Irfat Jan | Agricultural Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Irfat Jan | Agricultural Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Post Doctoral Fellow | SKUAST Kashmir | India

Dr. Irfat Jan is a dedicated plant scientist currently serving as a Women Scientist under the WISE-Post Doctoral Fellowship (WISE-PDF), supported by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. Her primary domain lies within genetics and plant breeding, with a distinct focus on disease resistance and crop improvement in wheat. Through a series of prestigious fellowships and funded projects, she has accumulated extensive expertise in molecular breeding, bioinformatics, and advanced genomics. Her work is well recognized in both national and international academic platforms, where she has made significant contributions to wheat improvement programs through gene pyramiding and marker-assisted selection.

Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Irfat Jan has achieved notable academic milestones, beginning with a Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences from the University of Kashmir. She then pursued a Master’s degree in Biotechnology from Chaudhary Charan Singh University (CCSU), Meerut, graduating. Her academic trajectory continued with an M.Phil. in Genetics and Plant Breeding from the same university, where she was recognized as a faculty topper. She completed her Ph.D. in Genetics and Plant Breeding from CCSU. Her academic background laid a strong foundation in genomics, bioinformatics, and molecular biology, equipping her with skills essential for cutting-edge research in crop science.

Experience

Dr. Jan has gathered diverse research experience through her involvement in national-level projects funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT). As a Research Fellow, she contributed to genomic-based germplasm characterization and trait discovery initiatives focused on enhancing climate resilience and nutritional quality in wheat. During her Ph.D., she conducted a comprehensive study on pyramiding rust resistance genes into high-quality wheat lines under the guidance of eminent scientists, including Prof. P.K. Gupta and Prof. H.S. Balyan. Her work extended to in silico studies of gene families, meta-QTL analysis, and the practical application of marker-assisted breeding. Currently, she is spearheading a WISE-PDF project aimed at introgressing multiple disease resistance meta-QTLs into elite wheat cultivars specific to the Kashmir valley.

Research Interest

Her primary research interests revolve around genetic enhancement of wheat through molecular breeding, with a focus on rust resistance, nutritional biofortification, and drought tolerance. She is particularly engaged in exploring QTL meta-analysis, gene pyramiding, and bioinformatic modeling of functional genes. Dr. Jan is proficient in employing a variety of tools including qRT-PCR, genotyping, genome-specific primer design, and protein modeling. The integration of molecular biology with field-based plant breeding has defined her interdisciplinary approach, enabling the development of resilient and high-performing wheat genotypes suited for regional agro-ecologies.

Award

Dr. Jan’s contributions have been consistently acknowledged through several awards and fellowships. Most recently, she was honored with the WISE-PDF award by the DST. She received the Young Achiever Award in from the Institute of Scholars (InSc). Earlier, she held JRF and SRF positions under DBT-funded projects. Her academic excellence was previously recognized with the Former President Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma Gold Medal and Vice-Chancellor Gold Medal. She also cleared the ICAR NET and was awarded the National Merit-cum-Means Scholarship.

Publication

Dr. Jan has authored and co-authored numerous high-impact scientific papers. Selected seven include:

Pyramiding of Genes/QTL for Resistance Against Three Rusts, High Grain Protein Content and Pre‐Harvest Sprouting Tolerance in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Using Marker‐Assisted Selection
Year: 2025

Marker‐Assisted Introgression of High Grain Protein Content and Leaf Rust Resistance Genes into HD3086 for Improving Nutritional Quality and Disease Resistance in Wheat
Year: 2023

Marker‐Assisted Pyramiding of Leaf Rust and Stripe Rust Resistance Genes into Wheat Variety HD2967
Year: 2022
Citations: 8

Marker‐Assisted Pyramiding of Genes for Resistance Against Leaf Rust and Karnal Bunt in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Year: 2022
Citations: 4

Validation of Molecular Markers Linked with Grain Protein Content in Diverse Genetic Backgrounds of Wheat
Year: 2022
Citations: 6

Marker‐Assisted Improvement for Resistance Against Rusts and High Grain Protein Content in HD2733 Wheat Variety
Year: 2022
Citations: 7

Marker‐Assisted Introgression of Leaf Rust and Stripe Rust Resistance Genes into Wheat Variety HD3086
Year: 2021
Citations: 28

Conclusion

Dr. Irfat Jan stands out as a promising young scientist in the realm of genetics and plant breeding, with her work directly contributing to agricultural sustainability and food security. Her research has bridged theoretical knowledge with practical breeding solutions through advanced molecular techniques. By integrating bioinformatics with field-based breeding, she aims to develop high-yielding, disease-resistant wheat cultivars tailored for vulnerable agro-ecological zones. Her robust academic background, extensive project involvement, and a strong publication record underscore her eligibility for scientific recognitions and awards, as she continues to make impactful contributions to the agricultural biotechnology sector.

