Shunan Zhang | Agricultural | Research Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shunan Zhang | Agricultural | Research Excellence AwardΒ 

Nanjing Agricultural University | China

Associate Professor Shunan Zhang of Nanjing Agricultural University is an accomplished plant scientist whose work centers on nitrogen use and its biological functions in major crops. With a strong academic background spanning a Bachelor’s degree, PhD, postdoctoral training, and international research experience as a Visiting Researcher at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, he has built a robust foundation in crop physiology and molecular biology. His research primarily investigates the genetic and molecular mechanisms by which nitrogen regulates crop growth periods, flowering time, and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), while also exploring how plant–microbe interactions in the rhizosphere contribute to nitrogen uptake and utilization. He has authored 11 documents, accumulated 397 citations, and holds an h-index of 9, reflecting the growing impact and recognition of his scientific contributions. His publications in leading journals including Advanced Science, Plant Physiology, Plant Biotechnology Journal, Plant and Soil, Journal of Experimental Botany, Crop Journal, and Current Biology have advanced understanding of transcriptional networks, nitrogen signaling pathways, and nutrient–developmental crosstalk in rice. Through his discoveries on key transcription factors, nitrogen-responsive genes, and mechanisms linking carbon–nitrogen balance, Dr. Zhang aims to provide a strong theoretical framework for breeding high-yield, resource-efficient crop varieties. His work not only deepens the fundamental knowledge of plant nutrient regulation but also supports global agricultural sustainability by targeting improved nitrogen use, reduced fertilizer dependency, and enhanced crop performance under varying environmental conditions.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid

Featured PublicationsΒ 

Jin, Y., Deng, L., Wang, T., Wang, Z., Jing, Y., Du, M., Li, X., Qu, H., Ding, W., Liu, Y., Gu, M., Zhang, S., & Xu, G. (2025). The Nhd1–MYB110–MADS15 transcription factor module regulates flowering time in rice. Plant Physiology.

Melike Bakir | Legume Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Melike Bakir | Legume Genetics | Best Researcher AwardΒ 

Erciyes University | Turkey

Dr. Melike BakΔ±r, Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural Biotechnology at Erciyes University, Turkey, is a distinguished researcher specializing in plant biotechnology, molecular genetics, and crop improvement. She earned her Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology from the University of Ankara and has since advanced research in lentil and chickpea genomics, focusing on cold tolerance, hybrid incompatibility, and molecular marker development. Dr. BakΔ±r has successfully led and co-led multiple national and international funded projects, including TUBITAK and Erciyes University initiatives. Her scholarly achievements are reflected in 38 scientific documents, 576 citations, and an impressive h-index of 15, highlighting her research impact and global recognition. She has also contributed as a visiting scholar at the University of Vermont, USA, and as a visiting researcher at the Public University of Navarre, Spain, collaborating with global experts to enhance crop resilience through genomic innovation. Dr. BakΔ±r’s work bridges molecular biology and applied agricultural science, contributing significantly to sustainable crop improvement strategies and advancing genetic resources in legume species, positioning her as one of Turkey’s leading scientists in agricultural biotechnology research.

Profile: ScopusΒ 

Featured PublicationsΒ 

Koboyi, B. W., Keklik, M., Doğanay, Γ–., & BakΔ±r, M. (2025). Transferability of genomic SSR markers in Lens species for genus characterization and lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) breeding. Turkish Journal of Field Crops, 30(1), 223–234.

von Wettberg, E., Banks, C. R., Chakraborty, D., Getahun, T., BakΔ±r, M., Sassi, G., Hart, J. A., Kretzler, B., Layegh-Nikravesh, N., Kantar, B. M., Chen, Y. H., Tobin, D., Kraft, J., Khoury, C. K., & King, G. J. (2025). But does it taste good? A plea to consider the importance of flavor in managing plant genetic resources. Plants, People, Planet.

