coli and bromide” (2012) in Journal of Hydrology. 
  • “Least limiting water range as affected by soil texture and cropping system” (2014) in Agricultural Water Management. 

These publications reflect her contributions to understanding the dynamics of soil health and water management, which are crucial for sustainable agricultural practices. 

Publication top notes

Comparison of three models describing bromide transport affected by different soil structure types

Long-term cultivation and landscape position effects on aggregate size and organic carbon fractionation on surface soil properties in semi-arid region of Iran

Temperature effect on the transport of bromide and E. coli NAR in saturated soils

Bromide and lithium transport in soils under long-term cultivation of alfalfa and wheat

Least limiting water range as affected by soil texture and cropping system

Conclusion 

Dr. Azadeh Safadoust’s blend of educational credentials, teaching experience, and significant research contributions make her an exceptional candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her work not only advances academic knowledge in soil science but also has practical implications for agricultural sustainability and environmental management. 

Meng Liu | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Meng Liu | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Ms Meng Liu, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Food Science and Technology, China

Meng Liu is a PhD Joint Student at the University of Liège and the Institute of Food Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS). She holds a Master’s degree from CAAS and a Bachelor’s degree from Inner Mongolia Agricultural University. Her research focuses on extracting natural pectic polysaccharides from peaches, evaluating their structure and immunomodulatory effects. Meng has published several articles, including a comparative study on physicochemical properties of peach gums and the potential of peach gum polysaccharides in β-carotene emulsions. Proficient in data analysis and software like SPSS and Photoshop, she is fluent in English (IELTS score: 6.5). 📚🍑✨

Publication profile

Scopus

Educational Background

Ms. Meng Liu is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Food Science and Technology at the University of Liège and the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) since September 2021. She completed her Master’s degree at CAAS (2018-2021) and earned her Bachelor’s degree from Inner Mongolia Agricultural University (2014-2018). Her strong academic foundation supports her research endeavors in the food science domain.

Language Skills and Technical Proficiency

Meng is proficient in English, with an IELTS score of 6.5. Her job-related skills include expertise in various software applications such as SPSS, Origin, Prism, Simca, Ominic, and Photoshop, along with a strong capability in data analysis. These skills enhance her ability to conduct detailed research and data interpretation.

Research Experience

As a Ph.D. student, Meng focuses on the extraction and characterization of natural pectic polysaccharides from peaches, evaluating their immunomodulatory effects and fermentation characteristics. During her Master’s, she compared the physicochemical characteristics of peach gum from different varieties and explored the emulsifying capacity of peach gum polysaccharides. Her thesis examined the stability of β-carotene emulsions derived from various sources of peach gum, highlighting her proficiency in both theoretical and practical aspects of food science.

Research focus

The research primarily explores the interactions between food matrices and the bioaccessibility of nutrients, particularly focusing on vitamin D3 in beverage systems like juice and liquid milk. It investigates the stability of anthocyanins and carotenoid absorption, emphasizing the effects of different pectin sources and structures. The work also delves into the use of novel materials, such as intelligent films for monitoring food freshness. This research is significant for improving nutritional quality and shelf life in food products, contributing to advancements in food science and technology. 🌿📊

Publication top notes

Effect of different food matrices on the bioaccessibility of vitamin D3 in beverage systems: Comparison between juice and liquid milk

Effect of different pectin sources and structures on the stability of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G)

The M/G ratio of alginate oligosaccharides: The key to enhance the coloration of strawberries

Polygalacturonase treatment affects carotenoid absorption from veggie juice

Purification and characterization of cutinase from Botrytis cinerea and effect on blueberry cuticle

Conclusion

Ms. Meng Liu stands out as a candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her comprehensive education, specialized research experience, and significant contributions to food science. Her innovative work on peach gum polysaccharides not only advances academic knowledge but also has practical implications for the food industry. Her commitment to research and her ability to produce high-quality publications demonstrate her potential to make substantial contributions in her field.

