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

Kamaran Rasul | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Dr. Kamaran Rasul | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer and Researcher, University of Sulaimani, Iraq

Kamaran Salh Rasul, a dedicated academician and researcher in Horticulture and Plant Biotechnology, was born on June 12, 1985, in Sulaimani, Iraq. He holds a significant position as a Lecturer in the Department of Horticulture, College of Agricultural Sciences, University of Sulaimani. Kamaran is multilingual, speaking Kurdish (mother tongue), English, and Arabic fluently. His journey in academia reflects his passion for advancing agricultural sciences, with a focus on innovative solutions to address plant stress and enhance genetic diversity. 🌟

Publication Profile

ORCID

Education 🎓

Kamaran holds a Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture Science from the University of Sulaimani (2008), an MSc in Plant Genetic Manipulation from the University of Nottingham (2013), and a Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology from the University of Sulaimani (2023). His academic pursuits included advanced training in English at the University of Leeds and the University of Nottingham, United Kingdom. His MSc thesis explored self-incompatibility in Petunia hybrida, while his Ph.D. focused on the response of tomato accessions to biotic and abiotic stresses. 📘

Experience 💼

Kamaran commenced his career as an Assistant Researcher in 2009 and steadily rose through academic ranks, becoming a Lecturer in 2023. He has taught courses such as Plant Tissue Culture, Principles of Genetics, Plant Breeding, and Plant Biotechnology. He actively contributes to departmental administration and curriculum development while mentoring MSc students. His international exposure includes participation in conferences and training sessions, showcasing his expertise in agricultural sciences. 🌍

Awards and Honors 🏅

Kamaran has been recognized for his impactful contributions to agricultural sciences. He actively engages with the academic community as a member of the Kurdistan Agricultural Engineers Syndicate and has played key roles in organizing training courses and departmental activities. His achievements reflect his dedication to advancing plant sciences in Kurdistan and beyond. 🏆

Research Focus 🔬

Kamaran’s research centers on plant stress tolerance, including drought, heavy metals, salt, and heat stress. He explores the use of plant extracts and nanoparticles to enhance stress resilience. His interests extend to plant genetics, diversity, molecular breeding, tissue culture, and biotic stress management. Through his work, he aims to innovate sustainable solutions for agricultural challenges and enhance genetic diversity in plants. 🌱

Conclusion 🌟

Kamaran Salh Rasul is an accomplished academic and researcher, making significant strides in agricultural sciences and biotechnology. His dedication to teaching, research, and community engagement showcases his unwavering commitment to addressing global agricultural challenges. 🌍

Publications 📚

Effect of some Plant Extracts and Media Culture on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Moringa oleifera (2020) – Journal of Plant Production, cited by 20.

Genetic diversity and population structure assessment of Iraqi tomato accessions (2022) – Horticulture, Environment, and Biotechnology, cited by 18.

Exogenous application of moringa water extract enhanced barley traits (2022) – Agriculture, cited by 25.

Effects of Oak Leaf Extract and Biofertilizer on Tomato under Water Stress (2022) – Agriculture, cited by 15.

Assessment of genetic variation in Iraqi barley using ISSR markers (2023) – Czech Journal of Genetics and Plant Breeding, cited by 10.

Cadmium tolerance in barley accessions (2023) – Agronomy, cited by 8.

Effect of mixing oak leaf biomass on cadmium toxicity in tomatoes (2023) – Heliyon, cited by 12.

Genetic diversity of reticulated iris accessions in Iraqi Kurdistan (2024) – Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution, cited by 5.

Analysis of genetic diversity in Iraqi durum wheat cultivars (2024) – Kirkuk University Journal of Agricultural Sciences, cited by 3.

 

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.

 

 

 

Soheila Afkar | Medicinal Plants | Women Researcher Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Assist Prof Dr Soheila Afkar | Medicinal Plants | Women Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr Soheila Afkar, Payame Noor University, Iran

Soheila Afkar is a distinguished plant biotechnologist born in Khorramabad, Iran. She currently serves as the Head of the Faculty of Agriculture at Payame Noor University and an Assistant Professor in Plant Breeding. Dr. Afkar’s career spans academic leadership, teaching, and extensive research. Her work focuses on plant genetics, particularly in medicinal plants like peppermint, and she has been involved in various national and international research projects. Her leadership in academia and commitment to advancing plant science make her a notable figure in her field.

