kai Zhou | Food Science | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. kai Zhou | Food Science | Best Researcher Award

department head at Jiujiang university, China

Kai Zhou, Ph.D., is an accomplished Associate Professor at the School of Pharmacy and Life Sciences at Jiujiang University, where he has demonstrated significant contributions in the domains of food safety, nutrition, and the high-value utilization of agricultural resources. His professional journey reflects a solid combination of academic rigor, industrial application, and educational dedication. With a background rooted in food science and aquatic product processing, he has evolved his expertise to focus on the detection and control of harmful substances in fermented foods, contributing practical solutions and technological innovations to the food industry. His leadership roles, recognized teaching impact, and multiple research projects underscore his commitment to advancing food science and ensuring food safety standards are elevated through innovative methodologies.

Profile

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Education

Kai Zhou’s educational background lays a robust foundation for his interdisciplinary work in food science and safety. He obtained his Ph.D. in Food Nutrition and Safety from South China Agricultural University, where he conducted advanced research under the guidance of Professors Yuanming Sun and Zhenlin Xu from 2015 to 2019. During this period, he also expanded his global academic perspective through a joint doctoral training program at the University of Bologna in Italy, collaborating with Professors Rosalba Lanciotti and Francesca Patrignani. Before his doctoral studies, he earned his M.S. in Aquatic Product Processing and Storage Engineering at Bohai University under Professor Xuepeng Li, focusing on techniques that enhance the preservation and processing of aquatic products. His educational journey began with a B.Eng. in Food Science and Engineering from Hebei Normal University of Science & Technology, setting the stage for his later specialization in food safety and fermentation control technologies.

Professional Experience

Dr. Zhou’s professional experience bridges academia and industry, reflecting his dedication to practical application of research outcomes. Since June 2019, he has served at Jiujiang University in various capacities, including Lecturer, Department Director, and currently as an Associate Professor. He has contributed to both the School of Pharmacy and Life Sciences and the Camellia Oleifera Research Center, strengthening the university’s research profile in the region. Complementing his academic post, Dr. Zhou took on a strategic industry role in August 2024 as Senior R&D Engineer and Deputy General Manager at Jiangxi Lufeng Food Therapy Technology Co., Ltd., where he helps guide industrial innovation in food therapy solutions. His prior role as a Postdoctoral Researcher at South China Agricultural University, in collaboration with Shenzhen Tongliang Testing Technology Co., Ltd., further highlights his research depth and commitment to technological advancement in food testing and safety.

Research Interest

Kai Zhou’s research centers on two core areas: food safety, specifically the detection and control of hazardous compounds in fermented foods, and the high-value exploitation of camellia oleifera resources for sustainable product development. His investigations aim to uncover the mechanisms by which natural compounds like quercetin inhibit harmful byproducts such as citrulline and ethyl carbamate during fermentation. His leadership in national and provincial projects underscores the significance of his work, which holds promise for improving traditional fermentation practices and ensuring consumer safety. By integrating molecular-level analysis and practical processing techniques, Dr. Zhou’s research contributes to both scientific understanding and industrial application.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Zhou’s outstanding contributions have earned him multiple accolades that recognize his scientific, educational, and community impact. In 2024, he was honored with the First Prize of the China Commercial Federation Science and Technology Progress Award for his technological advancements benefiting food safety. The same year, he was named an Outstanding Young Teacher of Jiangxi Colleges and Universities, underscoring his commitment to academic excellence. His recognition as one of Jiujiang City’s “Top 10 Most Beautiful Young Scientists” in 2022 highlights his inspirational role for young researchers. Moreover, he has twice been awarded as an Excellent Educator at Jiujiang University, reflecting his dedication to guiding students in research and innovation.

Publications

Dr. Zhou has authored impactful research articles published in reputable journals, contributing valuable findings to the field of food safety. Selected publications include:

  • Zhou K#, et al. (2021). Inhibition of ethyl carbamate accumulation in soy sauce by quercetin, Food Chemistry, cited by 35 articles.
  • Zhou K#, et al. (2020). Fluorescence immunoassay for ethyl carbamate detection, Microchimica Acta, cited by 22 articles.
  • Zhou K#, et al. (2024). Simultaneous extraction of oil, protein and polysaccharide from camellia seed cake, Industrial Crops and Products, cited by 5 articles.

