Zongying Zhang | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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

Shandong Agricultural University | China

Author Profile

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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


 

Hualiang Zhang | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hualiang Zhang | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Zhejiang University | China

Author Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits ✨

Dr. Hualiang Zhang embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Geographical Sciences from Shenyang University (2008-2012). Following this, he pursued a Master’s degree in Soil Science at Jilin Agricultural University (2012-2015), where he developed a profound interest in soil ecology and microbial interactions. He culminated his formal education with a PhD in Ecology from Northeast Normal University (2015-2018), focusing on the mechanisms of nutrient absorption and utilization in crops, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus dynamics.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Dr. Zhang’s professional career includes a postdoctoral fellowship at Zhejiang University, where he has been actively involved in research since 2021. His work spans ecology, soil ecology, and microbial ecology, with notable expertise in field research and climate change studies. Dr. Zhang has contributed significantly as an assistant researcher and co-supervisor, honing his skills in laboratory experiments and microbial bioinformatics analysis.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Zhang's research focuses on the regulatory effects of rhizosphere microorganisms on nutrient cycling and soil-borne nematode diseases. His studies aim to enhance green agricultural practices by optimizing nitrogen fertilizer use and understanding the interactions between root architecture and microbial communities. His recent work includes exploring root system plasticity, microbial interactions, and phosphorus mobilization in intercropping systems.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Zhang has received multiple awards, including the Excellence Award at the International Symposium on Crop Root and Rhizosphere Interactions. He has contributed to influential publications and participated in significant projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China. His editorial roles in prestigious journals like Plant and Soil and Frontiers in Microbiology underline his academic influence.

Impact and Influence 🌐

Dr. Zhang’s contributions extend beyond academia to practical applications in sustainable agriculture. His research provides a theoretical foundation for reducing nitrogen fertilizer inputs and controlling soil-borne diseases, thereby promoting environmentally friendly farming practices. His involvement in teaching and textbook writing further disseminates his expertise to future generations of scientists.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🕊️

Dr. Zhang’s innovative work in soil and microbial ecology lays the groundwork for sustainable agricultural advancements. As he continues to publish high-impact research and mentor young scientists, his legacy is poised to influence both scientific thought and practical agricultural strategies, contributing to global food security and environmental sustainability.

 

Publications


📄 Synthetic microbial community isolated from intercropping system enhances P uptake in rice

 Author(s): Ma HM, Zhang HC, Zheng CC, Liu ZH, Wang J, Tian P, Wu ZH*, Zhang HL*
 Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences (IF: 4.9, 二区)
 Year: 2024


📄 Cover crop rotation suppresses root-knot nematode infection via structuring soil microbiota
 Author(s): Zhang HL, Guo DS, Lei YT, Lozano-Torres JL, Deng Y, Xu JM, Hu LF
 Journal: New Phytologist (IF: 8.3, 一区)
 Year: 2024


📄 Root system architecture plasticity with beneficial rhizosphere microbes: The known and unknown
 Author(s): Zhang HL, Liu ZL, Zheng CC et al.
 Journal: Microbiological Research (IF: 6.1, 一区) (Major Revision)
 Year: 2024


📄 The relative contributions of pH, organic anions, and phosphatase to rhizosphere soil phosphorus mobilization and crop phosphorus uptake in maize/alfalfa polyculture
 Author(s): Sun BR, Gao YZ, Wu X, Ma HM, Zheng CC, Wang XY, Zhang HL, Li ZJ, Yang HJ
 Journal: Plant and Soil (IF: 4.2, 二区)
 Year: 2020


📄 Maize/alfalfa intercropping enhances yield and phosphorus acquisition
 Author(s): Ma HM, Yu XQ, Yu Q, Wu HH, Zhang HL, Pang JY, Gao YZ
 Journal: Field Crops Research (IF: 5.6, 一区)
 Year: 2023


 

 

Resham Thapa | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Resham Thapa | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

University of Wyoming | United States

Author Profile

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🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Resham Thapa's academic journey is a testament to his interdisciplinary prowess and commitment to scientific inquiry. Beginning with a Bachelor's in Business Studies (B.B.S.) in 2001 from Tribhuvan University, Nepal, he specialized in Financial Management. His academic evolution included a Master in Business Studies (M.B.S.) in 2005 with a focus on Investment and Financial Analysis, where he investigated the financial performance of commercial banks in Nepal. Dr. Thapa's trajectory shifted to international grounds when he pursued an M.A. in NGO Studies in 2010 at Ajou University, South Korea, leveraging an International Student Scholarship. The culmination of his educational endeavors occurred at the University of Wyoming (UW), USA, where he earned an M.S. in Agricultural Economics (2020), delving into the economic feasibility of coal char in agriculture, and a Ph.D. in Soil Sciences (2023) with a dissertation on the impacts of coal char on plant growth and soil properties.

