Romit Seth | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Dr. Romit Seth | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

North Carolina State University | United States

Dr. Romit Seth contributions span advanced plant physiology, stress biology, functional genomics, and transcriptome-driven discovery aimed at understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying plant defense, metabolic biosynthesis, and trait evolution. Investigations into Camellia sinensis have revealed candidate genes associated with blister blight resistance, providing insights into pathogen perception, defense signaling, and transcriptional reprogramming using high-resolution RNA-seq approaches. Spatial transcriptomic analysis in Trillium govanianum identified key regulatory genes involved in the biosynthesis of steroidal saponins, offering a systems-level view of tissue-specific metabolic pathway organization and potential targets for metabolic engineering of high-value phytocompounds. Population genomics studies in carrot uncovered genetic signatures of domestication and improvement, clarifying the evolutionary origin of high-carotenoid orange carrot varieties through genome-wide analyses of selection sweeps, allele diversification, and structural variations linked to pigmentation. Additional transcriptional profiling in purple tea has illuminated the seasonal dynamics of anthocyanin degradation and leaf color transitions, demonstrating how environmental cues modulate pigment biosynthesis, transport, and stabilization pathways. Collectively, this body of research advances the understanding of plant metabolic networks, defense responses, and developmental regulation, while integrating genomics and bioinformatics to support crop improvement, stress resilience, and functional characterization of agriculturally and medicinally important species.

Featured Publications

Jayaswall, K., Mahajan, P., Singh, G., Parmar, R., Seth, R., Raina, A., et al. (2016). Transcriptome analysis reveals candidate genes involved in blister blight defense in tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze). Scientific Reports, 6, 30412. https://doi.org/10.1038/srep30412

Singh, P., Singh, G., Bhandawat, A., Singh, G., Parmar, R., Seth, R., & Sharma, R. K. (2017). Spatial transcriptome analysis provides insights of key gene(s) involved in steroidal saponin biosynthesis in medicinally important herb Trillium govanianum. Scientific Reports, 7, 45295. https://doi.org/10.1038/srep45295

Coe, K., Bostan, H., Rolling, W., Turner-Hissong, S., Macko-Podgórni, A., et al. (2023). Population genomics identifies genetic signatures of carrot domestication and improvement and uncovers the origin of high-carotenoid orange carrots. Nature Plants. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41477-023-01489-y

Kiran Mawale | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Dr. Kiran Mawale | Agricultural and Biological Sciences
| Young Scientist Award

CSIR Central Food Technological Research Institute Mysore | India

Dr. Kiran Mawale’s research focuses on the development, characterization, and application of nanoparticles in plant systems, particularly in enhancing growth, metabolite production, and pest management in Capsicum species. His work integrates nanotechnology with plant biotechnology to explore the modulation of phenylpropanoid pathway metabolites and antioxidant responses using metallic, chitosan-based, and biogenic nanoparticles. He has systematically studied the phytostimulatory and biochemical impacts of nanoparticle formulations on in vitro and ex vitro chilli cultures, demonstrating significant improvements in plant growth, bioactive yield, and resistance to thrips infestation. His research extends to molecular biology through the differential expression analysis of genes associated with pungency and antioxidant activity. By employing advanced characterization techniques such as DLS, Zeta potential, FTIR, XRD, SEM, and TEM, he established structure–function relationships between nanoparticle properties and their biological effects. His interdisciplinary contributions encompass nanoscience, plant cell culture, and metabolite profiling, with a strong emphasis on sustainable, nano-enabled strategies for crop protection and quality enhancement. Collectively, his findings advance the field of agri-nanobiotechnology, offering eco-friendly approaches for improving plant health, productivity, and biochemical fortification.

Featured Publications

Mawale, K. S., Kaila, N. H. J., Halami, P. M., Ramakrishna, C., Singanahalli Shivaramu, M., & Serva Peddha, M. (2025, October 10). Physicochemical and functional characterization of pearl millet-based probiotic beverage for antiaging potential in Caenorhabditis elegans. Foods, 14(20), 3460. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14203460

Raphel, S., & Halami, P. M. (2025, June). Bioactive compounds from food-grade Bacillus. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.13935

Goel, A., & Halami, P. M. (2024, September). Safety assessment of probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MCC5231 and its persistence in gastrointestinal tract. Microbial Pathogenesis, 186, 106824. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106824

Peerzade, I. J., Mutturi, S., & Halami, P. M. (2024, May). Improved production of RNA-inhibiting antimicrobial peptide by Bacillus licheniformis MCC 2514 facilitated by a genetic algorithm optimized medium. Bioprocess and Biosystems Engineering. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00449-024-02998-2