Publication Profile

Google scholar

Strengths for the Award

  1. Diverse Educational Background:
    • Dr. Afkar has a robust educational foundation, with degrees spanning from B.Sc. to Ph.D. in relevant fields such as Agronomy, Plant Breeding, and Biotechnology. This diverse academic background indicates a broad understanding of her research domain.
  2. Significant Research Contributions:
    • Her research on peppermint (Mentha piperita) and Festuca arundinacea reflects significant contributions to plant genetics and biotechnology. The detailed studies on gene expression and essential oil composition are valuable to both academic research and practical applications in agriculture.
  3. Recognized Academic Excellence:
    • Dr. Afkar has achieved high ranks in her academic assessments and has been recognized as the top student in her M.Sc. program. These achievements underscore her strong academic prowess and commitment.
  4. Leadership and Teaching Experience:
    • As the Head of the Faculty of Agriculture and an Assistant Professor at Payame Noor University, Dr. Afkar has demonstrated leadership and a commitment to education. Her experience in leading workshops and teaching a wide array of courses adds to her qualifications.
  5. Research and Publication Record:
    • She has an extensive list of publications in reputable journals, reflecting her active research career. Her work covers a range of topics from gene expression to plant physiology, indicating a well-rounded research profile.
  6. Professional Engagement:
    • Her roles as a referee for various conferences and journals show her involvement in the academic community and her contribution to the peer review process.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader International Exposure:
    • While Dr. Afkar has international experience, particularly her sabbatical at the University of Tübingen, increasing collaborative research with international institutions could further enhance her profile and impact.
  2. Interdisciplinary Research:
    • Expanding her research to include more interdisciplinary approaches could strengthen her contributions. For example, integrating aspects of environmental science or biotechnology with her current focus might open new avenues for impactful research.
  3. Grants and Funding:
    • There is no mention of securing significant research grants or funding. Gaining more experience in this area could provide additional resources for her research projects and increase her influence in the field.
  4. Broader Dissemination of Research:
    • While she has numerous publications, exploring more high-impact journals or engaging in broader dissemination channels (e.g., public science outreach) could further raise her profile.

 

Education

Soheila Afkar holds a B.Sc. in Agronomy & Plant Breeding from the University of Lorestan, Iran. She pursued her M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Plant Breeding and Biotechnology, respectively, at the University of Tarbiat Modares, Iran. Additionally, she completed a sabbatical leave in Molecular Biology at the University of Tübingen, Germany. Her doctoral research focused on menthol biosynthesis in peppermint, showcasing her expertise in plant genetics and biotechnology.

Experience

Dr. Afkar has extensive academic and professional experience. She is the Head of the Faculty of Agriculture at Payame Noor University, where she has been instrumental in shaping the agricultural curriculum. She also teaches a wide range of courses, including molecular genetics and plant breeding. Her prior roles include Supervisor Engineer at the Agricultural Organization of Lorestan Province and Executive Head of “Mazrae Gostare Falak”. She has also led workshops on agricultural research tools and techniques.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Afkar has achieved notable recognition throughout her career. She ranked fourth in the Iran Universities M.Sc. Entrance Examination, first in her M.Sc. program, and second in her Ph.D. program. These accolades highlight her exceptional academic performance and dedication to her field. Her achievements underscore her contributions to plant genetics and biotechnology, marking her as a leading researcher and educator.

Research Focus

Dr. Afkar’s research focuses on plant genetics and biotechnology, particularly in medicinal plants like peppermint. Her work includes studying gene expression in response to environmental factors and analyzing essential oil compositions. She has made significant contributions to understanding menthol biosynthesis and genetic diversity in plants. Her research aims to advance plant breeding techniques and improve crop productivity and resilience.

Publication Top Notes

Assessment of variability of lentil genotypes for agronomic traits using multivariate analyses

The study of genetic diversity, heritability and genetic advance of morphological traits, yield and yield components in different chickpea (Cicer arietinum) genotypes

Influence of methyl jasmonate on menthol production and gene expression in peppermint (Mentha X piperita L.)

Evaluation of essential oil composition and antibacterial effect of Mentha longifolia collected from different region of Lorestan province.

Genetic relationships of some mint species using seed storage protein pattern

Conclusion

Soheila Afkar’s qualifications, including her impressive academic achievements, extensive research contributions, and leadership roles, position her as a strong candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Her expertise in plant genetics and biotechnology, coupled with her commitment to education and professional engagement, highlights her significant impact in her field. Addressing areas for improvement, such as increasing international collaborations and securing more funding, could further strengthen her candidacy and amplify her contributions to science.