Shengze Yan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Mr.Shengze Yan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award 

Assistant Research Fellow at Sanming Academy of Agricultural Sciences | China

Mr. Shengze Yan is an accomplished researcher and Assistant Research Fellow at the Edible Fungi Research Institute of the Sanming Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fujian Province, China, recognized for his significant contributions to agricultural and biological sciences. With a strong academic foundation in agricultural research, his career focuses on advancing edible fungus cultivation and genetic breeding to improve sustainability and productivity in mushroom farming. Since joining the Sanming Academy of Agricultural Sciences, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation by leading and participating in 13 provincial and municipal research projects, including the Science and Technology Plan Project of Fujian Province. His research has resulted in the publication of 15 scientific papers in respected national and international journals, showcasing his expertise in molecular biology, genetic analysis, and fungal physiology. Among his notable achievements is the development and patenting of a novel cultivation method for Stropharia rugosoannulata using fermentation tunnels, a breakthrough that enhances resource efficiency and production yields. His published work, “Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Critical Genes Involved in the Response of Stropharia rugosoannulata to High Temperature and Drought Stress,” highlights his commitment to understanding environmental stress responses in fungi and developing adaptive strategies for sustainable agriculture. Mr. Shengze Yan’s research interests extend to the exploration of genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying fungal adaptation, innovation in cultivation technologies, and the integration of biological research with agricultural applications for climate resilience and food security. His work exemplifies the intersection of science and sustainability, aiming to contribute to global agricultural development and ecological balance. Through his dedication to excellence in research, innovation, and collaboration, Mr. Shengze Yan continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the frontiers of agricultural biotechnology, promoting sustainable food systems, and contributing valuable insights that strengthen the scientific understanding of edible fungi in a rapidly changing world.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications:

Yan, S.; Wang, S.; Zhan, M.; Huang, X.; Xie, T.; Wang, R.; Lu, H.; Luo, Q.; Ye, W. (2025). Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Critical Genes Involved in the Response of Stropharia rugosoannulata to High Temperature and Drought Stress. Current Issues in Molecular Biology.

Zainib Babar | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr.Zainib Babar | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award 

PhD at Shanghai Jiao Tong University | China 

Dr. Zainib Babar is an emerging scholar in agricultural and biological sciences, specializing in plant–microbe interactions, molecular biology, and plant immunity. Her academic foundation includes advanced training in horticulture, molecular genetics, and plant biotechnology, culminating in a doctoral degree from a leading institution where her research focused on identifying and characterizing conserved RxLR effectors of Plasmopara viticola that target host proteins involved in grapevine immune signaling. Her work provides critical insights into the molecular basis of plant resistance, contributing to the development of sustainable strategies for crop protection and productivity improvement. She possesses strong expertise in both experimental and computational biology, including gene cloning, protein purification, quantitative reverse transcription PCR, yeast hybridization, protein modeling, and bioinformatics analysis using R-Studio, Tb-tools, and ITASSER. Her prior research experience includes work on CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing in cotton for viral resistance, reflecting her commitment to addressing global agricultural challenges through genetic innovation. Dr. Zainib Babar has served as a lecturer, sharing her knowledge in biochemistry and molecular sciences, and has participated in numerous international conferences, symposiums, and workshops on plant biotechnology and genomics. Her scholarly output includes publications in reputable journals such as the Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics and Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences, where she has contributed to studies on protein–pathogen interactions and computational drug discovery. She has been recognized with multiple academic awards, including prestigious scholarships for her research excellence and participation in global scientific training programs. With 226 citations by 189 documents, 5 publications, and an h-index of 5, Dr. Zainib Babar demonstrates a growing international reputation for scientific innovation and collaboration. Her research continues to focus on the molecular mechanisms of plant defense and the application of biotechnology to enhance crop resilience and food security. Through her dedication to advancing knowledge at the intersection of molecular biology and agricultural science, she exemplifies the next generation of researchers striving to create sustainable solutions for the global agricultural sector.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications:

Babar, Z., Khan, A., Hussain, A., Liu, J., Wu, W., Fu, P., & Lu, J. A highly conserved oomycete effector PvRxLR15 hijacks Vv14-3-3ω to suppress plant immunity. Horticulture Research.

Babar, Z., Hussain, A., Khan, A., & Lu, J. NLR-driven plant immunity: Mechanisms, regulation, evolution, and application.

Khan, A., Babar, Z., & Lu, J. The LWY motif of PvRxLR111 is required for VvSGT1-mediated resistance in grapevines.

