Prof. Dr. Mehdi Nasr Esfahani – Molecular Biology and Biotechnology – Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Mehdi Nasr Esfahani - Molecular Biology and Biotechnology - Best Researcher Award

Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO) - Iran

AUTHOR PROFILE 

ORCID 

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 🎓

Prof. Dr. Mehdi Nasr Esfahani's academic journey began with his passion for agriculture and molecular plant pathology. Born in Isfahan, Iran, he pursued a Ph.D. in Agriculture, specializing in Molecular Plant Pathology and Biotechnology. His academic foundation laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in plant science, where he developed an immense expertise in crop protection and molecular biology. His studies became the cornerstone for his distinguished career in agricultural research and education.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 💼

Dr. Nasr Esfahani has made significant strides in both academic and executive roles. As a full professor at the Research and Education Center for Agriculture and Natural Resources in Isfahan, he has demonstrated exemplary leadership in advancing agricultural science. Throughout his career, he has led over 80 research projects at provincial and national levels, including his role as the head of the Isfahan Agriculture and Natural Resources Research Publications Council. Additionally, his position as the head of various departments, such as Plant Protection Research and the Isfahan University of Science and Applied Sciences, underscores his commitment to fostering growth in the agricultural sector.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS 🌱

Dr. Nasr Esfahani’s research has significantly impacted the field of agriculture, particularly in plant pathology and biotechnology. His scientific work includes the publication of over 239 valid domestic and international papers, with numerous contributions in top-tier journals. His research focuses on agricultural biotechnology, plant diseases, and enhancing crop protection Molecular Biology and Biotechnology systems, with particular emphasis on improving plant resistance. His work on the development of novel approaches to tackling plant diseases has positioned him as a key figure in the global agricultural research community.

ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION 🏆

Prof. Dr. Nasr Esfahani has received multiple prestigious accolades throughout his career. Notably, he was among the top 2% most cited scientists globally in 2022. He has been recognized as the Top Iranian National Researcher multiple times, from 1998 to 2015. Additionally, his contributions to Isfahan’s agricultural research community have earned him recognition as the top Molecular Biology and Biotechnology researcher for various years. His substantial H-index of 22 and the publication of 12% of his papers in the world’s top 10% journals further solidify his place as a leading researcher in his field.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌍

Dr. Nasr Esfahani’s work extends beyond the academic realm, with a profound influence on both local and international agriculture. His research has played a pivotal role in shaping plant protection and biotechnology strategies, influencing national agricultural policies and research agendas. His active participation in international organizations such as the International Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Association of Plant Diseases and the African-Asian Nematology Association demonstrates his commitment to global collaboration. Additionally, his role in supervising over 60 master's and doctorate theses has contributed to the development of future generations of researchers and professionals in the field.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🔮

As a dedicated educator and researcher, Prof. Dr. Nasr Esfahani has built a legacy that continues to inspire advancements in agricultural biotechnology and plant pathology. His supervision of numerous graduate theses and the publication of seven specialized books and ten extension booklets reflect his commitment to knowledge dissemination. Moving forward, he is expected to continue influencing agricultural research, particularly in the areas of crop disease management, biotechnology, and sustainable agriculture practices. His leadership in both academic and executive roles promises ongoing contributions to the field of agriculture, ensuring the growth and evolution of research in this vital area.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

  • Title: Assessing genetic diversity and population structure of Iranian melons (Cucumis melo) collection using primer pair markers in association with resistance to Fusarium wilt
    Author(s): Sadeghpoor, Neda; Gharneh, Hosseinali Asadi; Nasr-Esfahani, Mehdi; Khankahdani, Hamed Hassanzadeh; Golabadi, Maryam
    Journal: Functional Plant Biology
    Year: 2023
    DOI: 10.1071/FP22131
  • Title: Biochemical defense mechanism associated with host-specific disease resistance pathways against Rhizoctonia solani AG3-PT potatoes canker disease
    Author(s): Soheili-Moghaddam, Bita; Nasr-Esfahani, Mehdi; Mousanejad, Sedigheh; Hassanzadeh-Khankahdani, Hamed; Karbalaie-Khiyavie, Houssein
    Journal: Planta
    Year: 2023
    DOI: 10.1007/S00425-022-04039-2
  • Title: Transcriptome-based analysis of resistance mechanisms to Bipolaris sorokiniana, a common wheat root-rot disease
    Author(s): Qalavand, F.; Nasr-Esfahani, M.; Vatandoost, J.; Azarm, D. A.
    Journal: Plant Biology
    Year: 2023
    DOI: 10.1111/PLB.13470
  • Title: An IPM plan for early blight disease of potato Alternaria solani sorauer and A. alternata (Fries.) Keissler
    Author(s): Nasr-Esfahani, Mehdi
    Journal: Archives of Phytopathology and Plant Protection
    Year: 2022
    DOI: 10.1080/03235408.2018.1489600
  • Title: Antioxidant enzymes associated with resistance to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. melonis race 1.2 in melon
    Author(s): Sadeghpour, Neda; Asadi-Gharneh, Hossein Ali; Nasr-Esfahani, Mehdi; Khankahdani, Hamed Hassanzadeh; Golabadi, Maryam
    Journal: Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology
    Year: 2022
    DOI: 10.1016/J.PMPP.2022.101880