His innovative work is also protected by patents, including a method for reducing citrulline and ethyl carbamate in fermented foods and a detection method for rapeseed oil adulteration, showcasing the practical utility of his research outcomes.

Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Kai Zhou exemplifies the synergy between academic research, industrial application, and educational excellence. Through his leadership in projects funded by national and provincial foundations, impactful publications, and recognized teaching contributions, he continues to advance the frontiers of food safety and sustainable resource utilization. His dedication to guiding students and collaborating with industry partners ensures that his work has tangible societal benefits, positioning him as an influential figure in his field.

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.

Tooraj Mehdizadeh | Functional foods | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Tooraj Mehdizadeh | Functional foods | Best Researcher Award

Assuciate Professor at Urmia University, Iran

Dr. Tooraj Mehdizadeh is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of food hygiene and quality control, currently serving at Urmia University. As an expert in food safety, he has played a pivotal role in enhancing food quality through innovative research and academic leadership. With a career dedicated to the development of safe and functional food systems, Dr. Mehdizadeh is widely recognized for his contributions to food chemical safety, antimicrobial food technologies, and shelf-life enhancement strategies. He is also an active member of multiple academic councils and editorial boards, playing influential roles in national and international food hygiene initiatives.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Mehdizadeh began his academic journey by earning a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M) degree from Urmia University in 2006. His passion for food safety led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Food Hygiene, which he completed at the same institution in 2012. Throughout his education, he displayed a deep commitment to integrating veterinary sciences with food quality management. His academic training provided the foundation for his ongoing research into foodborne hazards, functional foods, and emerging food technologies such as nanotechnology and bioactive packaging.

Experience

Over the years, Dr. Mehdizadeh has held numerous academic and administrative roles that underscore his commitment to educational excellence. He has served as Head of the Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control at Urmia University and is the current Superintendent of the postgraduate course in food hygiene. He was also appointed Associate Professor in 2019 and has since been involved in research, curriculum development, and institutional leadership. Notably, he has played a vital role as a member of the research council at the Food and Beverages Safety Research Center of Urmia University of Medical Sciences, where his efforts contribute to national food policy and safety programs. His prior roles as assistant professor and research assistant from 2007 onwards reflect a career built on sustained academic growth and scholarly dedication.

Research

Dr. Mehdizadeh’s research interests span a range of cutting-edge topics including food nanotechnology, probiotics, natural antimicrobials, active packaging, and postbiotics. He focuses particularly on food safety innovations that prolong shelf life and reduce microbial contamination in food systems. His work often bridges disciplines, combining microbiology, chemistry, and engineering to address food quality challenges in a holistic manner. He has also shown particular interest in exploring the role of antioxidants in food preservation and in developing natural food additives to replace synthetic chemicals. These research themes not only reflect global food safety concerns but also emphasize sustainability and consumer health.

Awards

Throughout his career, Dr. Mehdizadeh has been honored with multiple nominations and recognitions for his contributions to science and education. Notably, he served as the Deputy Executive Secretary of the National Food Hygiene Congress in 2018. He has been an invited speaker at five international congresses, delivering four oral presentations and a plenary lecture, which reflect his stature in the scientific community. His leadership has further been recognized through invitations to contribute to national and international symposia and by being entrusted with supervisory roles over graduate-level research projects both in Iran and abroad.

Publications

Dr. Mehdizadeh has a solid publication record, with over 50 peer-reviewed articles and a Scopus h-index of 34, reflecting around 3,584 citations. Among his selected works, the following seven stand out:

  1. “Application of edible coatings to improve shelf life of meat products” (2020, LWT – Food Science and Technology, cited by 134 articles),

  2. “Antimicrobial activity of plant-based essential oils in food systems” (2019, Food Control, cited by 210 articles),

  3. “Nanoencapsulation of bioactive compounds for food applications” (2021, Trends in Food Science & Technology, cited by 156 articles),

  4. “Use of probiotics and prebiotics in meat preservation” (2018, Meat Science, cited by 98 articles),

  5. “Natural antioxidants and their impact on lipid oxidation in food” (2017, Journal of Food Science and Technology, cited by 165 articles),

  6. “Biodegradable packaging systems for food preservation” (2022, Food Packaging and Shelf Life, cited by 87 articles),

  7. “Postbiotic applications in dairy and non-dairy products” (2023, Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, cited by 65 articles).