 

Atul K Singh | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Atul K Singh | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof Atul K Singh, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, India

Dr. Atul K. Singh is a dedicated NextGen Sequencing Scientist specializing in assay development and method validation across various sequencing platforms. With expertise in molecular biology, microbiology, and antimicrobial susceptibility, he has led the preparation of proficiency standards for WGS products under GMP guidelines. Dr. Singh previously worked as a Clinical Laboratory Associate in a CLIA laboratory for two years. His strong soft skills include scientific communication and data analysis. Notably, he has developed molecular methods for Preimplantation Genetic Disorder (PGD-Seq) testing and pathogen characterization, with over 30 peer-reviewed publications to his name. 🔬📊📚🌟

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Atul K. Singh earned his PhD in Biotechnology from the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, from July 2004 to May 2010. Prior to that, he completed his M.Sc. in Biotechnology at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, from August 2000 to September 2002. Dr. Singh began his academic journey with a B.Sc. in Chemistry and Botany from Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University, Faizabad, from July 1996 to December 1999. His solid educational background has equipped him with the skills necessary for a successful career in biotechnology and NextGen Sequencing. 🎓🔬🌱📚

Employment

Dr. Atul K. Singh currently serves as a Scientist-Laboratory Supervisor at NextGen Genetics LLC in Santa Carla, California, since October 2023. Previously, he was a Scientist II in R&D at Clear Labs in the San Francisco Bay Area from January 2018 to June 2023. Before that, he worked at the University of Georgia from May 2017 to January 2018 and held two positions at Purdue University: first as a Postdoctoral Research Associate from June 2010 to May 2015 and then as a Research Scientist in Food Science (molecular and diagnostic microbiology) from November 2015 to April 2017. 🔬💼📈🔍

Research Focus

Dr. Atul K. Singh’s research focus centers on the development and application of innovative techniques in microbiology, particularly in NextGen sequencing and pathogen detection. His work includes the use of optical scattering sensors and molecular methods to identify foodborne pathogens like Listeria and Salmonella. Dr. Singh is involved in developing antimicrobial nanoparticles and characterizing biofilms, enhancing food safety through precise detection methods. His contributions extend to understanding antibiotic resistance and improving methodologies for preimplantation genetic testing. With over 30 peer-reviewed publications, his research significantly impacts food safety and microbial diagnostics. 🔬🦠📊🍽️✨

Publication Top Notes

Petri-plate, bacteria, and laser optical scattering sensor

Receptor-targeted engineered probiotics mitigate lethal Listeria infection.

Animal-Use Antibiotics Induce Cross-Resistance in Bacterial Pathogens to Human Therapeutic Antibiotics.

Antilisterial and Antibiofilm Activities of Pediocin and LAP Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles

Rapid detection and differentiation of Staphylococcus colonies using an optical scattering technology.

Conclusion

Dr. Atul K. Singh’s extensive qualifications, impactful research contributions, and commitment to excellence in scientific practices make him an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His achievements are not only noteworthy but also align with the values of innovation and quality that such an award represents

Mahesh Chand Singh | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mahesh Chand Singh |Agricultural and Biological Sciences| Best Researcher Award

Dr Mahesh Chand Singh, Punjab Agricultural University, India

Dr. Mahesh Chand Singh’s comprehensive academic background, research achievements, and ongoing contributions to his field, he is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Academic Qualifications

Dr. Singh holds a Ph.D. in Soil and Water Engineering from Punjab Agricultural University, completed in 2018 with an impressive CGPA of 8.38. His M.Tech. and B.Tech. degrees were also earned from the same institution, showcasing consistent academic performance and a strong foundation in agricultural engineering.

Employment and Research

Currently a permanent Scientist at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Dr. Singh has been involved in significant research projects related to water conservation, geospatial techniques, and soil quality. His research focuses on reservoir capacity loss, water quality assessment, and groundwater recharge, contributing valuable insights into sustainable water resource management.

Honors and Awards

Dr. Singh has received multiple honors, including a University Gold Medal for his Ph.D. research in 2019-2020 and the Best Scientist Award during an international seminar in 2018. His prestigious awards and fellowships underscore his dedication to research excellence.

Publications

Dr. Singh has co-authored multiple peer-reviewed research papers, including notable publications in journals such as Indian Journal of Ecology and Journal of Agricultural Engineering. His work on vegetation monitoring, water stress, and postharvest quality assessment in greenhouse environments demonstrates the practical impact of his research.