Krishnagowdu Saravanan | Agricultural Biotechnology | Young Scientist Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Krishnagowdu Saravanan | Agricultural Biotechnology | Young Scientist Award

Assistant Professor at Arignar Anna College (Arts & Science), India

Dr. Krishnagowdu Saravanan is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of plant biotechnology, currently serving as Assistant Professor and Co-Ordinator of the Research and Development Cell & IPR Cell at the Post Graduate and Research Centre in Biotechnology, Arignar Anna College, Tamil Nadu. With a robust background in plant genetic engineering, abiotic stress management, and metabolic engineering, Dr. Saravanan has made significant contributions to crop improvement techniques. His dedication to the advancement of agricultural biotechnology is reflected through numerous research projects, scientific publications, and active roles in editorial and advisory boards of reputed journals.

Profile

Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Saravanan’s academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Biotechnology from Arignar Anna College, followed by an M.Sc. in Biotechnology and a Post Graduate Diploma in Cheminformatics from Bharathiar University, achieving distinctions throughout. He completed his Ph.D. in Biotechnology in 2024 at Bharathiar University, specializing in plant molecular biology. His doctoral research focused on bioengineering flavonols to enhance salt tolerance in soybean via Arabidopsis MYB12 transcription factor expression, demonstrating both innovation and application in sustainable agriculture.

Experience

Dr. Saravanan has amassed diverse professional experience across research and academic institutions. His academic career began as a Project Fellow and later as Project Assistant at Bharathiar University. He then worked as a Scientist with VitaCrop Technologies Pvt. Ltd. in collaboration with an Israeli firm, contributing to R&D initiatives on climate-resilient crops. Since September 2024, he has been an Assistant Professor at Arignar Anna College, where he also coordinates research and intellectual property initiatives. His work integrates teaching, research supervision, and innovation-driven administrative leadership.

Research Interest

Dr. Saravanan’s research interests center on plant transgenic technologies, metabolic engineering for secondary metabolite production, and the development of biostimulants to combat abiotic stress. His investigations delve into genetic transformation, molecular characterization, and the utilization of bio-based growth enhancers derived from invasive weed extracts and agricultural wastes. His multidisciplinary approach connects molecular biology, bioinformatics, and environmental sustainability, aiming to improve crop productivity and resilience under adverse conditions.

Award

Throughout his career, Dr. Saravanan has received numerous accolades recognizing his scientific contributions and teaching excellence. These include the “Future Leaders Industry Award 2025” by Scifax, the “Young Scientist Award 2024” by the Indian Society of Agricultural Science and Technology, and multiple best oral and poster presentation awards at national conferences. He has also been honored with the “Young Agriculture Research Scholar Award 2022” and a national-level DST-INSPIRE award for academic merit.

Publication

Dr. Saravanan has co-authored impactful research articles in high-quality peer-reviewed journals. Notable among these are:

  1. Optimization of callus induction and cell suspension system in Hemidesmus indicus in Plant Cell, Tissue and Organ Culture, 2025 – cited 5 times.
  2. Exogenous ascorbic acid priming in soybean under salinity stress, Crop Research, 2025 – cited 4 times.
  3. Transformation of bottom ash into vermicompost for maize, Russian Journal of Plant Physiology, 2025 – cited 6 times.
  4. Genistein production via adventitious root culture in soybean, Plant Cell Tiss Organ Cult, 2024 – cited 10 times.
  5. Biogenic carbon quantum dots for curcumin enhancement in turmeric, Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 2024 – cited 11 times.
  6. Genetic transformation of soybean using half-seed explants, 3 Biotech, 2023 – cited 13 times.
  7. Onion extract mitigating salt stress in soybean, Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, 2023 – cited 9 times.

These publications reflect his consistent focus on crop enhancement through both biotechnological and eco-friendly innovations.

Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Krishnagowdu Saravanan stands out as a forward-thinking biotechnologist whose research bridges traditional plant science with modern molecular tools. His expertise spans plant transformation, environmental sustainability, and the development of innovative bioproducts. With a growing record of high-impact publications, awards, and leadership in academia, Dr. Saravanan continues to influence the field of agricultural biotechnology while mentoring the next generation of scientists. His work is both scientifically rigorous and socially relevant, aligning with global goals for food security and sustainable agriculture.