Butnor, J. R., Wilson, C. P., BakΔ±r, M., D’Amato, A. W., Flower, C. E., Hansen, C. F., & Murakami, P. F. (2024). Cold tolerance assay reveals evidence of climate adaptation among American elm (Ulmus americana L.) genotypes. Forests, 15(11), 1843

Md. Sazzad Hossain | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Md. Sazzad Hossain | Agricultural and Biological Sciences| Best Researcher AwardΒ 

Prof. Md. Sazzad Hossain | Bangladesh Agricultural University | Bangladesh

Professor Md. Sazzad Hossain is a distinguished academic in Aquaculture at Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. With over two decades of teaching, research, and administrative experience, he has contributed significantly to fisheries science, fish nutrition, and aquatic environment research. His career reflects dedication to advancing sustainable aquaculture practices, poverty alleviation, and environmental conservation. He has supervised more than 180 MS students and has published extensively in national and international journals. Widely recognized for his academic and professional excellence, Professor Hossain has represented Bangladesh globally through research collaborations, invited lectures, and international conference presentations, establishing himself as a leader in fisheries science.

Profiles

Scopus
Google Scholar

Education

Md. Sazzad Hossain built a strong academic foundation through rigorous education in fisheries and aquaculture. He completed his SSC and HSC with first-class results in science, followed by a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Fisheries from Bangladesh Agricultural University, where he earned first-class grades. His outstanding performance led him to pursue an M.S. in Aquacultureat the same institution, graduating with distinction (Grade A). Later, he further advanced his expertise as a Doctoral Research Student at the University of the Ryukyus, Japan, focusing on coral growth and environmental influences on aquatic ecosystems.

Professional Experience

Professor Hossain’s career at Bangladesh Agricultural University spans more than 24 years. Starting as a Part-time Teacher in 2000, he became Lecturer, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and finally Professor of Aquaculture (2014–present). His academic responsibilities include teaching aquaculture and fisheries, mentoring postgraduate students, and conducting impactful research projects. He has delivered guest lectures internationally, including at Universitas Negeri Malang, Indonesia, and presented research at global conferences in Japan and Thailand. Additionally, he has held significant administrative roles such as Head of the Department of Aquaculture, Provost, Proctor, and Convenor of the Provost Council, contributing to institutional development and leadership.

Research Focus

Professor Hossain’s research focuses on aquaculture nutrition, fish feed technology, nanoparticle applications, aquatic pollution, and conservation biology. He has conducted pioneering studies on the effects of dietary vitamins, probiotics, and nanoparticles on fish growth, health, and feed utilization. His investigations extend to heavy metal contamination, food safety, and sustainable aquaculture practices, emphasizing environmental management and community well-being. He has led over 20 funded projects, ranging from feed optimization and prebiotic development to coral reef studies and endangered fish conservation. His work integrates innovative scientific approaches with practical solutions to enhance aquaculture productivity, food security, and environmental sustainability in Bangladesh.

Awards and Honors

Professor Hossain has earned recognition for his excellence in research, teaching, and service. He has been invited as a Guest Lecturer internationally, highlighting his global academic impact. His research has attracted competitive funding from prestigious bodies including UGC, MOST, BAURES, BAS-USDA, and ICT Division of Bangladesh. He has supervised a large number of postgraduate students who now serve in fisheries research and management. As a reviewer and editor for reputed international journals, he has contributed to advancing global aquaculture knowledge. His memberships in professional societies such as the Fisheries Society of Bangladesh further reflect his respected standing in the academic community.

Publications Top Notes

Heavy metals accumulation in some important fish species cultured in commercial fish farm of Natore, Bangladesh and possible health risk evaluation β€” M Alam, MF Rohani, MS Hossain β€” Emerging Contaminants 9 (4), 100254, 2023 β€” Citations: 58

Assessment of heavy metals in farmed shrimp, Penaeus monodon sampled from Khulna, Bangladesh: An inimical to food safety aspects β€” C Biswas, SS Soma, MF Rohani, MH Rahman, A Bashar, MS Hossain β€” Heliyon 7 (3), 2021 β€” Citations: 56

Effects of dietary silica nanoparticle on growth performance, protein digestibility, hematology, digestive morphology, and muscle composition of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus β€” A Bashar, NA Hasan, MM Haque, MF Rohani, MS Hossain β€” Frontiers in Marine Science 8, 706179, 2021 β€” Citations: 43

Environmental effects on the stable carbon and oxygen isotopic compositions and skeletal density banding pattern of Porites coral from Khang Khao Island, Thailand β€” MDH Sazzad, AR Wijaya, K Tanaka, S Ohde β€” African Journal of Biotechnology 9 (33), 2010 β€” Citations: 26