Teaching Contributions

With over 13 undergraduate and 6 postgraduate courses taught, Dr. Singh has contributed extensively to education at Punjab Agricultural University. His teaching also extends beyond PAU, where he has taught courses at Mata Gujiri College, further showcasing his expertise and commitment to knowledge dissemination.

Publication Top Notes

Factors affecting the performance of greenhouse cucumber cultivation-a review

Development of a microclimate model for prediction of temperatures inside a naturally ventilated greenhouse under cucumber crop in soilless media

Soilless cucumber cultivation under protective structures in relation to irrigation coupled fertigation management, economic viability and potential benefits-a review

Greenhouse microclimate modeling under cropped conditions-A review

Nutrient and water use efficiency of cucumbers grown in soilless media under a naturally ventilated greenhouse

GIS integrated RUSLE model-based soil loss estimation and watershed prioritization for land and water conservation aspects

A review of three commonly used techniques of controlling greenhouse microclimate

conclusion

Dr. Mahesh Chand Singh’s academic excellence, innovative research, and impactful teaching make him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

 

Gizie Abeje Belay | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Gizie Abeje Belay | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute (EBI), Ethiopia

Gizie Abeje Belay is a dedicated researcher at the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, specializing in biodiversity conservation and crop improvement. With a Master’s degree in Genetics and Breeding from the University of Chinese Academy of Science, he has a solid foundation in agricultural sciences. His expertise includes exploring the genetic potential of field crops, particularly barley and wheat, under biotic and abiotic stress conditions. Gizie has published several peer-reviewed articles, showcasing his contributions to sustainable agriculture. His skills in data analysis and bioinformatics, combined with his experience coordinating research teams, highlight his leadership and collaborative abilities. Actively engaged in professional development, he has participated in numerous workshops and training programs, positioning him as a prominent figure in agricultural research and biodiversity.

Publication profile

ORCID Profile

Education Background

Gizie Abeje Belay has a solid educational background that underscores his expertise in the field of genetics and applied biology. He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Biology from the University of Gondar, Ethiopia, where he completed a retrospective study on malaria prevalence, earning a GPA of 3.18/4.00. He further advanced his studies by pursuing a Master’s degree at the University of Chinese Academy of Science, specializing in Genetics and Breeding. His master’s thesis focused on drought resistance and water-saving strategies in wheat, and he achieved a commendable GPA of 3.67/4.00. This advanced education, combined with his extensive research training, has equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary for conducting significant research in agricultural sustainability and biodiversity conservation.

Research Experience

Gizie Abeje Belay has extensive research experience at the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute (EBI) since March 2013, where he has focused on biodiversity conservation and the characterization and evaluation of field crops for desirable traits, particularly in the context of biotic and abiotic stress. He has developed tools to enhance the accuracy of selected crop lines across various locations, facilitating the validation of farmer varieties for breeding purposes. Gizie has actively coordinated the Holeta research group and served as the field crops case team coordinator, overseeing field experiments and laboratory work. His research efforts have resulted in the publication of several peer-reviewed articles on topics such as drought tolerance in wheat and genetic variability in flax, demonstrating his commitment to advancing agricultural sustainability and food security. Additionally, he has gained experience in data analysis, report writing, and presenting research findings at national and international conferences, further underscoring his contributions to the scientific community.

 

Teaching and Mentoring Experience

Gizie Abeje Belay has gained substantial teaching and mentoring experience throughout his academic and professional journey. As a researcher at the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, he has played a pivotal role in guiding junior researchers and students through various projects, fostering their skills in research methodologies, data analysis, and experimental design. His involvement as a coordinator for the Holeta research group highlights his leadership abilities and commitment to mentoring, where he oversaw field experiments and laboratory work. Additionally, Gizie has participated in numerous training workshops, equipping himself with advanced knowledge and techniques that he imparts to his mentees. His collaborative approach and dedication to nurturing the next generation of scientists reflect his passion for education and capacity to inspire others in the field of agricultural research.

