Malmi Wickramasinghe | Food Science | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Malmi Wickramasinghe | Food Science | Best Researcher Award

National Institute of Fundamental Studies | Sri Lanka

Ms. Malmi Wickramasinghe is a dedicated researcher in Food Science and Technology, holding a First-Class BSc (Hons) degree from Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka and currently completing her MPhil in Food Science and Technology at the University of Peradeniya. With a strong research portfolio in nutritional biochemistry, food analysis, human nutrition, and dietary assessments, she has contributed significantly to understanding food security and clinical nutrition. She has authored research papers, review articles, book chapters, and conference presentations, while also securing a patent for an anti-diabetic soup mix now available in the market. Her work has been recognized with multiple prestigious awards, including the Research Excellence Award (2024) and finalist recognition at the 3MT Thesis Competition (2025). She has collaborated internationally with institutions such as King’s College London and has served as a reviewer for high-impact Q1 journals, demonstrating her academic credibility and leadership in the scientific community. Alongside her research, she mentors undergraduate trainees and contributes actively to scientific associations and conferences. Her research outputs include 29 citations across 5 documents with an h-index of 2, highlighting her growing academic impact and positioning her as a promising young scientist with significant potential for global contributions.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Wickramasinghe, M. A., Nadeeshani, H., Sewwandi, S. M., Rathnayake, I., … (2023). Comparison of nutritional composition, bioactivities, and FTIR-ATR microstructural properties of commercially grown four mushroom species in Sri Lanka; Agaricus bisporus Food Production, Processing and Nutrition, 5(1), 43. Cited by: 25

  • Wickramasinghe, M., Katyana, K., Sewwandi, K., Rathnayaka, I., … (2024). Exploration of antioxidant activities, microstructural properties, and fatty acid composition of three cyanobacteria species. Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology, 56, 103015. Cited by: 5

  • Hiththatiyage, R., Senavirathne, S., Wickramasinghe, M., Rathnayaka, I., … (2025). Nutritional Composition and Bioactive Properties of Four Duckweed Varieties in Sri Lanka.

  • Hiththatiyage, R., Wickramasinghe, M., Rathnayaka, I., Dias, C., … (2025). Biodegradation of mycotoxins using postbiotics. In Postbiotics (pp. 681–701).

  • Wickramasinghe, M., Rathnayaka, I., Hiththatiyage, R., Dias, C., … (2025). Antioxidant activity of postbiotics. In Postbiotics (pp. 469–489).

Chongting Guo | Food Processing | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Chongting Guo | Food Processing | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Chongting Guo, Liaoning University, China

Dr. Chongting Guo is an Associate Professor at the College of Light Industry, Liaoning University, China. With a Ph.D. in Food Science and Engineering from Shenyang Agricultural University, he focuses on food processing, polysaccharides, polyphenols, and food nutrition. He has contributed extensively to food science, with notable publications on antioxidant activity, immunomodulation, and the neuroprotective potential of fruit extracts. Dr. Guo is recognized for his work in food chemistry and its applications in health and nutrition. 🍎📚🔬

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Guo earned his Master’s degree in Processing and Storage Safety of Agricultural Products from Shenyang Agricultural University (2016) and completed his Ph.D. in Food Science and Engineering at the same institution in 2022. His educational background laid a strong foundation in food processing and safety, allowing him to contribute to the advancement of food science, particularly in areas like polysaccharides, polyphenols, and metabolomics. 🎓🍏🔍

Experience

Dr. Guo is currently an Associate Professor at Liaoning University, where he teaches and conducts research in food science. Previously, he worked at the Institute of Food Science, National Research Council of Spain (CIAL, CSIC), and the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences. His academic and research positions have contributed significantly to his expertise in food processing, with a focus on fruit extracts, antioxidants, and immunomodulation. 🏫🌍🔬

