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

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

Gang Hu | Plant Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Gang Hu | Plant Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Dr Gang Hu, Nanning Normal University, China

Dr. Gang Hu is an Associate Professor at Nanning Normal University and an adjunct faculty member at Guangxi University. With a specialization in vegetation ecology and plant geography, Dr. Hu has significantly contributed to our understanding of ecological patterns in subtropical regions. His research has advanced knowledge in plant biodiversity, ecological stoichiometry, and ecosystem management. As an editorial board member for journals like Soil Science and Environment and Subtropical Plant Science, Dr. Hu plays a pivotal role in guiding scholarly publications in his field. He has led multiple research projects, received a second-class Guangxi Science and Technology Progress Award, and has a substantial publication record, including 140 papers and five books. Dr. Hu’s work has not only influenced academic research but also provided practical insights for ecological restoration and forest management.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Research Experience:
    • Dr. Hu has led numerous projects funded by both national and regional foundations, indicating a robust research portfolio. His leadership in ten major projects demonstrates significant expertise and commitment to his field.
  2. Notable Achievements:
    • Receiving a second-class Guangxi Science and Technology Progress Award highlights recognition of his contributions to science and technology.
    • Publishing 140 papers, with 40 indexed in the SCI database, showcases a high level of productivity and impact in his field.
  3. High Citation and H-index:
    • With 1,010 citations and an H-index of 18, Dr. Hu’s work is well-regarded and influential within the academic community.
  4. Books and Patents:
    • Publishing five books and having four patents under process reflects a significant contribution to both theoretical knowledge and practical applications in his field.
  5. Editorial and Collaborative Roles:
    • Serving on the editorial boards of reputable journals and collaborating with prestigious institutions enhances his professional profile and demonstrates leadership within the academic community.
  6. Professional Memberships:
    • His roles as Director of key ecological and geographical societies underscore his active involvement and leadership in his field.
  7. Impactful Research Contributions:
    • His research on vegetation transects and karst ecosystems provides valuable insights into plant diversity and ecological restoration, which have practical implications for forest management and biodiversity conservation.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Increased Interdisciplinary Impact:
    • Expanding research to encompass more interdisciplinary approaches could further enhance the impact and applicability of his findings.
  2. Broader Outreach and Public Engagement:
    • Enhancing efforts in public science communication and outreach could increase the societal impact of his research and raise awareness of his work beyond the academic community.
  3. Increased Funding Diversification:
    • Seeking additional funding sources beyond national and regional foundations could provide more opportunities for large-scale and innovative research initiatives.

Education 

Dr. Gang Hu earned his advanced degrees in the field of plant ecology and geography. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from a renowned university, followed by a Master’s degree in Vegetation Ecology. His academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. focusing on plant geography and ecological patterns. Throughout his education, Dr. Hu developed a keen interest in understanding the interactions between vegetation and environmental factors, which laid the foundation for his subsequent research career. His educational background has provided him with a strong theoretical and practical framework, enabling him to conduct high-impact research and contribute to both academic and applied ecological fields.

Experience 

Dr. Gang Hu has accumulated extensive experience in research and academia. As an Associate Professor at Nanning Normal University and adjunct faculty at Guangxi University, he has been involved in teaching, supervising Master’s students, and conducting high-level research in vegetation ecology and plant geography. Dr. Hu has led over fourteen major research projects funded by national and regional foundations, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China. His role as a member of editorial boards for prominent journals highlights his expertise and leadership in the field. Additionally, Dr. Hu has participated in numerous consultancy and industry-sponsored projects, further demonstrating his ability to apply research findings to real-world ecological and environmental challenges. His collaboration with institutions such as the Chinese Academy of Sciences underscores his commitment to advancing ecological science through interdisciplinary partnerships.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Gang Hu has been recognized for his significant contributions to the field of vegetation ecology and plant geography. Notably, he received the second-class Guangxi Science and Technology Progress Award for his innovative research and contributions to scientific knowledge. This accolade reflects the impact and quality of his work in advancing ecological science. Additionally, Dr. Hu’s extensive publication record, including 140 papers and several books, further highlights his scholarly achievements. His high citation index and H-index underscore the influence and relevance of his research in the academic community. These honors not only acknowledge his research excellence but also his dedication to advancing the field of plant ecology and environmental science.

Research Focus 

Dr. Gang Hu’s research focuses on vegetation ecology, plant geography, and ecological stoichiometry, with particular emphasis on karst ecosystems in subtropical regions. His work explores the patterns and mechanisms of biodiversity maintenance, plant-soil interactions, and ecosystem carbon storage. Dr. Hu has conducted extensive research on vegetation transects across different climatic zones in China, analyzing plant diversity, soil microbial communities, and environmental factors. His studies offer valuable insights into phytogeographical patterns and processes, contributing to the scientific foundation for ecological restoration and forest management. By integrating long-term monitoring and advanced analytical techniques, Dr. Hu’s research aims to understand and address ecological challenges in karst landscapes, enhancing both theoretical knowledge and practical applications in environmental conservation.

Publications

Impact of Different Land Use Types on Bacterial and Fungal Communities in a Typical Karst Depression in Southwestern China 🌿

Effects of Natural Vegetation Restoration on Soil Physicochemical Properties in Tropical Karst Areas, Southwestern China 🌳

Metabolomics Reveals Changes in Soil Metabolic Profiles During Vegetation Succession in Karst Area 🧬

Comparative Genomics Analysis Reveals Genetic Characteristics and Nitrogen Fixation Profile of Bradyrhizobium 🔬

Beta Diversity Patterns and Determinants Among Vertical Layers of Tropical Seasonal Rainforest in Karst Peak-Cluster Depressions 🌲

Community Assembly Along a Successional Chronosequence in the Northern Tropical Karst Mountains, South China 🌏

Ecological Stoichiometric Characteristics of Leaf, Litter, and Soil in Eucalyptus Plantations with Different Ages in Subtropical, South China 🍂

Response of Soil Organic Carbon and Its Fractions to Natural Vegetation Restoration in a Tropical Karst Area, Southwest China 🌍

Responses of Carbon, Nitrogen, and Phosphorus Contents and Stoichiometry in Soil and Fine Roots to Natural Vegetation Restoration in a Tropical Mountainous Area, Southern China 🌱

Study on Composition and Floristic Elements of Aquatic Plants in Karst Wetland, South China 🌾

Conclusion

Dr. Gang Hu is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive research experience, notable achievements, high citation index, and influential contributions to his field make him a strong contender. While there are opportunities for broader interdisciplinary and public engagement, his current accomplishments and ongoing contributions to vegetation ecology and plant geography position him as a leading researcher deserving of recognition.