Romit Seth | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

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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

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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

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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

FARIYA ABUBAKARI | Agriculture | Young Scientist Award

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Dr.  Fariya Abubakari  l Agriculture
| Young Scientist Award

Murdoch University | Australia

Dr. Fariya Abubakari, the research focuses on soil fertility, nutrient dynamics, and sustainable agricultural productivity, particularly examining potassium behavior in sandy soils of Southwest Western Australia. Through glasshouse, laboratory, and field experiments, the studies investigate potassium supplying capacity, release kinetics, and leaching behavior under varying soil conditions and management practices. The work evaluates the impact of soil pH, plant presence, and soil texture on potassium losses and employs predictive modeling using Hydrus 1D to simulate potassium leaching patterns. This research provides valuable insights into nutrient availability, soil-plant interactions, and the development of management strategies to enhance nutrient retention and crop yield sustainability in sandy agricultural systems. Additional investigations explore the effects of soil chemical and physical properties on copper distribution and sorption, nitrogen fixation in legume-based systems, and the impact of fertilizer subsidies on productivity in African agricultural zones. The findings contribute to understanding nutrient cycling, soil amendment techniques, and efficient fertilizer use in both tropical and temperate environments. By integrating experimental data with modeling approaches, the research supports evidence-based recommendations for mitigating nutrient leaching, improving soil health, and promoting sustainable resource management in diverse agroecosystems.

Featured Publications

Abubakari, F., & Abubakari, F. (2015). Determinants of household food security and climate change impacts on agriculture in Ghana. Academic Research Journal of Agricultural Science and Research, 3(7), 178–183.

Abubakari, F., Tetteh, F. M., Abubakari, F., Tuffour, H. O., & Aduwu, A. (2016). Strategies for improving nodulation and nitrogen fixation of leguminous crops to enhance production in smallholder farming systems. Journal of Global Agriculture and Ecology, 4(4), 185–190.

Abubakari, F., & Abubakari, F. (2015). Effects of climate changing on food crop production system in Ghana. Academic Research Journal of Agricultural Science and Research, 3(4), 76–79.

Abubakari, F., & Abubakari, F. (2014). Analysis of production and marketing constraints of tomato among rural farmers in Talensi Nabdam District of Upper East Region of Ghana. IJASRT in Environmental and Earth Sciences, 4(1).

Abubakari, F., & Abubakari, F. (2015). Effects of fertilizer subsidy on the yield of crops among rural farmers in Sudan Savannah and Guinea Savannah zones of Ghana. Academic Research Journal of Agricultural Science and Research, 3(4), 80–85.

Abubakari, F., & Abubakari, F. (2014). Effects of awareness of fertilizer subsidy on the yield of crops among rural farmers in Ghana. [Unpublished manuscript].

Abubakari, F., & Abubakari, F. (2015). Farmers’ perception on soil erosion problems and conservation methods among rural farmers in Talensi-Nabdam Districts of Upper East Region of Ghana. Academic Research Journal of Agricultural Science and Research. (Forthcoming).

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

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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

Zahoor Ahmad | Crop Physiology | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zahoor Ahmad | Crop Physiology | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor, University of Central Punjab , Pakistan

Dr. Zahoor Ahmad is an Associate Professor and Campus Coordinator at the University of Central Punjab, Bahawalpur. With a Ph.D. in Crop Physiology from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, he specializes in crop productivity under abiotic stresses. He also completed post-doctorate research at Cukurova University, Turkey. Dr. Ahmad’s primary focus is improving crop resilience to environmental stressors such as drought, salinity, and heat. His career spans various prestigious institutions, contributing significantly to agricultural sciences.

Publication Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Dr. Zahoor Ahmad holds a Ph.D. in Crop Physiology from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, completed in 2015, where his thesis focused on maize responses to phosphorus under drought stress. He also completed an M.Sc. (Hons.) in Agronomy/Crop Physiology in 2011, and a B.Sc. (Hons.) in the same field in 2009, both from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad. His post-doctorate research took place at Cukurova University, Turkey, in 2020, focusing on crop stress physiology.

💼 Experience

Dr. Zahoor Ahmad’s academic career includes serving as an Assistant Professor and Head of the Botany Department at the University of Central Punjab, Bahawalpur, since 2020. He also conducted post-doctoral research at Cukurova University, Turkey. He has taught at institutions like The Islamia University of Bahawalpur and Allama Iqbal College, Bahawalpur. Previously, he worked as Assistant Professor at the Cholistan Institute of Desert Studies, enhancing his expertise in crop stress research.