Awards and Honors

Dr. Guo has received the First Prize for Information-based Innovative Education and Teaching from Liaoning Province in 2023. He was also recognized as an Outstanding Talent of Shenyang in 2022 and serves as a member of the National Agricultural Products Processing Science and Technology Innovation Alliance. These accolades reflect his outstanding contributions to both research and education in the food science field. 🏆🥇🎉

Research Focus

Dr. Guo’s research focuses on food processing, polyphenols, polysaccharides, and food nutrition, with particular attention to metabolomics. His work explores the extraction, characterization, and biological activities of food components, especially in fruit extracts like peaches. He aims to enhance food safety and health through his studies on antioxidant properties and immunomodulatory effects of natural compounds. 🍓🔬🧑‍🔬

 

Publication Top Notes

Fabrication of sweet potato leaf-derived nanocellulose and its influence on the properties and interactions in peanut protein films

Ternary blend-based film derived from Antheraea pernyi silk sericin, soybean protein isolate, and sodium alginate: Preparation, characterization and antioxidant

 

Hassan Rezaeinia | Food Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hassan Rezaeinia | Food Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hassan Rezaeinia, Research Instaitute of Food Science and Technology of Mashhad, Iran

Dr. Hassan Rezaeinia, born in 1990, is a skilled food scientist and engineer specializing in food nanotechnology. He holds a Ph.D. in Food Science and Engineering from the Research Institute of Food Science and Technology (RIFST), Iran. With extensive research experience, Dr. Rezaeinia focuses on electrospinning, food structure development, and bioactive compound delivery. He is committed to advancing food technologies, particularly in the design and production of fast-dissolving oral films and bio-nanocomposites. His work has been published in high-impact journals, and he is actively involved in both academic and industrial research. 🍽️🔬📚

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Hassan Rezaeinia completed his Ph.D. in Food Science and Engineering at RIFST, Iran (2016-2022). His thesis focused on producing fast-dissolving oral films using electrospinning, specifically comparing release processes in sandwich structures with cyclodextrin carriers. He also holds an M.Sc. in Food Science and Technology from the University of Tehran (2013-2015), where he optimized the spray drying process for date syrup and skim milk. His B.Sc. in Food Science was completed at the University of Ilam, Iran, where he ranked first in his class. 🎓📚👨‍🎓

Experience

Dr. Rezaeinia’s career includes significant roles in both research and industry. He has served as Pasta Sauce R&D Team Leader at Zar Holding (2022–present) and Factory Manager at Hana Sepand Maze Afarin Food and Pharmaceutical Industries Co. (2020-2022). He also worked as a Research and Development Scientist at the same company (2019–2022), specializing in flavor formulation. Additionally, Dr. Rezaeinia has extensive academic experience, including a sabbatical at the University of Tehran, where he contributed to projects involving bioactive compound release and shelf-life extension in food products. 🍝🔬💼

Awards and Honors

Dr. Rezaeinia has achieved significant academic success, including ranking 15th in the national Ph.D. exam in Iran (2018) out of 2536 participants and 73rd in the national M.Sc. exam (2013). He also received the first rank among B.Sc. students in Food Science and Technology at the University of Ilam, Iran. His research contributions have been recognized through various industry-based honors, and he has received funding for his projects, further cementing his position as a prominent figure in food nanotechnology and engineering. 🏆🥇🎖️

Research Focus

Dr. Rezaeinia’s research interests span several cutting-edge areas within food science and technology. He focuses on the development of fast-dissolving oral delivery systems, using nanostructures to enhance the bioavailability of bioactive compounds. His work includes the optimization of electrospinning techniques, nanocomposites, and hydrogels to improve the stability and release of essential oils and other active ingredients in food and pharmaceutical systems. Additionally, he is dedicated to exploring sustainable food preservation methods and the extraction of bioactive compounds from plant and algal sources. 🍃💊🔬

Publication Top Notes

  • Electrohydrodynamic atomization of Balangu (Lallemantia royleana) seed gum for the fast-release of Mentha longifolia L. essential oil – H Rezaeinia, B Ghorani, B Emadzadeh, N Tucker | Cited by: 122 | Year: 2019 🌱💧