Optimization of BCR microwave from Fe assessment in sediment material in the Gulf of Prigi β€” AR Wijaya, I Oktaviana, S Wonorahardjo, Y Utomo, M Muntholib , … β€” IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering 515 (1), 012091, 2019 β€” Citations: 21

Pesticides and heavy metal toxicity in fish and possible remediation – a review β€” MSH Ghafarifarsani H, MF Rohani, M Raeeszadeh, S Ahani, M Yousefi, M Talebi β€” Annals of Animal Science 24, 1007–1024, 2024 β€” Citations: 20

Effects of multispecies probiotics on growth, hematology, and gut health of stinging catfish (Heteropneustes fossilis) in biofloc system β€” AM Sohel, M Shahjahan, MK Hossain, KR Sumi, MS Hossain, … β€” Water 15 (14), 2519, 2023 β€” Citations: 20

Conclusion

Professor Md. Sazzad Hossain exemplifies academic leadership, impactful research, and community service in the field of aquaculture. His pioneering contributions in fish nutrition, environmental conservation, and sustainable aquaculture have significantly advanced fisheries science in Bangladesh and beyond. With extensive publications, global collaborations, and active mentorship, he has shaped the next generation of researchers and professionals. His strong involvement in academic, administrative, and social organizations reflects a balanced commitment to science and society. As a visionary educator and researcher, Professor Hossain continues to influence sustainable fisheries development, making him a role model and an asset to the academic and research community.

Hua Xie | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Hua Xie | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Hua Xie, Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, China.

🌱 Dr. Hua Xie is a Professor at the Institute of Biotechnology, BAAFS, China, specializing in plant genomics, genetics, and pathology. With a Ph.D. in Crop Genetics and Breeding, she has published in top-tier journals like Nature Communications πŸ“š. Her research enhances crop improvement and disease resistance, contributing to global food security 🌾. Dr. Xie has also conducted collaborative research in Canada and the USA, showcasing her international impact and scientific excellence. 🌍✨

Profile

SCOPUS IDΒ 

πŸŽ“ Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Hua Xie embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy/Crop Sciences from Northeast Agricultural University in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province (1991–1995). She deepened her expertise by earning a Master’s in Crop Planting and Cultivation (1996–1999) from the same institution. Demonstrating a strong commitment to plant science, she pursued a Ph.D. in Crop Genetics and Breeding at the prestigious Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (1999–2002), where she cultivated a foundation for her future groundbreaking research.

πŸ’Ό Professional Endeavors

Dr. Xie’s professional trajectory reflects steady progress in plant sciences. She began her career as a Research Assistant at BAAFS in 2002, moving through ranks as Associate Professor, and now serves as a full Professor at the Institute of Biotechnology, BAAFS. Her global experience includes postdoctoral and visiting scholar positions in Canada (Agricultural & Agri-Food Canada, 2008–2009) and the USA (Purdue University, 2009–2010), enriching her international perspective and collaborative capabilities.

πŸ”¬ Contributions and Research Focus On AgriculturalΒ 

Dr. Xie specializes in Genomic Bio-breeding Technology, Plant Genetics and Breeding, Plant Genomics, and Plant Pathology. Her studies have led to significant advancements in crop genetic improvement, soft rot pathogen identification, and resistance gene mapping. Her work integrates fundamental biology with practical breeding techniques, addressing critical challenges in agricultural productivity and plant health.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through her pioneering work on peach genome variation, rice bean landraces, and the molecular epidemiology of Pectobacterium, Dr. Xie has influenced both the academic and applied agricultural domains. Her findings on genome re-sequencing and plant-pathogen interactions have been instrumental in guiding breeders and plant pathologists toward sustainable solutions.

🧠 Research Skills

Dr. Xie possesses a robust skill set in functional genomics, molecular plant pathology, bioinformatics, and marker-assisted breeding. She is adept at both laboratory and field experimentation, skilled in advanced DNA sequencing technologies, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and pathogen diagnostics. These skills allow her to translate genetic knowledge into crop improvement strategies.