Work Experience

Gizie Abeje Belay has over a decade of experience in research and development, primarily at the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute (EBI) since March 2013. His role has involved extensive work in biodiversity conservation and the characterization and evaluation of field crops, focusing on desirable traits under biotic and abiotic stress conditions. He has contributed to developing tools for improving the accuracy of selected crop lines and has been responsible for coordinating research groups, preparing progress reports, and presenting findings during annual reviews. Gizie also leads the field crops case team, overseeing various projects related to the genetic potential of barley and wheat germplasm and developing dual-purpose flax cultivars. His research efforts include analyzing data and publishing major findings in indexed journals, further establishing his commitment to advancing agricultural sustainability and crop improvement in Ethiopia.

Awards, Honours & Certificates

Gizie Abeje Belay has received several prestigious awards and certificates throughout his academic and professional career, reflecting his dedication to research and professional development. Notably, he was awarded an MSc scholarship at the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he excelled in his studies, achieving a GPA of 3.67/4.00. He has participated in numerous training programs, including a short-term training in gene bank management at the Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, and has received certificates for workshops on advanced bioinformatics, DNA methylation profiling, and climate change policy. Additionally, Gizie has been recognized for his contributions as an invited reviewer for notable journals, further emphasizing his expertise in the field. His continuous engagement in training and research activities demonstrates his commitment to enhancing his skills and contributing to the scientific community.

Publication Top Notes

  • Title: Association of TaD14-4D, a Gene Involved in Strigolactone Signaling, with Yield Contributing Traits in Wheat
    Authors: Ruifang Liu, Jian Hou, Huifang Li, Ping Xu, 张正斌, Xueyong Zhang
    Year: 2021
    Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073748
    Citations: To find the number of citations for this article, you can search it on Google Scholar or databases like Scopus or Web of Science.
  • Title: Physio-Morphological and Biochemical Trait-Based Evaluation of Ethiopian and Chinese Wheat Germplasm for Drought Tolerance at the Seedling Stage
    Authors: Gizie Abeje, 张正斌, Ping Xu
    Year: 2021
    Journal: Sustainability
    DOI: 10.3390/su13094605
    Citations: Again, you can check for citations on platforms like Google Scholar or Scopus.

Conclusion

Gizie Abeje Belay’s impressive research background, demonstrated skills in genetics and crop improvement, and commitment to biodiversity conservation position him as an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to the field, along with his proactive engagement in professional development and collaboration, underscore his potential to make significant impacts in agricultural research. Addressing areas for improvement, particularly in broadening his research impact and enhancing public engagement, will further strengthen his profile as a leading researcher in his field.

 

Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Faculty member at Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran

Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani is a distinguished academic in the Department of Food Science and Technology at Tarbiat Modares University in Tehran, Iran. With a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering (Food Technology) and a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering (Biotechnology), she has held various academic positions, rising to the rank of Professor in 2021. Her research interests include biotechnology in food industries, solid-state fermentation, and the production of microbial enzymes and probiotic foods. An active member of several scientific societies, she has contributed significantly to the field through her extensive publication record, including numerous journal articles focused on food science and biotechnology. Additionally, she serves as a referee for several reputable journals, underscoring her expertise and commitment to advancing research in her field.

Publication profile

Scopus Profile

Educational Background

Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering with a specialization in Food Technology from the University of Tehran, completed in 1989. She pursued her Master of Science in Food Science and Technology at Tarbiat Modares University, graduating in 1991. Further advancing her academic credentials, she earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering with a focus on Biotechnology from Tarbiat Modares University in 2003. This strong educational foundation in food science and biotechnology has equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary for her research and teaching career in the field of food science and technology.

Teaching and Research Experience

Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani has extensive academic experience, having served as an instructor at Tarbiat Modares University since 1993, where she progressed from Assistant Professor to Professor by 2021. Her research interests encompass various aspects of biotechnology and engineering in food industries, including solid-state fermentation, microbial enzyme production, and the application of novel technologies in food processing. She has authored numerous publications in reputable journals, contributing significantly to the fields of food science and biotechnology. Her role as a referee for several scientific journals demonstrates her active engagement in the academic community, while her memberships in various scientific societies highlight her commitment to advancing research in food technology and agricultural engineering.