Shenchun Qu | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Shenchun Qu | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Nanjing Agricultural University, China

Professor Shenchun Qu is a distinguished academic serving at Nanjing Agricultural University, where he leads research and graduate mentorship efforts primarily focused on the sustainable development and scientific advancement of the persimmon industry. With a profound impact on fruit crop physiology and biotechnology, Professor Qu has significantly contributed to both fundamental research and applied agricultural innovations, particularly targeting the enhancement of persimmon dwarfing, propagation, and genetic transformation. His extensive academic journey is rooted in agricultural sciences, and his professional role as a professor reflects years of progressive engagement in plant biotechnology and crop genetics. Throughout his tenure, he has established himself as a leading voice in persimmon research by integrating molecular biology, plant physiology, and genetic engineering to solve pressing challenges in fruit production.

Profile

Scopus

Professor Qu’s educational foundation is firmly grounded in agricultural science, and his career at Nanjing Agricultural University has flourished through consistent dedication to mentoring graduate students, spearheading field research, and contributing to cutting-edge developments in plant biotechnology. His educational experiences have positioned him to guide interdisciplinary investigations that bridge genetics, molecular biology, and horticulture. Through rigorous academic training and collaborative initiatives, Professor Qu has built a research portfolio that underlines the importance of integrating genetic regulation and innovative cultivation techniques to advance fruit tree breeding.

Education

Professionally, Professor Qu has cultivated deep expertise through years of hands-on academic work, where he has successfully managed large-scale research projects funded by prestigious organizations. Two of his prominent ongoing projects include the Jiangsu Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Fund (CX(22)2028) and the Jiangsu Seed Industry Revitalization Project (JBGS(2021)019). These projects reflect his commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity through biotechnological intervention and genetic analysis. As a consultant and leader of several applied agricultural projects, he has made notable contributions to the industry by translating laboratory results into field-ready solutions. His industry relevance is further supported by the successful filing of four patents, including a special fertilizer for sweet persimmon and genetic innovations related to the Nantong Square Persimmon. These patents exemplify his applied research approach and commitment to tangible outcomes in crop enhancement and propagation techniques.

Research

Professor Qu’s research interests center around the genetic mechanisms regulating persimmon dwarfism, interstock-induced morphological traits, and stress-responsive gene expression. His scientific inquiry bridges plant molecular genetics and horticultural biotechnology, allowing for deeper understanding and control of plant growth traits. He has delved into the functional characterization of key gibberellin-related genes such as DkGAI1, DKGA2ox1, and miR171f_3, which play a regulatory role in growth inhibition and scion behavior. His work has made pioneering advances in identifying candidate genes responsible for dwarfism, which is critical for orchard management and high-density planting systems. Moreover, his interest in transcriptomic analysis, antioxidant properties of persimmon varieties, and genetic transformation has opened new doors for enhancing crop performance under environmental stress.

Awards

His academic excellence has been recognized through several prestigious platforms, and he is often nominated for awards celebrating innovation in agricultural science. His work in the field of fruit tree physiology and genetic modification has set new benchmarks for developing high-yield, resilient cultivars. He is a strong candidate for national and international recognition in the plant sciences sector, particularly for his innovations that blend genetic engineering with sustainable agricultural practices.

Publications

Professor Qu’s publication record exemplifies his leadership in persimmon genetics. Among his recent peer-reviewed journal articles are:

  1. Ye X. et al., “The regulatory role of DELLA protein DkGAI1 in persimmon dwarfism,” Plant Science, 2025 – Cited in [article count TBD via Web of Science].

  2. Dong Y. et al., “The regulatory role of gibberellin related genes DKGA2ox1 and MIR171f_3 in persimmon dwarfism,” Plant Science, 2021 – Highly cited in plant physiology research.

  3. Dong Y. et al., “The regulation of DKGA2ox1 and miR171f_3 in scion dwarfing,” Planta, 2021 – Referenced widely in horticultural biotechnology studies.

  4. Dong Y. et al., “Antioxidant and the dwarfing candidate gene of ‘Nantongxiaofangshi’,” Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2020 – Impactful in oxidative stress research in plants.

  5. Shen Y. et al., “Transcriptomic analysis of interstock-induced dwarfism in Sweet Persimmon,” Horticulture Research, 2019 – Cited in interstock physiology research.

  6. Li X. et al., “In vitro regeneration and Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation of D. lotus,” Scientia Horticulturae, 2018 – Frequently cited in plant transformation literature.

  7. Wang H. et al., “Selection of suitable reference genes for qPCR in persimmon,” PLOS ONE, 2017 – Recognized for methodological innovations in gene expression analysis.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Professor Shenchun Qu stands as a leading figure in persimmon biotechnology with a robust academic background, innovative research contributions, and a dedication to advancing fruit tree development through molecular and physiological insights. His career embodies a unique blend of theoretical depth and practical application, making him a strong nominee for any award honoring breakthroughs in agricultural research. His scholarly output, patent achievements, and mentorship legacy continue to drive innovation in horticulture and plant science, ensuring lasting contributions to food security and crop sustainability.