  • Sustained release modeling of clove essential oil from the structure of starch-based bio-nanocomposite film reinforced by electrosprayed zein nanoparticles – Z Alinaqi, A Khezri, H Rezaeinia | Cited by: 89 | Year: 2021 🌿🧪

  • Electrospun balangu (Lallemantia royleana) hydrocolloid nanofiber mat as a fast-dissolving carrier for bergamot essential oil – H Rezaeinia, B Emadzadeh, B Ghorani | Cited by: 89 | Year: 2020 🌾🍃

  • Improvements in gelatin cold water solubility after electrospinning and associated physicochemical, functional and rheological properties – B Ghorani, B Emadzadeh, H Rezaeinia, SJ Russell | Cited by: 77 | Year: 2020 💧🔬

  • Enrichment of zein nanofibre assemblies for therapeutic delivery of Barije (Ferula gummosa Boiss) essential oil – M Heydari-Majd, H Rezaeinia, MR Shadan, B Ghorani, N Tucker | Cited by: 63 | Year: 2019 🌿💊

  • Sustained-release modeling of clove essential oil in brine to improve the shelf life of Iranian white cheese by bioactive electrospun zein – S Tayebi-Moghaddam, R Khatibi, S Taklavi, M Hosseini-Isfahani, … | Cited by: 53 | Year: 2021 🧀🌿

  • Prolonged-release of menthol through a superhydrophilic multilayered structure of balangu (Lallemantia royleana)-gelatin nanofibers – H Rezaeinia, B Ghorani, B Emadzadeh, M Mohebbi | Cited by: 51 | Year: 2020 🌱🧴

  • Electrospun plant protein-based nanofibers loaded with sakacin as a promising bacteriocin source for active packaging against Listeria monocytogenes in quail breast – M Heydari-Majd, MR Shadan, H Rezaeinia, B Ghorani, F Bameri, … | Cited by: 15 | Year: 2023 🍗🦠

  • Role of cyclodextrin inclusion complexes assembled in the fast-dissolving structures of electrospun gelatin mats to extend the release of menthol – H Rezaeinia, A Farahmand, B Emadzadeh, M Hosseini-Isfahani, … | Cited by: 7 | Year: 2024 🧴🔄

  • The novel nano-electrospray delivery of curcumin via ultrasound assisted Balangu (Lallemantia royleana) hydrocolloid-chickpea protein interaction – N Aliabbasi, S Mehrabi, M Kheirandish, S Gashtasbi, M Mokhtarian, … |Year: 2025 🌿🍊

Rahim Khan | Food Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rahim Khan | Food Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rahim Khan, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia

Dr. Rahim Khan is a Postdoctoral Researcher in Food Science at Universiti Putra Malaysia with expertise in Functional Foods, Mycology, and Food Microbiology 🍽️🧫. He has led significant projects, including mycoprotein production and aflatoxin biocontrol 🌱. Dr. Khan earned his PhD in Food Science (2021) and holds two MSc degrees, one in Crop Improvement from the University of Nottingham 🌾 and another in Botany from the University of Peshawar 🌿. He has published extensively, including studies on mycotoxins and biocontrol strategies 📚. He is proficient in metagenomics sequencing, chromatographic analysis, and molecular characterization 🔬.

 

Publication profile

Scopus

Orcid

Education 🎓

Dr. Khan holds a PhD in Food Science from Universiti Putra Malaysia (2021) and has completed a Postdoctoral tenure at the same institution. His earlier academic achievements include an MSc in Crop Improvement from the University of Nottingham (2010) and an MSc in Botany from the University of Peshawar (2005), highlighting his solid foundation in biological and agricultural sciences.