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Tooraj Mehdizadeh has established himself as a leading figure in food hygiene research, academic leadership, and food technology innovation. With a strong foundation in veterinary and food sciences, he has successfully merged academic rigor with practical applications that address critical issues in public health and food security. His continued efforts in mentoring, publishing, and policy involvement highlight a career dedicated to enhancing global food quality and safety standards. As a prolific researcher, educator, and scientific leader, Dr. Mehdizadeh’s work continues to shape the future of food hygiene and safety on both national and international platforms.

Samadrita Sengupta | Food Science | Biotechnology Research Award

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Dr. Samadrita Sengupta | Food Science | Biotechnology Research Award

Assistant Professor at West Bengal State University, India

Dr. Samadrita Sengupta serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Food and Nutrition at West Bengal State University, India. Her academic pursuits and research contributions center around the development of functional, non-dairy food products and the exploration of bioactive components in relation to human health. She has notably advanced the formulation of soy-based alternatives to conventional dairy products, such as yogurt, cheese, and rasgulla, incorporating diverse nutritional and functional profiles. Her work integrates traditional food science with innovative nutritional strategies, addressing contemporary health challenges and promoting dietary diversity through plant-based innovations.

Profile

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Education:

Dr. Sengupta has undergone extensive academic training in food science and nutrition, acquiring deep knowledge and practical expertise in food processing technologies. Her educational background laid the foundation for her focused research in functional food development and nutritional biochemistry. Through postgraduate and doctoral studies, she cultivated a robust understanding of the physiological impacts of food constituents, which continues to inform her scholarly investigations and teaching methodology at the university level.

Experience:

With a solid professional standing at West Bengal State University, Dr. Sengupta brings several years of teaching and research experience in food and nutritional sciences. She has designed and supervised academic programs, mentored students, and led diverse research initiatives. Her practical engagements in the lab and her leadership in academic projects highlight her capability in translating theoretical knowledge into applicable innovations, particularly in the realm of health-oriented food product development.

Research Interest:

Dr. Sengupta’s research focuses on food processing, functional foods, and nutrition-based interventions for disease prevention. A major segment of her work involves the development of non-dairy alternatives rich in bioactive compounds, targeting health issues like hypercholesterolemia. Her studies on bitter gourd seed oil, specifically α-Eleostearic acid, as a functional ingredient in soy yogurt underscore her commitment to addressing lifestyle diseases through dietary modification. Additionally, she investigates the health implications of nano micronutrient fortification in everyday diets, thereby contributing to the evolving field of nutraceuticals.

Award:

Recognized for her innovative research and academic contributions, Dr. Sengupta has been nominated for the Biotechnology Scientist Awards. This accolade acknowledges her pioneering efforts in food science, particularly her work in the development of novel non-dairy food products and the investigation into the therapeutic potential of plant-based bioactives. Her nomination reflects her impactful role in advancing the field and promoting science-driven nutritional solutions.

Publications:

Dr. Sengupta has authored over 15 peer-reviewed articles, with the following notable publications:

  1. “Development of soy yogurt fortified with bitter gourd seed oil and its cholesterol-lowering effects” – Journal of Food Biochemistry, 2021 (Cited by 34 articles).

  2. “Nano micronutrients and their role in disease prevention” – International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 2020 (Cited by 56 articles).

  3. “Formulation and analysis of non-dairy soy rasgulla” – Food Research International, 2019 (Cited by 41 articles).

  4. “Processing technologies for non-dairy cheeses: A case study on soy-based cheese” – LWT – Food Science and Technology, 2018 (Cited by 38 articles).

  5. “Functional properties of α-Eleostearic acid in soy-based food matrices” – Nutrition Research Reviews, 2022 (Cited by 29 articles).

  6. “Bioactive compounds in traditional Indian diets: Health implications” – Frontiers in Nutrition, 2023 (Cited by 47 articles).

  7. “Evaluation of plant-based functional food products for metabolic health” – Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 2020 (Cited by 61 articles).

Conclusion:

Dr. Samadrita Sengupta exemplifies a fusion of academic excellence and innovative research in food and nutritional sciences. Her commitment to developing health-beneficial, plant-based food alternatives resonates with global trends towards sustainable and preventative health care. Through her contributions, she continues to influence public health nutrition, inspire academic inquiry, and pave new paths in functional food research. Her scholarly works and impactful studies mark her as a significant figure in the advancement of food science in India and beyond.