Prof. K. Nagaraj – Biochemistry – Outstanding Scientist Award

Prof. K. Nagaraj - Biochemistry - Outstanding Scientist Award

National Forensic Sciences University - India

Author Profile

SCOPUS 

Early academic pursuits 🎓

K. Nagaraj's academic journey began with a strong foundation in chemistry, earning his B.Sc. in Chemistry from Devanga Arts College, Aruppukottai, Tamil Nadu, in 2007. He furthered his education by obtaining an M.Sc. in Chemistry from SBK College, Aruppukottai, in 2009, where he achieved a commendable 71%. His passion for research led him to pursue an M.Phil. in Chemistry at Madurai Kamaraj University, where he excelled with a score of 78% in 2010. Nagaraj continued his scholarly journey by completing a Ph.D. in Chemistry at Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirapalli, in 2014, focusing on surfactant cobalt(III) complexes.

Professional endeavors 🏢

Nagaraj's professional career is marked by a series of academic appointments across various prestigious institutions. He has served as an Assistant Professor at several universities, including the School of Pharmacy at the National Forensic Sciences University in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, and St. Eugene University in Zambia. His teaching journey also includes positions at institutions such as IISER, Tiruvananthapuram, and VSM Institutions in Andhra Pradesh. His diverse teaching experience has allowed him to share his expertise in chemistry with students from various backgrounds.

Contributions and research focus 🔬

Nagaraj’s research is primarily centered on the isolation and characterization of secondary metabolites from natural resources, as well as the efficient generation of hydrogen using earth-abundant metal ions. His doctoral work delved into the synthesis of surfactant cobalt(III) complexes, focusing on their kinetics of electron Biochemistry transfer and interaction with nucleic acids, showcasing his commitment to advancing the field of chemistry through innovative research.

Accolades and recognition 🏆

K. Nagaraj has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to the field of chemistry through numerous awards and fellowships. He qualified for the Graduate Aptitude Test for Engineering (GATE) in 2009 and received a University Research Fellowship from 2010 to 2012. His dedication earned him the UGC Research Biochemistry Fellowship for Meritorious Research Students from 2013 to 2015, as well as the prestigious Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Award for Young Scientists in 2016. In addition, he was honored with the InSc Research Excellency Award in 2022, reflecting his significant impact on the scientific community.

Impact and influence 🌍

Throughout his career, Nagaraj has made substantial contributions to both research and education, influencing the next generation of chemists. His work in photocatalytic chemistry and the development of surfactant complexes has implications for environmental sustainability and drug development. By mentoring Biochemistry students and engaging in collaborative research, he continues to inspire others in the field.

Legacy and future contributions 🌱

As he progresses in his academic career, K. Nagaraj aims to further his research in sustainable chemistry and innovative material development. His ongoing projects and collaborations are expected to yield valuable insights into the practical applications of his research. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for teaching, Nagaraj is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the field of chemistry, contributing to advancements that benefit society as a whole.