Work Experience 👨‍🏫

Currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at Universiti Putra Malaysia (2022-2023), Dr. Khan has led research projects on mycoprotein production using Fusarium venenatum and on the biocontrol of aflatoxins using Aspergillus flavus. His previous experience as a Senior Lecturer of Biology at Qurtuba University further adds to his credibility in academic teaching and supervision.

Research Projects 🔬

Dr. Khan’s completed research projects include notable contributions to mycoprotein production and the characterization of non-aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus, both of which are vital to food safety and innovation in food science.

Awards and Certifications 🏆

Dr. Khan has earned multiple certifications in precision fermentation, PFAS methods development, and laboratory quality control, all demonstrating his ongoing commitment to professional development. His editorial board membership in the International Journal of Nutrition and Food Science further highlights his leadership in the field.

 

Conclusion 💡

Dr. Rahim Khan’s deep involvement in cutting-edge food science research, demonstrated by his significant publications, research leadership, and academic contributions, make him a compelling nominee for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His work on mycoprotein production and aflatoxin biocontrol has important applications in both academic and industrial settings, ensuring his research’s relevance and impact.

 

Publication Top Notes

  • Mycotoxins in Food: Occurrence, Health Implications, and Control Strategies – A Comprehensive Review (1 Citation) – Toxicon, 2024 📅
  • Exploring the Biochemical and Nutra-Pharmaceutical Prospects of Some Thymus Species – A Review (0 Citations) – Chemistry and Biodiversity, 2024 📅
  • A Comprehensive Review of Mycotoxins: Toxicology, Detection, and Effective Mitigation Approaches (4 Citations) – Heliyon, 2024 📅
  • Functional Food and Nutra-Pharmaceutical Potential of Goldenberry (0 Citations) – Handbook of Goldenberry, 2024 📅
  • Mycoprotein as a Meat Substitute: Production, Functional Properties, and Current Challenges – A Review (5 Citations) – International Journal of Food Science and Technology, 2024 📅
  • Aflatoxin Biosynthesis, Genetic Regulation, Toxicity, and Control Strategies: A Review (41 Citations) – Journal of Fungi, 2021 📅
  • Chromatographic Analysis of Aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus Isolated from Malaysian Sweet Corn (6 Citations) – Separations, 2021 📅
  • Co-Inoculation of Aflatoxigenic and Non-Aflatoxigenic Strains of Aspergillus flavus to Assess the Efficacy of Non-Aflatoxigenic Strains in Growth Inhibition and Aflatoxin B1 Reduction (9 Citations) – Agriculture, 2021 📅
  • Biocontrol of Aflatoxins Using Non-Aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus: A Literature Review (40 Citations) – Journal of Fungi, 2021 📅
  • Morphological Characterization and Determination of Aflatoxigenic and Non-Aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus Isolated from Sweet Corn Kernels and Soil in Malaysia (24 Citations) – Agriculture, 2020 📅

Lilian Kaale | Food Science | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Lilian Kaale | Food Science | Women Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer, University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Dr. Lilian D. Kaale is a distinguished Food Scientist and Technologist with a Ph.D. in Food Science and Technology. As the Head of the Department of Food Science and Technology at the University of Dar es Salaam, Dr. Kaale has made significant contributions to food nutrition, safety, and processing. Her dedication to research and education has earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Best Impact Researcher of the Year award for 2022–2023.

Publication Profile

Scopus

 