🏆 Awards & Honors

Dr. Zahoor Ahmad has earned recognition for his contributions to crop physiology and agricultural research. His work has garnered attention in various journals, leading to multiple invitations for collaborations and international conferences. His innovative approaches to improving crop resilience under abiotic stress conditions have been appreciated by academic peers, making him a notable figure in his field. His research has been widely cited, reflecting his significant impact in agricultural sciences.

🔍 Research Focus

Dr. Zahoor Ahmad’s research aims to understand the physiological limitations to crop productivity under abiotic stresses. His work explores the use of macro and micronutrients to improve crop resilience. Focused on identifying key morphological, physiological, and biochemical traits for stress tolerance, he examines the potential of foliar applications in alleviating drought, salinity, and heavy metal stresses in crops. His research contributes to advancing agricultural productivity and sustainability in challenging environments.

Publication Top Notes

  • Enhancing the Physiological and Biochemical Potential of Praecitrullus fistulosus L. through Synergistic Action of Biochar and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

    • Authors: S., Sana, A., Binyamin, M., Ramzan, G.D., Ávila-Quezada, E.F., Abd-Allah
    • Year: 2024

  • Modulating Physiological and Antioxidant Responses in Wheat Cultivars via Foliar Application of Silicon Nanoparticles (SiNPs) Under Arsenic Stress Conditions

    • Authors: Z.A., Ahmad, R., Younis, T., Ahmad, H.F., Alharby, H., Alsamadany
    • Citations: 1
    • Year: 2024

  • Silicon-Mediated Improvement in Maize (Zea mays L.) Resilience: Unrevealing Morpho-Physiological, Biochemical, and Root Attributes Against Cadmium and Drought Stress

    • Authors: A., Sabir, E.A., Waraich, M.S.A., Ahmad, Z.A., Ahmad, S., Bibi
    • Citations: 4
    • Year: 2024

  • Improving Alkaline Stress Tolerance in Maize through Seed Priming with Silicon Nanoparticles: A Comprehensive Investigation of Growth, Photosynthetic Pigments, Antioxidants, and Ion Balance

    • Authors: H., Alsamadany, H.F., Alharby, Z.A., Ahmad, Y.M., Alzahrani, A.A., Almaghams
    • Year: 2024

  • Integration of Plant Hormones in the Biological System as an Opportunity for Sustainable Crop Production (Book Chapter)

    • Authors: F., Karabulut, M., Faizan, D., Rasheed, G., Unnisa, A., Faraz
    • Year: No specific year mentioned

  • Perspectives of Nanoparticles as Priming Agents for Amelioration of Abiotic Stresses in Crops (Book Chapter)

    • Authors: Z.A., Ahmad, E.A., Waraich, M.A., Iqbal, S., Ahmed, S., Bano
    • Year: No specific year mentioned

  • Prospects of Nanotechnology for Abiotic and Biotic Stresses Amelioration in Field Crops (Book Chapter)

    • Authors: Z.A., Ahmad, E.A., Waraich, C., Barutçular, M.S.A., Ahmad, S., Bano
    • Year: No specific year mentioned

  • Effect of Form of Silicon and the Timing of a Single Foliar Application on Sugar Beet Yield

    • Authors: A., Siuda, A., Artyszak, D., Gozdowski, Z.A., Ahmad
    • Year: 2024

  • Ecofriendly Management of Insect Pests for Sustainable Agriculture (Book Chapter)

    • Authors: A., Abbasi, A., Asif, Z.A., Ahmad, A., Saleha, Z., Zafar
    • Citations: 2
    • Year: No specific year mentioned

 

Soumela Savvidou | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Soumela Savvidou |Agricultural| Best Researcher Award

Researcher At.Research Institute of Animal Science- Hellenic Agricultural Organisation -ELGO DEMETER,Greece

Dr. Soumela Savvidou is an accomplished researcher with a well-documented track record in sustainable animal nutrition and feed innovation. Her contributions through patents, high-quality publications, and academic chapters reflect a career dedicated to addressing global challenges in food production and animal welfare. With her interdisciplinary expertise and commitment to sustainability, Dr. Savvidou is a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile:

Orcid

Education:

Under Graduate Degrees .B.Sc. in Animal Production: Technological Educational Institute of Thessaloniki (2003), Grade: 7.3. Thesis focused on teaching aids for software use in Microsoft Excel and Access.B.Sc. in Rural Development: Democritus University of Thrace, Specialization in Agricultural Economics and Agricultural Business Administration (2022), Grade: 7.71. Thesis on Local Development and Cooperatives.Master’s degree ( M.sc) Animal Nutrition: University of Plymouth, U.K. (2005). Thesis investigated the impact of mineral content in calf milk replacer on E. coli transfer in calves.ph.D.Animal Nutrition and Biosecurity: University of Plymouth, U.K. (2009). Thesis involved selecting a Lactobacillus strain with probiotic properties for poultry production.

Experience: