Zongying Zhang | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Zongying Zhang | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Shandong Agricultural University | China

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🎓 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

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

Northwest A&F University | China

Author Profile

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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

 

Milene Praça-Fontes | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Milene Praça-Fontes | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

UFES | Brazil 

Author Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Mrs. Milene Miranda Praça-Fontes began her journey in biological sciences at the Federal University of Juiz de Fora, completing her Bachelor's and Licentiate degrees in Biological Sciences in 2003. Her early academic work focused on meiotic characterization and pollen viability in plant species, laying a foundation for her future research in cytogenetics. She further pursued a Master's and Doctorate in Genetics and Plant Breeding at the Federal University of Viçosa, specializing in cytogenetics, chromosomal characterization, and genomic quantification.

Professional Endeavors 🌟

As a professor at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES), Mrs. Praça-Fontes has been instrumental in teaching, research, and administration. She has served as Coordinator of the Graduate Program in Genetics and Plant Breeding (2015–2019) and continues to mentor Master's and Ph.D. students. Her work extends to leading the Cytogenetics and Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory and participating in interdisciplinary research initiatives.

Contributions and Research Focus 🧬

Mrs. Praça-Fontes’ research focuses on:

  • Plant Cytogenetics: Investigating chromosomal behavior and DNA content.
  • Tissue Culture: Developing protocols for plant micropropagation and somatic embryogenesis.
  • Mutagenesis and Toxicity: Analyzing genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of chemical compounds and plant metabolites using bioassays.
    Her contributions have practical implications for plant breeding, ecological conservation, and environmental toxicity assessments.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Mrs. Praça-Fontes has received funding from prestigious organizations such as CNPq and FAPES for her groundbreaking research. She serves as an editorial member for international journals like Frontiers in Plant Science and Frontiers in Genetics and is a sought-after reviewer for numerous scientific publications.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Her work has influenced both academia and practical applications in plant science. Mrs. Praça-Fontes has made significant contributions to the development of sustainable agricultural practices, biodiversity conservation, and innovative methodologies in plant cytogenetics.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Mrs. Praça-Fontes is dedicated to advancing plant genetic research and training the next generation of scientists. Her ongoing projects aim to bridge gaps in sustainable agriculture and ecological restoration, ensuring her work leaves a lasting legacy in the field of plant science.

 

Publications

  • 📝 Phytotoxic and Cytogenetic Assessment of Glycerol Triazole Derivatives in Model Plants and Weeds
    Author(s): Thayllon de Assis Alves, Thammyres de Assis Alves, Poliana Aparecida Rodrigues Gazolla, Ângela Maria Almeida Lima, Mariana Belizario de Oliveira, Danilo Aniceto da Silva, Vagner Tebaldi de Queiroz, Róbson Ricardo Teixeira, Adilson Vidal Costa, Milene Miranda Praça‐Fontes
    Journal: Chemistry & Biodiversity
    Year: 2024
  • 📝 Chemical Composition, Phytotoxic, and Cytogenotoxic Properties of Essential Oils from Psidium cauliflorum and P. acidum (Myrtaceae)
    Author(s): Thammyres de Assis Alves, Aldino Neto Venancio, Thayllon de Assis Alves, Loren Cristina Vasconcelos, Amélia Carlos Tuler, Matheus Alves Silva, Lara Aparecida Nazareth Radael, Luciano Menini, Marcia Flores da Silva Ferreira, Milene Miranda Praça-Fontes
    Journal: Bragantia
    Year: 2024
  • 📝 Drying Temperature Affects the Quantity and Quality of the Essential Oil of Psidium Species and Contributes to Phytotoxicity in Model Plants
    Author(s): Aline dos Santos Bergamin, Isabelly da Silva Izidio, Loren Cristina Vasconcelos, Gustavo Fernandes Mariano, Luiza Alves Mendes, Milene Miranda Praça-Fontes
    Journal: Ciência e Agrotecnologia
    Year: 2024
  • 📝 Influence of Seasonal Variation on the Chemical Composition of Piper amalago Essential Oils and Their Phytocytogenotoxic Activity in Model Plants and Weeds
    Author(s): Loren Cristina Vasconcelos, Aline dos Santos Bergamim, Geisiele Silva Martins, Gustavo Fernandes Mariano, Luiza Alves Mendes, Tatiana Tavares Carrijo, Milene Miranda Praça-Fontes
    Journal: Bragantia
    Year: 2024
  • 📝 Investigation of Cytotoxic Activity and the Chemical Composition by Mass Spectrometry of Polar Extracts from Cissus verticillata Leaves
    Author(s): Augusto Cesar Santos Oliveira, Iasmini Nicoli Galter, Suiany Vitorino Gervasio, Maria do Carmo Pimentel Batitucci, Milene Praca Fontes, Silvia Tamie Matsumoto, Hildegardo Seibert Franca
    Journal: Revista Virtual de Quimica
    Year: 2024