Notable Publications 

  • Title: Synthesis and antibacterial evaluation of (5Z)-5-[(2-piperidinequinoline-3-yl)methyl]-2-chloroquinoline derivatives: Docking study on substituted N-alkylation and binding mechanisms with E. Coli PDF enzyme
    Authors: Juddhawala, K.V., Parekh, N.M., Alswieleh, A., Nagaraj, K.
    Journal: Spectrochimica Acta - Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy, 2025, 325, 125114
  • Title: Formulation and analysis of acrylic emulsion coatings with chrome yellow, phthalocyanine blue, and red oxide pigments using high speed disperser and bead mill techniques
    Authors: Badgujar, N.P., Kulkarni, R.D., Govindasamy, C., Bari, M.L., Nagaraj, K.
    Journal: Journal of the Indian Chemical Society, 2024, 101(11), 101372
  • Title: Zirconium-doped zinc nanocomposites (ZDZN): Preparation, characterization, and evaluation of antibacterial activity
    Authors: Nagaraj, K., Kaliyaperumal, R., Poovan, V.K., Kasilingam, T., Tharini, K.
    Journal: Journal of the Indian Chemical Society, 2024, 101(11), 101386
  • Title: Sustainable synthesis of iron oxide nanopigments: Enhancing pigment quality through combined air oxidation and cavitation techniques
    Authors: Adhav, K.D., Badgujar, N.P., Alswieleh, A., Nagaraj, K.
    Journal: Journal of the Indian Chemical Society, 2024, 101(11), 101363
  • Title: Nano-enhanced antifungal paint: Harnessing nanoparticle-based fungicides for enhanced durability and protection
    Authors: Chavan, P.G., Badgujar, N.P., Wadaan, M.A., Nagaraj, K.
    Journal: Journal of the Indian Chemical Society, 2024, 101(10), 101257

Mr. Anup Kodape – Biological Sciences – Best Researcher Award

Mr. Anup Kodape - Biological Sciences - Best Researcher Award

Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research - India

Author Profile

SCOPUS

ORCID

Early academic pursuits 🎓

Anup Ramdas Kodape’s academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Botany, Zoology, and Chemistry from Gondwana University, Gadchiroli. He further pursued an M.Sc. in Botany from HISLOP College, Nagpur, where he demonstrated a solid understanding of biological sciences. Currently, he is a Ph.D. candidate in Biological Sciences at CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CSIR-CFTRI), Mysore, under the Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research. His doctoral research focuses on food protectants and infestation control, particularly targeting the mitigation of aflatoxins in groundnut seeds.

Professional endeavors 🏢

Anup’s professional experience includes a diverse range of roles in both research and teaching. As a Senior Research Fellow at CSIR-CFTRI, Mysore, he is working on developing strategies to mitigate aflatoxins in groundnut seeds. His previous roles include Junior Research Fellow positions at both CSIR-CFTRI and CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI). At NEERI, he worked on CO2 sequestration using algal photobioreactors and air pollution reduction. His teaching experience includes serving as an Assistant Professor at HISLOP College, where he conducted lectures and practicals in botany for undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Contributions and research focus 🔬

Anup’s research is primarily focused on food safety and environmental sustainability. His work at CSIR-CFTRI involves identifying fungal flora in groundnut seeds that produce aflatoxins and developing mitigation strategies using natural compounds, biocontrol, and endophytic challenges. His earlier work at CSIR-NEERI involved CO2 sequestration and air pollution management, showcasing his commitment to addressing Biological Sciences environmental issues through innovative approaches. His contributions significantly advance the understanding and management of aflatoxin contamination and environmental pollution.

Accolades and recognition 🏅

Anup has earned recognition for his academic and research achievements. He has qualified the GATE (Life Sciences) conducted by IIT Bombay Biological Sciences and the UGC NET JRF in Environmental Sciences, which highlights his proficiency in the field. His ongoing Ph.D. research is contributing valuable insights into food safety and environmental protection, garnering respect within the scientific community.

Impact and influence 🌍

Anup’s research has a substantial impact on both food safety and environmental sustainability. His work on aflatoxin mitigation is crucial for improving food security and safety, particularly in groundnut production. Additionally, his contributions to CO2 sequestration and air pollution Biological Sciences reduction are important for addressing global environmental challenges. His research influences practices in food technology and environmental engineering, benefiting both scientific and industrial communities.

Legacy and future contributions 🔮

Anup Ramdas Kodape is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the fields of food safety and environmental science. His innovative research on aflatoxin mitigation and environmental sustainability will likely continue to influence these areas significantly. As he advances in his career, his contributions are expected to further enhance food protection strategies and environmental management practices, contributing to global health and sustainability goals.

