Shandong Agricultural University | China

Author Profile

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Assist. Prof. Dr. Zongying Zhang embarked on an illustrious academic journey in horticultural sciences at Shandong Agricultural University. He obtained his Bachelor's degree in Horticulture in 2011, laying the foundation for his future research endeavors. His passion for pomology led him to pursue a Doctorate in the same institution, where he specialized in fruit breeding and quality regulation mechanisms. By 2016, he had earned his Ph.D., marking a significant milestone in his academic growth.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Zhang's professional career is deeply intertwined with his alma mater, Shandong Agricultural University. He started as a Lecturer in 2016, dedicating himself to advancing knowledge in fruit breeding and germplasm resource management. After years of impactful teaching and research, he was promoted to Associate Professor in 2024. His career progression reflects his dedication to horticultural science, particularly in pears and apples, where his expertise continues to shape the industry.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Zhang's research primarily focuses on fruit breeding, quality regulation mechanisms, and germplasm resources, with a particular emphasis on apples and pears. His studies have provided invaluable insights into the genetic and biochemical factors influencing fruit quality, storage characteristics, and resistance to abiotic stress. His extensive contributions include analyzing gene families responsible for fruit ripening, softening, and aroma accumulation. His role as a corresponding author in multiple high-impact publications highlights his influence in the field.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Zhang's pioneering research has earned him prestigious accolades. In 2020, he was a key contributor to a project that won the Second Prize for National Technology Invention. His recent recognition as an Advanced Individual in the Provincial Science and Technology Agriculture Development Awards (2024) further underscores his contributions. He has also been actively involved in reviewing and editing for esteemed journals, solidifying his status as a thought leader in horticultural sciences.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Beyond academia, Dr. Zhang’s research has had a profound impact on the agricultural sector, influencing breeding programs and postharvest storage technologies. His work on lignin biosynthesis in pear fruit stone cells and cold tolerance mechanisms in apples has contributed to improving fruit quality and storage longevity. By collaborating with research communities and serving as a guest editor and reviewer for major journals, he has helped shape the future of horticultural research.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Zhang's legacy lies in his relentless pursuit of innovation in pomology. As a Director of the Pear Branch of the Chinese Horticultural Society and an Executive Director of the Shandong Economic Pear Association, he continues to drive advancements in fruit breeding and quality enhancement. His future contributions will likely focus on refining genetic strategies for fruit improvement, furthering sustainability in horticulture, and mentoring the next generation of researchers. His commitment to scientific excellence ensures that his work will leave a lasting impact on the field of horticultural sciences.

Publications

📄Study on the Quality Change and Regulation Mechanism of ‘Shannongsu’ Pear Under Low-Temperature Storage
- Authors: Cong Chen, Sumin Qi, Susu Zhang, Nan Wang, Xuesen Chen, Zongying Zhang
- Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
- Year: 2025

📄Auxin responsive factor MdARF17 promotes ethylene synthesis in apple fruits by activating MdERF003 expression
- Authors: Tong Wang, Jing Zhang, Shuhui Zhang, Nan Wang, Zongying Zhang, Xuesen Chen
- Journal: Plant Cell Reports
- Year: 2024

📄ABIOTIC STRESS GENE 1 mediates aroma volatiles accumulation by activating MdLOX1a in apple
- Authors: Jing Zhang, Yongxu Wang, Susu Zhang, Hongcheng Fang, Zongying Zhang, Xuesen Chen
- Journal: Horticulture Research
- Year: 2024

📄Transcription factor MdbZIP44 targets the promoter of MdPPO2 to regulate browning in Malus domestica Borkh.
- Authors: Jianwen Zhao, Qi Zou, Tiantian Bao, Nan Wang, Zongying Zhang, Xuesen Chen
- Journal: Plant Physiology and Biochemistry
- Year: 2024

📄Analysis of the Postharvest Storage Characteristics of Two New Pear Cultivars ‘Shannongsu’ and ‘Xincixiang’
- Authors: Susu Zhang, Sumin Qi, Bin Li, Nan Wang, Xuesen Chen, Zongying Zhang
- Journal: Horticulturae
- Year: 2023

Guobin Li | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 18/03/202518/03/2025 by Book of Award

Dr. Guobin Li | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Northwest A&F University | China

Author Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Dr. Guobin Li embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in agricultural science. He earned his Ph.D. from Huazhong Agricultural University in 2021, focusing on the intricate molecular mechanisms governing plant development. His doctoral research laid the groundwork for his later contributions to horticultural genomics and plant stress physiology.