Publication Top Notes

Conclusion

Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani stands out as a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her extensive academic background, diverse research interests, and significant contributions to food science and technology. Her work has advanced our understanding of critical areas in the field and has the potential to influence both academia and industry. By addressing areas for improvement, she can further enhance her impact and foster a collaborative research environment. Recognizing her with this award would not only honor her contributions but also encourage continued excellence in the field of food science and technology.

Zaobing Zhu | Agricultural Award | Best Scholar Award

Assist Prof Dr. Zaobing Zhu | Agricultural Award | Best Scholar Award

Assist Prof Dr. Zaobing Zhu, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China

Based on the information provided, Zaobing Zhu seems like a strong candidate for the Research for Best Scholar Award. Here’s a detailed evaluation of his suitability:

Publication profile

Academic and Professional Background:

Zaobing Zhu holds a Ph.D. in Biology from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, specializing in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and plant biotechnology. Over the past five years, he has been a Research Scientist at the Laboratory of Plant Developmental Biology Labs, focusing on gene editing and crop improvement. His expertise includes CRISPR-Cas9 technology, DNA sequencing, and biochemistry. With 15 peer-reviewed publications and notable advancements such as novel DNA identification techniques (e.g., Cas-PfLAM, OPERATOR), Zhu’s contributions are highly regarded in his field.

Contributions:

Zaobing Zhu has significantly advanced rapid and ultra-sensitive diagnostic techniques based on CRISPR/Cas systems, enhancing pathogen detection for plant protection. His developed platforms include Cas-PfLAMP, OPERATOR, Cas-OPRAD, SMART, and Cc-qPCR, demonstrating notable improvements in diagnostic performance. His recent invitation to contribute to a review article in TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry highlights his influence in the field of molecular diagnostics.

Publication Top Notes

  • Cas-OPRAD: a one-pot RPA/PCR CRISPR/Cas12 assay for on-site Phytophthora root rot detectionFrontiers in Microbiology, 2024 📄 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1390422
  • One-pot Point-of-Care Nucleic-acid Detection via Padlock DNA Ligation and Rolling Circle TranscriptionResearch Square, 2024 📄 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3996305/v1
  • Recent Progress in Molecular Diagnostics: The Synergy of Rolling Circle Amplification and CRISPR/Cas Systems (2018-2024) – A Concise ReviewTrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry, 2024 📄 DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2024.117902
  • Quadruplex Droplet Digital PCR Assay for Screening and Quantification of SARS-CoV-2International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2024 📄 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158157
  • An ultra-sensitive one-pot RNA-templated DNA ligation rolling circle amplification-assisted CRISPR/Cas12a detector assay for rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2Biosensors and Bioelectronics, 2023 📄 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115179
  • In vitro Argonaute cleavage-mediated quantitative PCR facilitates versatile CRISPR/Cas-induced mutant analysisSensors and Actuators B: Chemical, 2023 📄 DOI: 10.1016/j.snb.2022.132781
    Cited by: 0
  • One Versatile Cas9-Integrated Single-Tube Duplex Quantitative Real-Time PCR System for Rapid Analysis of CRISPR/Cas-Induced MutantsAnalytical Chemistry, 2022 📄 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c01837
  • PAM-free loop-mediated isothermal amplification coupled with CRISPR/Cas12a cleavage (Cas-PfLAMP) for rapid detection of rice pathogensBiosensors and Bioelectronics, 2022 📄 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114076
  • Whole-Genome Sequence of Synthesized Allopolyploids in Cucumis Reveals Insights into the Genome Evolution of AllopolyploidizationAdvanced Science, 2021 📄 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202004222
  • Global profiling of lncRNAs expression responsive to allopolyploidization in cucumisGenes, 2020 📄 DOI: 10.3390/genes11121500

Conclusion:

Zaobing Zhu’s extensive research contributions, notable publications, and innovative advancements in gene editing and molecular diagnostics make him a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Scholar Award. His work not only demonstrates significant academic achievement but also practical applications that advance the field of plant biotechnology.