Goel, A., Chauhan, A. S., & Halami, P. M. (2023, December). Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MCC5231 enriched carrot (Daucus carota) nectar: A value-added beverage with enhanced vitamin A. Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization, 17(12), 10205–10216. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11694-023-02104-2

Archer, A. C., Muthukumar, S. P., & Halami, P. M. (2023, October). Correction to: Lactobacillus fermentum MCC2759 and MCC2760 alleviate inflammation and intestinal function in high-fat diet-fed and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Probiotics and Antimicrobial Proteins, 15(5), 1271–1272. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12602-023-10122-1

Prarthana Sharma | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Ms. Prarthana Sharma l Agricultural and Biological Sciences
| Best Researcher Award

University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn | Poland

Dr. Prarthana Sharma’s research focuses on molecular mechanisms regulating hepatic function, gene expression, and hepatoprotection using animal models. Her work integrates cell culture, molecular biology, and pharmacological approaches to understand the interaction between dietary compounds and cellular signaling in liver physiology. She has contributed to advanced investigations on the hepatoprotective effects of medicinal plant extracts such as Silybum marianum (silymarin) and Curcuma longa (turmeric) in mitigating aflatoxin B1-induced liver toxicity, employing both in vivo porcine models and in vitro hepatocyte culture systems. Her research involves microRNA profiling, transcriptomic analysis, and molecular pathway mapping to identify gene regulatory networks responsible for liver protection and regeneration. With expertise in gene expression studies, RNA and DNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, PCR, and real-time PCR, she explores molecular responses to dietary interventions at cellular and systemic levels. Her scientific contributions also include comparative gene expression studies in granulosa cells, linking molecular genetics to reproductive physiology. She actively participates in preclinical research, focusing on toxicokinetics, pharmacokinetics, and drug delivery, contributing to translational approaches in veterinary and biomedical sciences. Through multidisciplinary collaborations, her research aims to advance understanding of nutrigenomics, toxicogenomics, and molecular pharmacology for improving animal and human health.

Featured Publication

Sharma, P., Asediya, V., Kalra, G., Sultana, S., Purohit, N., Kibitlewska, K., Kozera, W., Czarnik, U., Karpiesiuk, K., & Lecewicz, M. (2025). Hepatoprotective effect of Silymarin herb in prevention of liver dysfunction using pig as animal model. Nutrients, 17(20), 3278. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17203278

Gidado M. J | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Dr. Gidado M. J. l Agricultura l and Biological Sciences
| Young Scientist Award

University Malaysia Perlis | Nigeria

Dr. Gidado M. J. is a distinguished researcher in postharvest technology, food innovation, and nanotechnology, with a focus on developing sustainable solutions for fruit quality preservation and food safety. His work integrates green chemistry, biopolymer-based coatings, and hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent nanoemulsions to extend shelf life, control postharvest pathogens, and improve the physiological and biochemical quality of horticultural produce. By combining experimental, computational, and AI-driven approaches, he has advanced understanding of fruit physiology, microbial inhibition, and smart packaging systems. His research contributions include the design of nanobiocomposite films, edible coatings functionalized with bioactive compounds, and intelligent sensing platforms for real-time monitoring of postharvest quality. With over 20 publications in high-impact journals, one patent, and multiple awards for scientific excellence, Dr. Gidado has demonstrated significant impact on sustainable agriculture, circular food systems, and postharvest innovation. His interdisciplinary work bridges academia and industry, fostering eco-friendly technologies, digital biotechnology integration, and knowledge transfer for enhanced food security and preservation practices worldwide.

Profile:  Google Scholar  | Scopus | Orcid | Researchgate | LinkedIn 

Featured Publications

Gidado, M. J., Gunny, A. A. N., Gopinath, S. C. B., Ali, A., Wongs-Aree, C., … (2024). Challenges of postharvest water loss in fruits: Mechanisms, influencing factors, and effective control strategies–A comprehensive review. Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 101249. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jafr.2024.101249

Gidado, M. J., Gunny, A. A. N., Gopinath, S. C. B., Wongs-Aree, C., Yusoff, N. H. A., … (2024). Effect of hydrophobic deep eutectic oil-in-water nano coating on the quality preservation of postharvest ‘Harumanis’ mango. Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, 691, 133818. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colsurfa.2024.133818

Gidado, M. J., Gunny, A. A. N., Gopinath, S. C. B., Wongs-Aree, C., Makhtar, M. M. Z., … (2023). Formulation of selective hydrophobic deep eutectic oil-in-water nanoemulsion as green fungicides for mitigating anthracnose fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Process Biochemistry, 135, 40–49. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.procbio.2023.01.010

Gidado, M. J., Gunny, A. A. N., Sankari, R. S. A., Gopinath, S. C. B., … (2023). Delaying the ripening of banana fruit and increased storage shelf-life using hydrophobic deep eutectic oil (Menthol–Thymol)-In-Water nanoemulsion coating. International Conference on Biomass Utilization and Sustainable Energy, 13–22.