Babar, Z., Khan, M., Zahra, M., Anwar, M., Noor, K., Hashmi, H. F., Suleman, M., & Wei, D.-Q. (2020). Drug similarity and structure-based screening of medicinal compounds to target macrodomain-I from SARS-CoV-2 to rescue the host immune system: A molecular dynamics study. Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, 39(18), 1–15.

Khan, A., Ali, S. S., Khan, M. T., Saleem, S., Ali, A., Suleman, M., Babar, Z., Shafiq, A., Khan, M., & Wei, D.-Q. (2020). Combined drug repurposing and virtual screening strategies with molecular dynamics simulation identified potent inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2 main protease (3CLpro). Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, 39(10), 1–12.

Khan, A., Khan, M., Saleem, S., Babar, Z., Ali, A., Khan, A. A., Sardar, Z., Hamayun, F., Ali, S. S., & Wei, D.-Q. (2020). Phylogenetic analysis and structural perspectives of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase inhibition from SARS-CoV-2 with natural products. Interdisciplinary Sciences: Computational Life Sciences, 12(3), 1–14.

Khan, A., Junaid, M., Li, C.-D., Saleem, S., Hamayun, F., Shamas, S., Ali, S. S., Babar, Z., & Wei, D.-Q. (2020). Dynamics insights into the gain of flexibility by Helix-12 in ESR1 as a mechanism of resistance to drugs in breast cancer cell lines. Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences, 6, 159

Devendra Jain | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Devendra Jain | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award 

Assistant Professor at Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology | India

Dr. Devendra Jain, Assistant Professor of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, India, is a distinguished researcher with a Ph.D. in Science from Rajasthan University, an M.Sc. in Plant Biotechnology from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, and a B.Sc. in Agriculture from Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth. His professional journey reflects a strong commitment to agricultural and biological sciences, with extensive teaching, mentoring, and research experience. Dr. Devendra Jain has specialized in molecular biology, plant biotechnology, microbial biotechnology, and nanobiotechnology, with significant contributions to sustainable agriculture, crop improvement, plant–microbe interactions, and genetic diversity studies. His research interests also extend to nanomaterials, biofertilizers, and bioremediation, where he has innovatively applied molecular tools to address agricultural challenges. he has consistently advanced the frontiers of science and disseminated knowledge globally. His research skills encompass molecular characterization, genetic diversity analysis, microbial biotechnology, nanomaterial synthesis, and advanced biotechnological applications for crop improvement and sustainability. Dr. Devendra Jain has successfully supervised doctoral and postgraduate theses, coordinated research training programs, and managed multiple national and international projects, including collaborations with global institutions. His achievements include patents, invited talks, and recognition as a recipient of prestigious fellowships, best paper awards, and multiple Young Scientist honors at both national and international levels. His leadership extends to serving on editorial boards, academic committees, and professional organizations while also contributing as a coordinator of workshops, conferences, and training initiatives. In conclusion, Dr. Devendra Jain’s outstanding academic background, prolific research output, leadership in collaborative projects, and dedication to agricultural innovation and student mentorship make him a highly deserving candidate for recognition. His work continues to significantly impact sustainable agricultural practices, scientific advancement, and global research collaboration, positioning him as a leader in agricultural and biological sciences with immense potential for future contributions.

Profile:  Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications:

Jain, D., Daima, H. K., Kachhwaha, S., & Kothari, S. L. (2009). Synthesis of plant-mediated silver nanoparticles using papaya fruit extract and evaluation of their antimicrobial activities. Digest Journal of Nanomaterials and Biostructures, 4(3), 557–563.

Singh, A., Jain, D., Upadhyay, M. K., Khandelwal, N., & Verma, H. N. (2010). Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Argemone mexicana leaf extract and evaluation of their antimicrobial activities. Digest Journal of Nanomaterials and Biostructures, 5(2), 483–489.

Upadhyay, S. K., Srivastava, A. K., Rajput, V. D., Chauhan, P. K., Bhojiya, A. A., … Jain, D. (2022). Root exudates: Mechanistic insight of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria for sustainable crop production. Frontiers in Microbiology, 13, 916488.

Singh, P., Chauhan, P. K., Upadhyay, S. K., Singh, R. K., Dwivedi, P., Wang, J., … Jain, D. (2022). Mechanistic insights and potential use of siderophores producing microbes in rhizosphere for mitigation of stress in plants grown in degraded land. Frontiers in Microbiology, 13, 898979.

Jain, D., Shivani, Bhojiya, A. A., Singh, H., Daima, H. K., Singh, M., & Mohanty, S. R. (2020). Microbial fabrication of zinc oxide nanoparticles and evaluation of their antimicrobial and photocatalytic properties. Frontiers in Chemistry, 8, 778.