Professional Endeavors 🎓

Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Northwest A&F University, Dr. Li is dedicated to unraveling the complexities of tomato fruit development and their responses to environmental stresses. His research delves into temperature and salinity stress tolerance, functional genomics, and the application of biotechnological tools to enhance the resilience of horticultural crops.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Li’s work has significantly advanced our understanding of plant molecular responses. His primary research interests include:

Investigating the molecular pathways governing tomato fruit development and quality traits.
Exploring the genetic and biochemical responses of tomatoes to abiotic stress, including extreme temperatures and salinity.
Applying functional genomics and biotechnology to improve crop yield and stress resilience.

His notable studies have identified key regulatory proteins, such as the chloroplast metalloproteinase L2, that influence ethylene-mediated fruit ripening, and DC1 domain proteins that interact with critical regulatory pathways in flower and root development.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Li’s impactful research has been published in prestigious journals, including Journal of Experimental Botany, New Phytologist, Plant Science, and Environmental and Experimental Botany. His findings on polyamine biosynthesis and ionic homeostasis have provided new insights into improving plant stress tolerance, earning him recognition among plant scientists and biotechnologists.

Impact and Influence 🌍

By bridging molecular biology with practical agricultural applications, Dr. Li’s research contributes to global food security and sustainable agriculture. His studies on stress resilience mechanisms are instrumental in developing climate-resilient tomato varieties, addressing challenges posed by climate change and soil degradation.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Dr. Li’s future endeavors aim to expand the frontiers of plant biotechnology. His work will continue to shape the understanding of plant-environment interactions, with a vision to develop genetically improved crops that thrive under adverse conditions. His contributions hold immense potential for revolutionizing modern horticulture and ensuring agricultural sustainability in the face of environmental challenges.

Publications

📄SlCHP16 promotes root growth and enhances saline-alkali tolerance of tomato
Author(s): Zhen Kang, Xiangguang Meng, Zhijun Fang, Chunyu Shang, Rihan Wu, Junhong Zhang, Xiaohui Hu, Guobin Li
Journal: Environmental and Experimental Botany
Year: 2024

📄The SlWRKY42–SlMYC2 module synergistically enhances tomato saline–alkali tolerance by activating the jasmonic acid signaling and spermidine biosynthesis pathway
Author(s): Xiaoyan Liu, Chunyu Shang, Pengyu Duan, Jianyu Yang, Jianbin Wang, Dan Sui, Guo Chen, Xiaojing Li, Guobin Li, Songshen Hu, et al.
Journal: Journal of Integrative Plant Biology
Year: 2025

📄Genome-Wide Analysis of the DC1 Domain Protein Gene Family in Tomatoes under Abiotic Stress
Author(s): Guobin Li, Jiao Dang, Jiaqi Pan, Jingyi Liu, Tieli Peng, Guo Chen, Rongqun Wang, Songshen Hu, Xiaojing Li, Xiaohui Hu
Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Year: 2023

📄SlGH3.15, a member of the GH3 gene family, regulates lateral root development and gravitropism response by modulating auxin homeostasis in tomato
Author(s): Guobin Li
Journal: Plant Science
Year: 2023

📄Over-expression of spermidine synthase 2 (SlSPDS2) in tomato plants improves saline-alkali stress tolerance by increasing endogenous polyamines content to regulate antioxidant enzyme system and ionic homeostasis
Author(s): Guobin Li
Journal: Plant Physiology and Biochemistry
Year: 2022