Gidado, M. J., Gunny, A. A. N., Gopinath, S. C. B., Devi, M., Jayavalli, R., Ilyas, R. A. (2025). Challenges in selecting edible coating materials for fruit postharvest preservation and recent advances in edible coating techniques: A review. Journal of Food Science and Technology, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13197-025-07015-4

Pavlo Lykhovyd | Agriculture | Young Scientist Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Dr. Pavlo Lykhovyd | Agriculture | Young Scientist Award

Institute of Climate-Smart Agriculture of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences of Ukraine | Ukraine

Dr. Pavlo Lykhovyd is a distinguished agricultural scientist and leading researcher at the Institute of Climate-Smart Agriculture of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences of Ukraine. With a Doctorate in Agricultural Sciences, he specializes in land reclamation, irrigated and precision agriculture, agroecology, GIS/remote sensing, and AI/ML applications in agriculture. Over the course of his career, he has published more than 400 articles, including over 50 in WoS/Scopus-indexed journals, and contributed to highly cited works in the field. As head of the Council of Young Scientists, Pavlo has led numerous innovative projects on crop production, adaptive technologies, and digital agriculture, including GIS-based remote sensing applications and predictive modeling for irrigation and yield optimization. His work integrates scientific research with practical applications, providing consultancy to private farms and collaborating internationally on crop adaptation studies. Pavlo has authored books on neural networks in agriculture and crop production on reclaimed lands, and holds multiple patents and copyrights for agricultural software, including the Ukraine Crop Production Map and AI-driven irrigation tools. His contributions have advanced agricultural digitalization, resource-efficient irrigation, and agroecological zoning, directly enhancing productivity and sustainability in Ukraine’s steppe regions. Recognized with the President of Ukraine Prize for Young Scientists, he continues to pioneer AI and remote sensing solutions for large-scale crop monitoring, yield prediction, and climate-smart agriculture. Pavlo actively participates as a guest reviewer and editorial board member in international journals, promoting scientific rigor and innovation in modern agronomy. His research bridges traditional agricultural practices with cutting-edge technology, shaping the future of precision farming, sustainable land management, and climate-resilient agricultural systems across Ukraine and beyond.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Vozhehova, R. A., Lavrynenko, Y. O., Kokovikhin, S. V., Lykhovyd, P. V., … (2018). Assessment of the CROPWAT 8.0 software reliability for evapotranspiration and crop water requirements calculations. Journal of Water and Land Development, 147–152.

  • Lykhovyd, P. (2020). Sweet corn yield simulation using normalized difference vegetation index and leaf area index. Journal of Ecological Engineering, 21(3), 34.

  • Lykhovyd, P. (2021). Irrigation needs in Ukraine according to current aridity level. Journal of Ecological Engineering, 22(8), 30.

  • Tyshchenko, O., Tyshchenko, A., Piliarska, O., Kuts, H., & Lykhovyd, P. (n.d.). Evaluation of drought tolerance in alfalfa (Medicago sativa) genotypes in the conditions of osmotic stress. AgroLife Scientific Journal, 9(2).

 

Ivan Abaho | Genetic improvement | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Dr. Ivan Abaho | Genetic improvement | Best Researcher Award

Aquaculture Scientist, National Agricultural Research Organisation, Uganda

Dr. Ivan Abaho is an experienced aquaculture scientist from Uganda with a focus on fish breeding and genetics. He holds a PhD in Fisheries Science from Rhodes University, South Africa, along with an MSc in Zoology (Fisheries and Aquatic Science) and a BSc (Hons) in Fisheries and Aquaculture, both from Makerere University, Uganda. Dr. Abaho also completed a postgraduate diploma in Monitoring & Evaluation from the Uganda Management Institute. Currently, he serves as a Senior Research Officer at the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), where he leads the Animal Resources Research Programme at Bulindi Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute. He is dedicated to advancing agricultural research for development, particularly in aquaculture, through strategic planning, coordination, and evaluation. 🌱🐟