Jain, D., Kachhwaha, S., Jain, R., Srivastava, G., & Kothari, S. L. (2010). Novel microbial route to synthesize silver nanoparticles using spore crystal mixture of Bacillus thuringiensis. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, 48(11), 1152–1156.

Jain, D., & Kothari, S. L. (2014). Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their application in plant virus inhibition. Journal of Mycology and Plant Pathology, 44(1), 21–24.

Hosein Ahmadi | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Hosein Ahmadi | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award 

Ph.D at University of Tehran | Iran 

Dr. Hosein Ahmadi is a dedicated researcher in horticultural sciences whose work bridges biotechnology, plant breeding and phytochemistry. His expertise centers on medicinal and aromatic plants, with a particular focus on secondary metabolite biosynthesis and genetic regulation in the Lamiaceae family. With advanced bioinformatics skills and a solid foundation in molecular approaches, he has contributed significantly to understanding the genetic and biochemical bases of plant adaptation. His professional journey reflects excellence in both research and academic achievement, underscored by top national rankings, fellowships, and a growing record of publications in prestigious international journals.

Profile:

Orcid

Education:

Dr. Hosein Ahmadi’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Medicinal and Aromatic Plants from the University of Maragheh, where he graduated at the top of his class. He advanced to pursue a Master’s degree in Horticultural Science at the University of Tehran, specializing in medicinal plants, again earning distinction for academic excellence. Building on this foundation, he embarked on doctoral studies at the University of Tehran, focusing on biotechnology and breeding of horticultural crops. Supported by competitive scholarships, his education has combined field expertise, laboratory research, and computational biology, positioning him as a leader in modern horticultural biotechnology.

Experience:

Dr. Hosein Ahmadi has cultivated a rich portfolio of academic and research experiences across diverse domains of plant sciences. His doctoral research has emphasized transcriptomics, small-RNA sequencing, and bioinformatics approaches for dissecting molecular pathways in Thymus species. International exposure, including a sabbatical fellowship at the University of Helsinki, further strengthened his expertise in omics technologies and molecular data analysis. He has contributed as a peer reviewer for globally recognized journals and actively participated in scientific congresses through oral presentations. His career reflects strong collaborations with international research teams, blending experimental horticulture with computational methods to address contemporary challenges.

Research Interest:

Dr. Hosein Ahmadi’s research interests span the molecular mechanisms underpinning plant secondary metabolism, genetic regulation of medicinal traits, and the application of omics tools in horticultural crop improvement. He investigates transcriptional networks, gene-miRNA interactions, and phytochemical diversity in medicinal plants, particularly Thymus species. His expertise extends to de novo transcriptome assembly, genome-wide association studies, and in-silico protein modeling. By integrating plant physiology with advanced bioinformatics, his research aims to identify molecular markers for breeding programs and to optimize phytochemical yields. His overarching goal is to bridge traditional horticulture with modern biotechnological innovations for sustainable agriculture and natural product discovery.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Hosein Ahmadi has been consistently recognized for academic excellence and research distinction. He ranked at the very top in national entrance examinations for both doctoral and master’s programs in horticultural science. His outstanding performance has been rewarded with fellowships, tuition waivers, and national scholarships supporting his academic development. International recognition came through a competitive doctoral fellowship in Finland, which facilitated advanced research collaborations. Additionally, he has been honored for consistently graduating as the top student in his academic cohorts. These honors reflect his intellectual dedication, research excellence, and commitment to advancing horticultural and plant biotechnology sciences.

Publications:

Title: Optimizing an efficient ensemble approach for high-quality de novo transcriptome assembly of Thymus daenensis
Citation: 6
Year of Publication: 2023

Title: Modeling and optimizing concentration of exogenous γ-aminobutyric acid on NaCl-stressed pineapple mint Mentha suaveolens using response surface methodology
Citation: 9
Year of Publication: 2023

Title: Introducing three new fruit-scented mints to farmlands: Insights on drug yield, essential-oil quality, and antioxidant properties
Citation: 24
Year of Publication: 2022

Conclusion:

Dr. Hosein Ahmadi exemplifies a rising scholar whose blend of horticultural expertise, molecular research, and computational skills positions him as a leader in plant biotechnology. His achievements in education, research, and international collaborations demonstrate both intellectual rigor and innovative thinking. With a strong publication record, multiple awards, and recognition for academic excellence, he has made meaningful contributions to the advancement of plant sciences. His dedication to integrating traditional horticultural practices with cutting-edge biotechnology aligns with global priorities in sustainable agriculture and natural product research. Dr. Ahmadi’s career trajectory reflects promise, impact, and continued scholarly excellence.