🌟 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Thapa has cultivated a career enriched with research, teaching, and professional collaborations. As a Research Professional at UW's School of Energy Resources (2023–present), he focuses on enhancing soil health and sustainable crop production through innovative soil amendments like coal char and biochar. His role involves designing field experiments, conducting lab analyses, and publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals. Previously, as a Graduate Research Assistant at UW (2015–2023), he spearheaded collaborative projects to address soil nutrient issues and crop yield optimization. His contributions ranged from experimental designs to statistical data analysis using R programming. Earlier in Nepal, he served as a Lecturer in management studies and a Social Mobilization Expert for renewable energy projects, showcasing his adaptability across disciplines.

🌍 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Thapa’s research centers on soil health and sustainable agriculture, particularly through the use of coal-derived soil amendments. His groundbreaking work has explored the effects of coal char and biochar on plant growth, soil water retention, and crop yield, making significant strides in agroecology. His skills span soil microbial analysis, field research, and economic risk analysis, positioning him as a thought leader in soil amendment innovation. He also contributed to earlier projects like Municipal Solid Waste Management (2005–2007), blending environmental science and statistical sampling to optimize waste management systems.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Thapa has garnered numerous awards for his contributions to science and academia. Notable achievements include:

  • 1st Place in the Wyoming Energy Future Symposium Poster Competition (2022).
  • Travel grants to present his research at prestigious international conferences.
  • Academic scholarships from Ajou University and Tribhuvan University for exceptional performance.

He was also awarded the Eldon and Josephine Johnston Family Graduate Fellowship for his outstanding contributions to agricultural research.

🌾 Impact and Influence

Dr. Thapa’s work has profound implications for global agricultural sustainability. His research on coal char and biochar as soil amendments addresses critical challenges in soil degradation, water retention, and crop productivity, especially in semi-arid regions. His publications in reputable journals and conference presentations have advanced the scientific discourse, influencing both academic and agricultural communities. Moreover, his teaching experience in Nepal has inspired future generations, while his collaborative research endeavors at UW have strengthened ties between academia and industry.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a trailblazer in soil amendment research, Dr. Thapa's legacy lies in his multidisciplinary approach and dedication to practical solutions for agricultural challenges. His provisional patent on coal char for soil health and crop yield enhancement exemplifies his innovative mindset. Looking forward, Dr. Thapa aims to expand his research to address global food security, environmental conservation, and sustainable agriculture. His efforts will continue to inspire scientists and policymakers alike, fostering a greener and more sustainable future.

 

Publications


  • 📜 Enhancing Corn Yield and Soil Quality in Irrigated Semiarid Region with Coal Char and Biochar Amendments
    Authors: Thapa, R.B.; Budhathoki, S.; Shilpakar, S.; Panday, D.; Alsunuse, B.; Tang, S.X; Stahl, P.D.
    Journal: Soils
    Year: 2024

  • 📜 Mycorrhizal Fungal Inoculum Potential in Crop Rotation Soil With Different Levels of Irrigation
    Authors: Bouzeriba T. B. Alsunuse, Nasruddeen Al-Awwal, Samir Budhathoki, Resham B. Thapa, Michael Baidoo, Faraj Zaid & Peter D. Stahl
    Journal: Journal of Agricultural Science (JAS)
    Year: 2023

  • 📜 Use of Stratified Cluster Sampling for Efficient Estimation of Solid Waste Generation at Household Level
    Authors: Mohan B. Dangi, Michael A. Urynowicz, Kenneth G. Gerow, and Resham B. Thapa
    Journal: Waste Management & Research
    Year: 2008

  • 📜 An Assessment of Plant Growth and Soil Properties Using Coal Char and Biochar as a Soil Amendment
    Authors: Thapa, R.B.; Coupal, R.H.; Dangi, M.B.; Stahl, P.D.
    Journal: Agronomy
    Year: 2024

  • 📜 Initial Greenhouse Observations on Use of Coal Char as a Soil Amendment: Influences on Plant Growth and Soil Water Holding Capacity
    Authors: Thapa, R.B.; Tang, S.X.; Stahl, P.D.
    Journal: Journal of Dryland Agriculture (JODA)
    Year: 2023

 

Labidi Oumayma | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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


 

Olumayowa Iyanda | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Olumayowa Iyanda | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti | Nigeria

Author Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits

Olumayowa Iyanda embarked on a journey of academic excellence in the field of agriculture, starting with a Bachelor of Agriculture in Plant Physiology and Crop Production from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria, in 2011. This laid the foundation for his keen interest in understanding the intricacies of plant physiology and crop productivity.

Professional Endeavors

His professional journey began as a Research Assistant at Rutesta Technologies in Lagos from 2014 to 2018. During this period, he actively contributed to weed management research by collecting, collating, and analyzing data. Simultaneously, he served as a Teaching Assistant (Demonstrator) at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, where he imparted practical knowledge in various agricultural courses.