Publication Profile

ORCID

Education

Dr. Abaho’s educational background is comprehensive and diverse. He completed his PhD at Rhodes University, specializing in fisheries science. He also holds a Master’s degree in Zoology with a focus on fisheries and aquatic science from Makerere University, where he also earned his Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Aquaculture. Additionally, he pursued a postgraduate diploma in Monitoring & Evaluation at the Uganda Management Institute. 📚🎓

Experience

With over a decade of experience, Dr. Abaho has developed a strong expertise in managing agricultural research for development, strategic coordination, and monitoring and evaluation. He currently plays a pivotal role at NARO, where he leads the Animal Resources Research Programme, focusing on the advancement of aquaculture in Uganda. His work includes pioneering selective breeding programs for commercial fish species and contributing to agricultural research systems at both local and international levels. 🧑‍🔬💼

Awards and Honors

Dr. Abaho has received numerous accolades and recognitions for his contributions to aquaculture research. He is a member of the World Aquaculture Society and has presented his research at various regional and international conferences. His ongoing work in the field of fish breeding and genetics continues to influence agricultural development in Uganda and beyond. 🌍🏅

Research Focus

Dr. Abaho’s primary research focus is on aquaculture, specifically in the areas of fish breeding and genetics. He works on improving fish production systems, developing selective breeding programs, and investigating sustainable innovations for tilapia production. His research also explores eco-friendly methods for controlling reproduction in tilapia, ensuring food security, and fostering economic growth in Uganda through sustainable aquaculture practices. 🐟🔬

Conclusion

Dr. Abaho’s research and dedication to aquaculture are vital in shaping the future of fisheries and food security in Uganda. Through his leadership, he continues to make significant strides in the aquaculture sector, advancing innovative solutions for sustainable farming practices and contributing to agricultural research globally. 🌱💡

Publications

Selective Breeding for Genetic Improvement of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus Linnaeus, 1758) in Uganda: Current Status, Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Published: 2025 | Journal: Animals
DOI: 10.3390/ani15020142

Implementing Zonal Aquaculture Innovation Platforms in Uganda: Key Lessons Learned
Published: 2024 | Journal: Platforms
DOI: 10.3390/platforms2030007

Effect of Storage Density and Temperature on the Survival and Fatty Acid Profiles of Cyclopoid Copepods
Published: 2024 | Journal: International Journal of Aquaculture
DOI: 10.5376/ija.2024.14.0002

Use of Plant Extracts to Control Reproduction in Tilapia Production Systems: An Emerging Eco-Friendly Innovation
Published: 2023 | Book Chapter: Emerging Sustainable Aquaculture Innovations in Africa
DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-7451-9_7

Dietary Inclusion of Pine Pollen Alters Sex Ratio and Promotes Growth of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus, L. 1758)
Published: 2022 | Journal: Aquaculture Reports
DOI: 10.1016/j.aqrep.2022.101407

The Use of Plant Extracts to Control Tilapia Reproduction: Current Status and Future Perspectives
Published: 2022 | Journal: Journal of the World Aquaculture Society
DOI: 10.1111/jwas.12863

Susan González-Morales | Plant Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Prof Dr Susan González-Morales | Plant Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

Prof Dr Susan González-Morales, CONAHCYT- Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro ,Mexico

Susana González Morales is a prominent Mexican researcher with over 20 years of experience in plant biotechnology and microbiology. Holding a degree in Pharmacobiology with a specialization in Microbiology from Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, a Master’s in Enzymatic Biotechnology, and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Parasitology, Susana’s work primarily focuses on enhancing plant stress tolerance through biotechnological advancements. Her postdoctoral research in Biotechnology at Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila involved studying biotic stress responses in plants. Currently, she serves as a Catedrática CONACYT at Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro, where she investigates the effects of nanoelements on plant nutrition and stress tolerance. Her extensive publication record reflects her contributions to advancing agricultural biotechnology and nanoscience applications in plant growth and health.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award