πŸ… Awards and Honors

While specific awards were not listed, Dr. Xie’s elevation to full professorship and her international fellowships and visiting roles at globally respected institutions underscore her recognition within the scientific community. Her repeated role as a senior and corresponding author highlights her leadership and expertise in collaborative research.

πŸ›οΈ Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Hua Xie stands as a beacon of excellence in plant science. Her legacy includes mentoring the next generation of scientists and driving innovation in sustainable agriculture. Looking forward, she is poised to further influence global food security through advanced breeding technologies, molecular diagnostics, and integrated disease management solutions tailored for climate-resilient crops.

Publications Top Notes

πŸ“Š The PeachSNP170K array facilitates insights into a large-scale population relatedness and genetic impacts on citrate content and flowering time
πŸ“š Journal: Communications Biology
πŸ“… Year: 2025
🧬 Focus: Genomics, fruit development

🦠 The combined application of Bacillus velezensis BCP6 and Jinggangmycin to control soft rot on Amorphophallus konjac
πŸ“š Journal: Plant Protection Science
πŸ“… Year: 2024
🌿 Focus: Biological plant disease control

πŸ§ͺ A genome-wide association study reveals that epistasis underlies the pathogenicity of Pectobacterium
πŸ“š Journal: Microbiology Spectrum
πŸ“… Year: 2023
🧫 Focus: Pathogen virulence mechanisms

🧬 Occurrence and qPCR-based identification of Pectobacterium versatile causing soft rot in Chinese cabbage
πŸ“š Journal: Plant Disease
πŸ“… Year: 2023
πŸ₯¬ Focus: Disease diagnostics

🧲 Role of Zinc uptake regulator (Zur) in the virulence of Pectobacterium odoriferum
πŸ“š Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
πŸ“… Year: 2023
πŸ§ͺ Focus: Molecular plant pathology

🌾 Genomic analyses of rice bean landraces for adaptation and yield-related loci
πŸ“š Journal: Nature Communications
πŸ“… Year: 2022
🌱 Focus: Crop breeding & adaptation

πŸ‘ Peach genome analyses reveal selection patterns and fruit flavor biochemistry
πŸ“š Journal: Nature Communications
πŸ“… Year: 2021
πŸ‘ Focus: Fruit quality & genomics

πŸ” Genome structure variation and causal inversion for fruit shape in peach
πŸ“š Journal: Genome Biology
πŸ“… Year: 2021
🧬 Focus: Structural genomics

🧫 Detection of Pectobacterium polaris causing soft rot in Chinese cabbage
πŸ“š Journal: Plant Disease
πŸ“… Year: 2021
πŸ§ͺ Focus: Pathogen detection

🌿 Jasmonic acid and ethylene signaling in defense response to Pectobacterium
πŸ“š Journal: Journal of Integrative Agriculture
πŸ“… Year: 2021
🧬 Focus: Plant immune response

πŸ§ͺ Rapid diagnosis of Pectobacterium carotovorum in vegetable soft rot
πŸ“š Journal: Plant Disease
πŸ“… Year: 2020
πŸ₯¦ Focus: Pathogen diagnostics

🧬 Comparative genomics of 84 Pectobacterium genomes
πŸ“š Journal: BMC Genomics
πŸ“… Year: 2018
🧫 Focus: Pathogen evolution

πŸ‘ Genome resequencing reveals evolutionary history of peach fruit edibility
πŸ“š Journal: Nature Communications
πŸ“… Year: 2018
πŸ“ˆ Focus: Genomics and evolution

🌱 First report of Pseudomonas marginalis in celery stem rot
πŸ“š Journal: Journal of Plant Pathology
πŸ“… Year: 2018
πŸ₯¬ Focus: Disease report

πŸ₯¬ First report of Pectobacterium aroidearum in Chinese cabbage
πŸ“š Journal: Plant Disease
πŸ“… Year: 2018
πŸ”¬ Focus: Plant pathology

🌳 Molecular characterization of PpMADS1 gene from peach
πŸ“š Journal: Tree Genetics and Genomes
πŸ“… Year: 2012
🧬 Focus: Gene function in peach

🧫 Rapid identification and phylogenetic analysis of Pectobacterium carotovorum
πŸ“š Journal: Journal of Plant Pathology
πŸ“… Year: 2010
πŸ§ͺ Focus: Plant bacteriology