 

 

Labidi Oumayma | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Labidi Oumayma | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Private College and High School Les Pilote, Bizerte | Tunisia

Author profile

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Ms. Labidi Oumayma's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Mathematical Science in 2010 from El KRIB High School, followed by her pursuit of a National Diploma in Applied License in Biotechnology from the Institute Superior of Biotechnology of Béja in 2013. She later earned her Master’s Degree in Research in Biological Sciences in 2015 from the Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte. Her early academic interests were firmly rooted in plant biotechnology and physiology, reflecting her passion for scientific exploration and plant studies.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Ms. Labidi’s professional career is distinguished by her teaching roles, including her position as a lecturer in Plant Physiology at the Faculty of Sciences, Bizerte. She has also served as a teacher of Life and Earth Sciences at various private and public institutions. Her expertise in plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and physiological responses to environmental stresses has been a cornerstone of her academic and teaching career.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Ms. Labidi’s research has focused on the physiological and biochemical traits of plants, especially in response to heavy metal stress. Her work on the hyperaccumulation abilities of Casuarina glauca and the physiological responses of Cucurbita pepo under cadmium stress has significantly contributed to our understanding of metal tolerance in plants. Her expertise in seed dormancy, plant transpiration, and antioxidant enzyme activity reflects her deep involvement in plant cellular and molecular physiology.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Ms. Labidi’s research achievements have been widely recognized. She has received honors at various stages of her academic career, including Very Good Honors for her Applied License in Biotechnology and Highest Honors for her Doctorate in Biological Sciences. Her scientific contributions, particularly her publications in high-impact journals, have earned her a notable place in the scientific community.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Ms. Labidi’s work extends beyond academic publications; she has influenced her students, peers, and the scientific community with her innovative research on plant physiology. Her studies on the antioxidant responses of plants to metal toxicity have practical implications for agriculture and environmental sustainability, making her a valuable contributor to global research in plant sciences.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Ms. Labidi is poised to continue making strides in the field of plant biotechnology and physiology. Her future work promises to deepen our understanding of plant responses to environmental stressors, contributing to more resilient agricultural systems. Her dedication to both research and teaching ensures that her legacy will inspire future generations of scientists.

 

Publications

📄 Impact of Nickel Toxicity on Growth, Fruit Quality, and Antioxidant Response in Zucchini Squash (Cucurbita pepo L.)

 Journal: Plants
Year: 2024
Authors: Labidi Oumayma, Rim Kouki, Saida Hidouri, Hana Bouzahouane, Isabel Caçador, Rosa Maria Perez-Clemente, Noomene Sleimi

📄 Involvement of Abscisic Acid and Jasmonic Acid Biosynthesis-related Genes in Cucurbita pepo L. Tolerance to Trace Metal Stress

Journal: Water, Air, & Soil Pollution
Year: 2023
Authors: Oumayma Labidi, Rim Kouki, Rosa Maria Perez-Clemente, Aurelio Gomez-Cadenas, Noomene Sleimi, Vicente Vives-Peris

📄 Traits Physiologiques, Biochimiques et Déterminisme Génétique de la Tolérance au Contrainte Métallique (Cd, Ni) chez la Courgette (Cucurbita pepo)

Dissertation/Thesis
Year: 2022
Author: Labidi Oumayma

📄 Assessing Growth, Antioxidant Enzymes, and Phytohormone Regulation in Cucurbita pepo under Cadmium Stress

Journal: Food Science & Nutrition
Year: 2021
Authors: Oumayma Labidi, Vicente Vives-Peris, Aurelio Gómez-Cadenas, Rosa M. Pérez-Clemente, Noomene Sleimi