Patrick Duncan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Lifetime Achievement Award

Posted on 26/10/202426/10/2024 by Book of Award

Dr. Patrick Duncan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Lifetime Achievement Award

France’s National Centre for Scientific Research | United Kingdom

Author Profile

Google Scholar

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Patrick Duncan's academic journey began with a degree in Zoology from Oxford University, completed in 1970. This foundational training led him to Nairobi University, where he pursued a Ph.D. focusing on the ecology of the antelope Damaliscus lunatus in the Serengeti and Lamu-Garissa District. His early studies in Africa laid the groundwork for his lifelong passion for understanding and conserving ecosystems, particularly herbivore-plant interactions and ungulate behavior.

Professional Endeavors 🌱

In 1985, Dr. Duncan took on the role of director at the Station Biologique de la Tour du Valat in the Camargue, France, where he worked until 1990. Afterward, he joined the CNRS (France’s National Centre for Scientific Research) as a Directeur de recherche, progressing to a DR1 position and later becoming an Emeritus Research Director from 2013 to 2018. His professional path includes significant administrative roles, such as directing the CNRS Chizé Laboratory from 1999 to 2006, and serving as Biodiversity Officer at the Ministère de la Recherche (2007-2010). During this period, he contributed to the negotiations leading up to the UN's decision to create the IPBES (Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services).

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Duncan’s research is centered on herbivore-plant interactions and the sustainable management of diverse ecosystems in Europe and Africa. His work spans the conservation and sustainable use of forests, wetlands, and savannas. His specific interests include exploring resource acquisition's impact on ungulate ecology and behavior, with studies focusing on species such as horses, zebras, and the European roe deer. With over 150 published works, including books, papers, and book chapters, his research has significantly contributed to the scientific understanding of these topics. His editorial involvement with the MDPI Journal Animals further demonstrates his commitment to disseminating ecological knowledge.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Duncan was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2001. In 2018, he received the Ordre du Mérite Agricole, a prestigious honor that highlights his service to agriculture and environmental conservation. His leadership roles also include chairing the IUCN Equid Specialist Group from 1990 to 2000, where he led the first IUCN Equid Action Plan.

Impact and Influence 🌎

Dr. Duncan’s influence extends beyond his research, as he played a pivotal role in establishing the Fondation pour la Recherche sur la Biodiversité (FRB) in 2008. He served as its president from 2011 to 2014 and continues to impact biodiversity conservation as a member of various Scientific Councils, such as the Tour du Valat and the French Global Environment Facility (GEF). His advisory work for France’s Ministère de la Transition Ecologique et Sociale includes leading the Comité d'Experts pour la Gestion Adaptative, which provides guidance on hunting vulnerable bird species.

Legacy and Future Contributions 📜

As an emeritus researcher, Dr. Duncan continues to influence the fields of ecology and conservation. He has mentored numerous students, supervising over eight postdoctoral researchers, 20 doctoral candidates, and various other postgraduate students. His commitment to education includes organizing field courses in the Camargue and Chizé and serving on the Executive of the Tropical Biology Association. Dr. Duncan’s enduring legacy is not only marked by his scientific contributions but also by his dedication to training the next generation of ecologists, ensuring that his work in biodiversity conservation and ecosystem sustainability will continue to inspire and inform future researchers.

Recent Publication

📄 Population limitation of a non‐ruminant in a nutrient‐poor ecosystem—predation rather than food

Authors: Patrick Duncan, Marion Valeix, Andrew J. Loveridge, Sophie Grange, Florian Barnier, Hlengisizwe Ncube, Stéphanie Périquet, Camille Vitet, Zeke Davidson, Moreangels Mbizah, Daphine Madhlamoto, Hervé Fritz, Simon Chamaillé‐Jammes
Journal: African Journal of Ecology
Year: 2024

Ayan Paul | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 18/03/202418/03/2024 by Book of Award

Mr. Ayan Paul | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur | India

Author Profile

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits

Ayan Paul commenced his academic journey with a Bachelor's in Agricultural Engineering from Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, where he displayed exceptional prowess with a CGPA of 8.323. His early education at Air Force School Agra, securing a remarkable 95.20%, laid the foundation for his future academic endeavors.