Maimela Modiba | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Maimela Modiba | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Student at Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, South Africa.

🌱 Maimela Maxwell Modiba is a passionate PhD candidate in Plant Production at the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences. With a solid foundation in crop and soil sciences, he specializes in climate-resilient farming, tillage management, and soil health. 🌾 His experience spans over two years of rigorous research, peer-reviewed publications, and international conference presentations. 📚 A committed mentor and educator, Modiba also brings valuable teaching experience in agricultural sciences. 🌍 He strives to promote sustainable agriculture across South Africa, combining scientific innovation with practical fieldwork. His collaborative spirit and analytical mindset make him a rising star in agro-research. 💡

Professional Profile:

Scopus

Suitability for Best Researcher Award – Maimela Maxwell Modiba

Maimela Maxwell Modiba is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, especially in the early-career category. As a dynamic Ph.D. candidate with a focused research trajectory in climate-resilient agriculture, Modiba has already made notable contributions through peer-reviewed publications, impactful fieldwork, and international conference presentations. His dedication to soil health and sustainable crop production aligns strongly with pressing global agricultural challenges, positioning him as a future leader in agro-environmental science.

🎓 Education and Experience

🎓 Education:

  • 📕 PhD in Plant Production – Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (Expected April 2025)

  • 📗 MSc in Crop Production Engineering – Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (2020)

  • 📘 BSc in Plant Production – University of Limpopo (2018)

💼 Experience:

  • 🧪 Student Researcher (2020–2023) – Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences

    • 🔬 Focus on soil tillage, soil organic carbon, and crop sustainability

    • 🧑‍🏫 Delivered lectures, conducted lab research, and collaborated in multi-person teams

    • 📊 Participated in both publicly and privately funded projects

📈 Professional Development

🧑‍🔬 Maxwell Modiba has demonstrated continued professional growth through hands-on research, academic presentation, and technical training. His participation in multiple international scientific conferences 🌍 highlights his commitment to staying informed and engaged with global agricultural challenges. 📢 He has gained practical experience in designing and conducting field experiments, laboratory analyses, and mentoring students in agricultural sciences. 📘 Additionally, he has honed his communication, planning, and problem-solving skills, contributing to academic teams and curriculum development. 💻 His AVCASA certification and business skills training further enhance his versatility, preparing him for leadership in sustainable agriculture and research innovation. 🌿

🔬 Research Focus Category

🌾 Maimela Maxwell Modiba’s research focus lies in Soil and Crop Production, with a particular emphasis on tillage management, soil health, and climate-resilient farming systems. His work explores the interaction between soil properties and agricultural practices, aiming to improve crop yields and environmental sustainability in sub-Saharan Africa. 🌍 He is especially passionate about conservation tillage and the long-term impact of farming methods on soil biodiversity and productivity. 🪱 His studies include earthworm populations, root growth, and moisture dynamics under varied tillage systems. 🌧️ His research contributes to shaping sustainable agricultural practices amid changing climate conditions. 🌱

🏅 Awards and Honors

  • 🥇 Dean’s Award – Best MSc Student

  • 📜 AVCASA Certificate – Basic Crop Protection

  • 💼 Basic Business Skills Certificate – Professional Development in Agri-business

Publication Top Notes

🌱 Impact of tillage practices and soil texture on soil health and earthworms in the Pannonian region: A comparative study from Austria and Hungary – Applied Soil Ecology (2025)

Conclusion

Though early in his career, Maxwell Modiba’s trajectory is exemplary of a rising research star. His strong scientific foundation, practical impact, and commitment to sustainable farming make him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Recognizing his work at this stage will not only validate his achievements but also motivate further innovations in sustainable agriculture.

Julian Santiago-Moreno | Agricultural | Excellence in Research

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Dr. Julian Santiago-Moreno | Agricultural | Excellence in Research

Research Professor at NSpanish National Research Council (CSIC) Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Spain.

🌍Dr. Julián Santiago Moreno is a distinguished Research Professor at CSIC’s Animal Reproduction Department, specializing in comparative spermatology, cryobiology, and conservation. His pivotal contributions include pioneering sperm cryopreservation techniques for endangered species, establishing germplasm banks for wild and domestic breeds, and leading reproductive programs resulting in the successful birth of giant pandas in captivity. With over 200 peer-reviewed publications, an h-index of 30, and numerous international collaborations, his work bridges academic research and practical conservation efforts. He has secured significant funding, trained 12 Ph.D. students, and serves as an advisor to governments and conservation organizations globally.