Notable Publications

Prof. Fady R. Mohareb – Bioinformatics and Computational Biology -Best Researcher Award

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Fady R. Mohareb’s academic journey began with a BSc (Hons.) in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Cairo University, Egypt, where he developed a foundational understanding of the biological sciences. His pursuit of advanced knowledge led him to Cranfield University, where he earned an MSc in Bioinformatics in 2005, followed by a PhD in Bioinformatics and Systems Biology in 2009. This rigorous education set the stage for his subsequent career in bioinformatics and systems biology.

🏛️ PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Mohareb has built an impressive career in bioinformatics over the past two decades. Currently, he serves as a Professor of Bioinformatics at Cranfield University, where he has been instrumental in securing a substantial research income, totaling £4.89M. His leadership extends to heading the Bioinformatics Group and directing the Applied Bioinformatics MSc course. With over 1,200 lecturing hours and the supervision of around 120 MSc students, his role in education and research continues to be pivotal.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Dr. Mohareb’s research focuses on the application of bioinformatics and artificial intelligence to genomics. His work includes genome assembly and functional annotation of various species, such as Fusarium langsethiae and Solanum sitiens. Notable contributions include pioneering Bioinformatics and Computational Biology methods for understanding structural variations associated with drought and salinity tolerance in plants, and using advanced techniques to assess meat spoilage and gene biomarkers in food safety.

📈 ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION

Dr. Mohareb’s research has been widely recognized through numerous high-impact publications in leading journals. His work on genome assembly and functional annotation has been published in journals such as BMC Genomics and Bioinformatics. His innovative research and Bioinformatics and Computational Biology contributions to the field have garnered respect and acknowledgment from peers and industry leaders alike.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Mohareb’s impact extends beyond academia, influencing practices in genomics, bioinformatics, and artificial intelligence. His research on genome assembly and functional annotation has provided valuable insights into genetic variations and their implications for agriculture and food Bioinformatics and Computational Biology safety. His work is crucial in advancing our understanding of genetic mechanisms and their applications in various fields.

🔗 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As a leading figure in bioinformatics, Dr. Mohareb’s legacy is defined by his contributions to genome analysis and his role in shaping the field of applied bioinformatics. His future contributions are likely to continue advancing genomic research and AI applications, with ongoing projects that promise to further our understanding of genetic and biological systems.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Hina Khalid – Biotechnology – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hina Khalid - Biotechnology - Best Researcher Award

Shandong University of Technology - China

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

ORCID 

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Hina Khalid began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science (BS) Honours in Bioinformatics from Government College University, Faisalabad, followed by a Master of Science (MS) in Biotechnology. She completed her Ph.D. in Biotechnology from the same institution in 2021, focusing on innovative approaches in molecular biology and immunoinformatics.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Khalid's research career has been marked by significant contributions across various institutions. She served as a Research Associate at Government College University, Faisalabad, where she led projects investigating the therapeutic potential of synthetic compounds against Biotechnology Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). Her work integrated insilico approaches with experimental validations, employing molecular docking, Real-Time PCR, and western blotting techniques.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Khalid's research interests span a wide array of disciplines within biotechnology and molecular biology. She has expertise in cell biology, microscopy/imaging, immunology, biochemistry, genomics, and bioinformatics. Her notable contributions include the development of novel Biotechnology therapies for HCV, insights into cancer stem cells in hepatocellular cancer, and the design of multi-epitope vaccines against viral infections using immunoinformatics approaches.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Khalid's research has been widely recognized through numerous publications in high-impact journals and several awards. She has authored papers on topics ranging from viral infections to cancer biology, showcasing her expertise in elucidating complex biological mechanisms and Biotechnology developing therapeutic interventions.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Khalid's work has had a profound impact on the fields of biotechnology and immunoinformatics, particularly in advancing the understanding of viral diseases and cancer biology. Her contributions in designing novel therapeutic strategies and vaccines reflect her commitment to Biotechnology addressing global health challenges through innovative research.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Khalid's legacy is characterized by her pioneering research in immunoinformatics and molecular biology, aimed at developing targeted therapies and vaccines. Her future contributions are poised to continue pushing the boundaries of biotechnological research, with a focus on enhancing disease prevention and treatment strategies. As she progresses in her career, Dr. Khalid remains dedicated to leveraging her Biotechnology expertise to make transformative advancements in healthcare and biotechnology.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

Calcineurin and mTOR inhibitors in kidney transplantation: integrative metamodeling on transplant  2024