Professional Endeavors

Throughout his academic career, Ayan delved into various practical experiences, including internships at prestigious institutions like CLAAS India Private Ltd., ICAR- Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, and Odisha Farm Machinery Research and Development Centre. These experiences honed his skills in agricultural machinery design, operation, maintenance, and research.

Contributions and Research Focus

Ayan's M.Tech project on designing an Adjustable Chassis for a Track Type Combine Harvester stands as a testament to his dedication and expertise in the field of farm machinery and power. His B.Tech project, focusing on the field evaluation of Tractor Drawn Groundnut Digger Shaker, showcases his commitment to advancing agricultural practices through innovative solutions.

Accolades and Recognition

Ayan's academic excellence was acknowledged with notable achievements such as securing All India Rank 14 in the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE 2020) and securing All India Rank 64 in ICAR's All India Entrance Examination for Agriculture (AIEEA- UG 2016). These accolades underscore his outstanding capabilities and dedication to his field.

Impact and Influence

Ayan's contributions extend beyond academic achievements, as evidenced by his participation in skill development courses and entrepreneurship programs. His endeavors in remote sensing, GIS in agriculture, food packaging technology, and entrepreneurship development reflect his holistic approach to agricultural engineering and his potential to drive positive change in the field.

Legacy and Future Contributions

With a solid foundation in agricultural engineering, coupled with practical experiences and academic achievements, Ayan Paul is poised to make significant contributions to the field. His focus on innovation and research promises to bring about advancements in farm machinery design, agricultural technology, and sustainable farming practices, leaving a lasting legacy in agricultural engineering and beyond.

Notable Publications

Utilizing Fine-Tuned YOLOv8 Deep Learning Model for Greenhouse Capsicum Detection and Growth Stage Determination 2023 (1)

Tadele Buraka | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Posted on 30/01/202430/01/2024 by Book of Award

Assist Prof Dr. Tadele Buraka | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Addis Ababa University | Ethiopia

Author Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Tadele Buraka Bushasha embarked on a journey of academic excellence, earning a Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Addis Ababa University. His educational journey also includes an MSc in Soil Science from Hawassa University, an MBA in Business Administration from Ashland University, and a BSc with a major in Chemistry and a minor in Mathematics from Dilla University.

Professional Endeavors

With a career spanning over 18 years and 5 months, Dr. Tadele has made significant contributions to academia and administrative roles. He serves as an Associate Professor and Researcher, specializing in soil science, at both Wolaita Sodo and Wachemo Universities. Additionally, he held leadership positions such as Vice President, Dean of Administrative Affairs, and Coordinator for Educational Quality Assurance.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Tadele's contributions extend beyond academia. As Vice President and Coordinator, he played a pivotal role in strengthening industry-university linkages, facilitating quality education, and coordinating agricultural production and market activities. His research interests cover a wide spectrum, including haricot bean, faba bean, soil agricultural potential, and groundwater potential.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Tadele's dedication is recognized through numerous achievements, including his role as a member of the House of the Federation, SNNP Regional Council, and Kembata Tembaro Zonal Council. He has actively contributed to policy analysis, constitution interpretation, and the evaluation of government plans.

Impact and Influence

His influence extends to various committees, task forces, and leadership roles, shaping educational policies and reforms. Dr. Tadele's commitment to nutrition-sensitive agriculture has left a lasting impact on the communities within the university's catchment area.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Tadele's legacy is marked by his commitment to quality education, research, and community service. His leadership roles, research publications, and participation in national and international soil science societies exemplify his dedication. Looking forward, he continues to contribute to agricultural, educational, and environmental areas, armed with skills in computer applications, leadership, and communicative English.

Notable Publications

Assessment of soil erosion risks in response to land-use and land-cover changes in Coka watershed, Southern Ethiopia 2022 (12)