Profile👤

Education 🎓

🎓Dr. Moreno began his academic journey with a veterinary degree, followed by a Ph.D., which focused on reproductive physiology. His expertise expanded during his Ph.D. fellowship at INIA and subsequent academic roles, including postdoctoral research at INRA, France. Over his career, Dr. Moreno has contributed to bridging veterinary science and conservation biology, bringing innovative solutions to wildlife and livestock reproductive challenges.🧬🎓

Experience💼

🩺Dr. Moreno’s extensive experience includes leading research teams, developing conservation programs, and advising governments and zoological institutions worldwide on reproductive technologies. His innovative cryopreservation methods have supported the survival of endangered species.👨‍🔬🌍

Research Interests 🔬

🔬Dr. Moreno’s research bridges the gap between fundamental reproductive biology and practical conservation efforts, with achievements like creating Spain’s first national chicken sperm bank and optimizing assisted reproduction techniques for wild animals. 🌿🧪

Awards and Honors 🏆

🏆Dr. Moreno’s accolades highlight his global influence in animal conservation and reproductive technology.Editor, Animal and Spanish Journal of Agricultural Research. Adviser to the Chinese Government on Black Silky Chicken conservation. Multiple international keynote speaker invitations, including at the International Ruminant Reproduction Symposium. Recognition for pioneering cryopreservation of wild and domestic species 🏆🎉

Conclusion 🔚 

Dr. Santiago Moreno’s career exemplifies excellence in reproductive biology and conservation. His pioneering techniques and leadership have significantly advanced biodiversity preservation, particularly for endangered species. While his scientific and professional achievements are remarkable, expanding public engagement and interdisciplinary collaborations would further elevate his contributions. He is an outstanding candidate for the Excellence in Research Award, deserving recognition for his impactful and innovative work.

Publications Top Notes 📚

Effect of exogenous lactoferrin and phosphoglycerate mutase 2 on the cryopreservation of wild ruminant epididymal/ejaculated sperm and testicular tissue

Authors: Santiago-Moreno, J., Peris-Frau, P., Toledano-Díaz, A., Prieto, P., Martínez-Madrid, B.

Citations: 0

Year: 2025

Detection of Androgen Receptors in Spermatozoa of Small Ruminants: A Putative Modulation Pathway for Cryoresistance Through AQP3

Authors: Alba, E., Castaño, C., Toledano-Díaz, A., Rodriguez-Martinez, H., Santiago-Moreno, J.

Citations: 0

Year: 2024

Effective use of artificial insemination as an ex situ conservation method for the capercaillie

Authors: O’Brien, E., Sabater, A.S., Toledano-Díaz, A., Łukaszewicz, E., Santiago-Moreno, J.

Citations: 0

Year: 2024

High cooling rate of 60°C/min around ice nucleation during cryopreservation compromises chicken sperm viability

Authors: Toledano-Díaz, A., Robledo, R., Alba, E., Rauw, W.M., Santiago-Moreno, J.

Citations: 0

Year: 2024

Editorial

Authors: Lorenzo, P.L., Santiago-Moreno, J.

Citations: 0

Year: 2024

The role of TEAD4 in trophectoderm commitment and development is not conserved in non-rodent mammals

Authors: Pérez-Gómez, A., González-Brusi, L., Flores-Borobia, I., Ramos-Ibeas, P., Bermejo-Álvarez, P.

Citations: 1

Year: 2024

PPARG is dispensable for bovine embryo development up to tubular stages

Authors: Pérez-Gómez, A., González-Brusi, L., Flores-Borobia, I., Ramos-Ibeas, P., Bermejo-Álvarez, P.

Citations: 0

Year: 2024

Cooling rate modifies the location of aquaporin 3 in spermatozoa of sheep and goat

Authors: Pequeño, B., Millán de la Blanca, M.G., Castaño, C., Rodriguez-Martinez, H., Santiago-Moreno, J.

Citations: 2

Year: 2024

Thyroxine administration at the end of the rutting season does not affect testosterone secretion or horn growth in the Iberian ibex (Capra pyrenaica)

Authors: Rodríguez-Luis, A., Toledano-Díaz, A., Velázquez, R., Mogedas-Moreno, M., Santiago-Moreno, J.

Citations: 0

Year: 2024

A single administration of carbetocin before electroejaculation increases the insemination doses produced from each ejaculate in rams

Authors: Orihuela, J.C., Freitas-de-Melo, A., Pinto-Santini, L., Silveira, P., Ungerfeld, R.

Citations: 1

Year: 2024