Contributions and Research Focus

Olumayowa's research focuses on Crop Physiology, particularly the influence of integrated nutrient sources of nitrogen on the productivity of lowland rice varieties in the derived savannah ecology of Nigeria. His publications reflect his commitment to advancing knowledge in the field, addressing topics such as growth and flowering response to water stress in marigold species and the response of lowland rice varieties to integrated nutrient management.

Accolades and Recognition

While pursuing his Ph.D. in Crop Physiology at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Olumayowa Iyanda received recognition for his impactful work. His dedication to exploring inventive approaches to critical agricultural issues garnered attention and accolades within the academic community.

Impact and Influence

Through his contributions to conferences and journals, Olumayowa has made a positive impact on the agricultural community. His work on the effects of combined nitrogen-nutrient sources on lowland rice straw yield, presented at the International Conference on Sustainable Dairy Production, showcases the practical applications of his research findings.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Olumayowa Iyanda envisions a post-doctorate position, his legacy lies in the knowledge he imparts and the solutions he seeks for real-world problems. His commitment to creating a positive influence on society through innovative approaches to crop physiology positions him as a promising researcher with the potential to contribute significantly to the agricultural landscape.

Notable Publications

Response of lowland rice varieties to integrated nutrient management in a derived Savannah agro- ecology 2023 (1)

Effect of Steeping Duration and Inoculum Concentration on Growth Promotion of Seedlings of Food Crops Primed in Cultures of Bacillus spp from Rhizosphere 2023

INFLUENCE OF INTEGRATED NUTRIENT SOURCES OF NITROGEN ON PHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF LOWLAND RICE VARIETIES IN A DERIVED SAVANNAH ECOLOGY OF NIGERIA  2023

 

 

Mubshar Hussain | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Mubshar Hussain | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Bahauddin Zakariya University | Pakistan

Author Profile 

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Mubshar Hussain, born on November 10, 1978, in Gujranwala, Pakistan, embarked on his academic journey with a strong focus on agronomy. He holds a Ph.D. in Agronomy from the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad (2008), where he delved into the mitigation of moisture stress in sunflower. His early academic achievements, including first positions in school and departmental distinctions, underscored his dedication and excellence.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Hussain's professional trajectory is marked by significant roles, showcasing his commitment to academia. He assumed the position of Professor at the Department of Agronomy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan, in December 2021. Notably, he served as Director at BZU Sub Campus Layyah and contributed as an Assistant Professor, Lecturer, and Visiting Research Fellow at various academic institutions globally.

Contributions and Research Focus

With over fourteen years of expertise in agronomy, conservation agronomy, and allelopathy, Dr. Hussain has left an indelible mark in the field. His research, spanning adaptation of crops to water-limited environments, resource conservation technologies, and non-chemical weed management, is globally recognized. Dr. Hussain's pioneering work in understanding crop responses to water deficits, temperature, and nutrient deficiencies has significantly contributed to the agricultural sciences.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Mubshar Hussain's illustrious career is adorned with numerous accolades, scholarships, and awards. He received research productivity awards consecutively from the Pakistan Council of Science and Technology and achieved distinctions such as the Australian Endeavour Postdoc Fellow. His contributions to hockey at the university level further exemplify his multifaceted achievements.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Hussain's impact is not confined to academia; it extends to the realm of research productivity. With an Author Impact Factor of 210 and over 4110 citations on platforms like Scopus, ISI, and Google, his work has resonated globally. His research on seed enhancement techniques and non-chemical weed management has practical implications for sustainable agriculture.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Mubshar Hussain's legacy is one of excellence, innovation, and dedication to advancing agronomy. As he continues his journey, his focus on crop adaptation, conservation technologies, and sustainable weed management is poised to shape the future of agriculture. His leadership and contributions are paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable agrarian landscape.

Notable Publications

Evaluating the Interactive Impact of Nitrogen Levels and Cultivars on Yield Traits, Nitrogen use Efficiency, Water use Efficiency and Benefit Cost Ratio of Ratoon Rice in Punjab, Pakistan 2024

Weed infestation and productivity of wheat crop sown in various cropping systems under conventional and conservation tillage 2023 (2)

Combined Application of Organic and Inorganic Nitrogen and Seed Inoculation with Rhizobacteria (Stenotrophomonas maltophilia FA-9) Improved Productivity, Nitrogen Use Efficiency, and Economic Returns of Pearl Millet 2023 (1)

Influence of Transgenic (Bt) Cotton on the Productivity of Various Cotton-Based Cropping Systems in Pakistan 2023 (2)

The Influence of Different Crop Mulches on Weed Infestation, Soil Properties and Productivity of Wheat under Conventional and Conservation Production Systems 2023 (4)