  1. Diverse and Relevant Research Experience:
    • Broad Expertise: Susana González Morales has a diverse background in various fields such as microbiology, biotechnology, and parasitology. Her research spans from gene detection in food to plant stress responses, showcasing her versatility and ability to tackle complex scientific problems.
    • Innovative Research: Her work on the application of nanomaterials and biostimulants in agriculture is cutting-edge. Publications on topics like the use of iodine for crop biofortification and the impact of nanoparticles on plant growth highlight her role in advancing agricultural biotechnology.
  2. Impressive Academic Background:
    • Strong Educational Foundation: With a solid educational background including a Ph.D. in Parasitología Agrícola and postdoctoral research in Biotechnology, she possesses the advanced knowledge necessary for high-impact research.
    • Publications and Contributions: Her extensive publication record in reputable journals, with contributions to research on plant biostimulants and stress tolerance, underscores her active engagement in advancing scientific knowledge.
  3. Leadership and Professional Experience:
    • Significant Roles: Her experience in leading research labs and coordinating microbiology departments, as well as her role as a catedrática CONACYT, illustrates her leadership and expertise in both academic and practical research settings.
    • Project Management: Involvement in projects like the development of biofertilizers and bioincubators reflects her ability to manage and contribute to large-scale, impactful research initiatives.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Increased Visibility and Outreach:
    • Broader Impact: While her research is highly specialized, there could be more emphasis on how her work influences broader societal and environmental issues. Enhanced visibility through media or public engagement could elevate her contributions beyond academia.
  2. Interdisciplinary Collaborations:
    • Expanded Collaborations: Engaging more with researchers from different fields could further enhance the impact of her work. Interdisciplinary projects might provide new perspectives and applications for her research, especially in translating scientific findings into practical solutions.
  3. Mentorship and Development:
    • Supporting Emerging Researchers: Increasing involvement in mentoring and guiding younger researchers or students could further bolster her profile. Active participation in educational outreach and training could highlight her commitment to nurturing future scientists.

Education

Susana González Morales earned her Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacobiology with a specialization in Microbiology from Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila in 2004. Her undergraduate thesis focused on the detection of transgenic genes and proteins in processed soy foods. She pursued a Master’s in Enzymatic Biotechnology at the same institution, graduating in 2007 with a thesis on the selection of Mucor griseocyanus strains for penicillin acylase production. In 2011, she completed her Ph.D. in Agricultural Parasitology at Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro, with a thesis on the defense response of tomato plants against Fusarium oxysporum using Heliopsis longipes extracts. Her postdoctoral research in Biotechnology at Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila (2012-2014) centered on plant stress tolerance with selenium. This strong educational background underpins her extensive research career in plant biotechnology.

Experience

Susana González Morales boasts a diverse career in research and academia. She started as the Head of Research and Development at BioAgroMex and later coordinated the Microbiology department at Biorganix Mexicana. Her academic roles include teaching at Universidad del Valle de México and serving as an Associate Researcher at Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro, where she contributed to the development of biofertilizers and bioincubators. Since September 2014, she has been a Catedrática CONACYT at Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro, leading projects on plant stress tolerance and nanoelement applications. Her roles have included managing large-scale research projects and contributing to the scientific community through leadership in biotechnology research.

Research Focus

Susana González Morales’s research focuses on enhancing plant stress tolerance and growth through innovative biotechnological methods. Her work explores the application of nanomaterials and biostimulants to improve plant resilience against biotic and abiotic stresses. Key areas of her research include the use of nanoparticles and nanoelements to fortify crops, the development of biofertilizers, and the investigation of plant responses to environmental stressors. Her studies on the impact of nanoelements, such as iodine and copper nanoparticles, on plant health and growth highlight her contributions to advancing agricultural biotechnology. Additionally, she examines the biochemical and molecular mechanisms underlying plant stress responses, aiming to improve crop productivity and sustainability through cutting-edge biotechnological solutions.

Publication Top Notes 

  1. Application of nanoelements in plant nutrition and its impact in ecosystems 🌱🧪
  2. Use of iodine to biofortify and promote growth and stress tolerance in crops 🌾🧪
  3. Nanoparticles and nanomaterials as plant biostimulants 🌟🔬
  4. Effects of chitosan–PVA and Cu nanoparticles on the growth and antioxidant capacity of tomato under saline stress 🍅✨
  5. Chitosan-PVA and copper nanoparticles improve growth and overexpress the SOD and JA genes in tomato plants under salt stress 🍅⚛️
  6. From elemental sulfur to hydrogen sulfide in agricultural soils and plants 🌱💧
  7. The application of copper nanoparticles and potassium silicate stimulate the tolerance to Clavibacter michiganensis in tomato plants 🍅🔬
  8. Selenium and Sulfur to Produce Allium Functional Crops 🌾🔬
  9. Transcriptomics of biostimulation of plants under abiotic stress 🌿🧬
  10. Impact of carbon nanomaterials on the antioxidant system of tomato seedlings 🍅

 

Conclusion

Susana González Morales is a strong candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Her extensive research background, including significant contributions to agricultural biotechnology and plant stress responses, demonstrates her expertise and innovative approach. Her leadership roles and impactful projects further underline her qualifications.To enhance her candidacy, focusing on increasing the visibility of her work and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations could provide additional benefits. Emphasizing her mentorship and commitment to developing future researchers would also strengthen her profile.Overall, her impressive academic achievements, research impact, and professional experience make her a deserving nominee for the award.