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Expertise and Impact in Food Science and Technology: Dr. Kaale has extensive experience in Food Science and Technology, with a focus on Food Nutrition, Food Processing (value addition), and Food Safety. Her research has significantly contributed to the advancement of these fields, as evidenced by her numerous publications in both local and international journals. Her work on antimicrobial substances for food preservation and safety highlights her focus on pressing global challenges.
  2. Leadership and Project Management: Dr. Kaale holds a leadership position as the Head of the Department of Food Science and Technology at the University of Dar es Salaam. She has successfully led multiple high-impact research projects funded by reputable organizations such as the World Bank, UNICEF, and UNESCO-IDRC. Her role as Project Investigator on these projects demonstrates her ability to manage and execute complex research initiatives.
  3. Recognition and Awards: Dr. Kaale’s accomplishments have been recognized through prestigious awards, such as the Best Impact Researcher of the Year at her university. This recognition underscores her influence and the practical impact of her research within the academic community and beyond.
  4. International Experience and Collaboration: Dr. Kaale’s participation in international conferences and workshops on Food and Nutrition Security reflects her commitment to global collaboration and knowledge exchange. Her international experience adds significant value to her candidacy for the award.
  5. Publications and Contributions to Knowledge: Dr. Kaale has an impressive publication record, with peer-reviewed articles covering a wide range of topics within Food Science and Technology. Her work, published in reputable journals and books, contributes valuable insights to the field and demonstrates her ongoing commitment to research excellence.
  6. Advisory Roles and Service to Academia: Dr. Kaale serves as a Member of the Agriculture and Food Division Committee, advising on national standards in Tanzania. She is also a Board Member at the School of Engineering and Food Technology at Sokoine University of Agriculture. These roles highlight her influence and commitment to the advancement of food science and technology in her region.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Expansion of Research Areas: While Dr. Kaale’s research is well-focused on Food Nutrition, Safety, and Processing, expanding her research portfolio to include emerging areas such as sustainable food systems, climate-resilient agriculture, or food security in the context of climate change could further enhance her impact and relevance to global challenges.
  2. Broader Dissemination and Outreach: Increasing the dissemination of her research findings to a broader audience, including policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the general public, could amplify the impact of her work. Engaging in more public outreach or policy advocacy could position her as a key thought leader in her field.

 

Education 🎓

Dr. Kaale holds a Ph.D. in Food Science and Technology. Her advanced education has laid the foundation for her expertise in food nutrition, safety, and processing, making her a leading figure in the field.

Experience 👩‍🏫

With over 12 years of experience as a Senior Lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam, Dr. Kaale has supervised numerous Ph.D. and master’s students. Her extensive experience includes leading research projects funded by the World Bank, UNICEF, and UNESCO-IDRC, as well as managing international conferences and workshops on Food and Nutrition Security.

Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Kaale’s research centers on Food Nutrition, Food Processing (value addition), and antimicrobial substances for food preservation and safety. Her work is pivotal in advancing food security and nutrition in Tanzania and beyond.

Awards and Honors 🏆

In the academic year 2022–2023, Dr. Kaale was honored with the Best Impact Researcher of the Year award at the university level, a testament to her significant contributions to her field. She is also recognized for her leadership in various national and international projects.

Publication 📚

Technologies to Decontaminate Aflatoxins in Foods: A Review (2024). International Journal of Food Science and Technology. Link.

Effects of Vacuum Packaging and Chilling Storage on Microbiological Changes of Superheated Steam Dried Sardines (2023). Tanzania Journal of Science. Link.

Investigation on the Suitability of Superheated Steam Dryer for Drying Sardines (2023). Western Indian Ocean Journal of Marine Science. Link.

Nutrition Potential of African Wild Leafy Vegetables (2023). Springer Nature. Link.

Growth with Disparity in a Rich Diverse City (2023). Springer Nature. Link.

Lentil as Nutrient-rich and Versatile Food Legume: A Review (2023). Legume Science. Link.

Determination of Sugars, Amino Acids, pH, and Alcohol in Bamboo Beverage (2023). Tanzania Journal of Science. Link.

Conclusion:

Dr. Lilian D. Kaale is an outstanding candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Her extensive expertise in Food Science and Technology, coupled with her leadership in research and academia, international experience, and significant contributions to knowledge, make her a strong contender. While there are opportunities for expanding her research focus and enhancing outreach efforts, her existing achievements clearly demonstrate her impact and dedication to advancing food science and technology. Dr. Kaale’s work not only enriches the academic community but also contributes to solving critical global challenges in food safety and nutrition.