Shunan Zhang | Agricultural | Research Excellence Award

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

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 Publications 

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.

Dariusz Nowak | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dariusz Nowak | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award 

Medical College in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun | Poland

Dr. Dariusz Nowak, is a distinguished academic with extensive expertise in Food Technology, Human Nutrition, Health Sciences, and Dietetics. As a Professor at the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at the Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, he has built a strong academic profile grounded in both scientific excellence and practical experience. His professional background includes previous work at the Dairy Institute in Warsaw, the Agricultural Market Agency, and the University of Warmia and Mazury, where he developed deep insights into food science and nutrition research. Dr. Nowak’s scholarly output demonstrates significant academic impact, with 18 documents indexed in major scientific databases, 559 citations across 503 citing sources, and an h-index of 13, reflecting the consistent relevance and reach of his research. His work focuses primarily on the antioxidant properties of food and their influence on human health, contributing to advancements in health sciences and food technology. He has authored and reviewed numerous scientific papers and supervised a wide range of bachelor’s and master’s theses, shaping future professionals in the field. His academic achievements are complemented by active collaboration with research institutions and industry partners through grants, implementation projects, and patent-related activities. Beyond science, his interests include the history of the 20th century, enriching his multidisciplinary perspective. Through dedicated teaching, impactful research, and strong professional engagement, Dr. Nowak continues to make meaningful contributions to nutrition science and public health, reinforcing his reputation as a respected scholar and educator.

Profile: Scopus 

Featured Publications 

Dariusz Nowak, … (2025). Antioxidant properties of Aronia melanocarpa and Morinda citrifolia juices and their impact on bladder cancer cell lines. Medical Science Monitor: International Medical Journal of Experimental and Clinical Research.

Arunima Paliwal | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Arunima Paliwal | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Arunima Paliwal, VCSG Uttarakhand University of Horticulture and Forestry, India.

🌾 Dr. Arunima Paliwal is an Assistant Professor/Junior Agronomist at V.C.S.G. Uttarakhand University of Horticulture and Forestry. With a Ph.D. in Agronomy and over 34 research papers, she has made significant contributions to agricultural science. She has authored books 📚, developed technologies 🌱, guided M.Sc. students 🎓, and led extension programs 👩‍🌾. Recognized with 13 awards 🏆, Dr. Paliwal is a dedicated educator, researcher, and innovator, committed to advancing sustainable agriculture and empowering farming communities.