Prof. Dr. Jie Zhang | Microbial Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Director at Institute of Plant Protection | Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences | China

Professor Jie Zhang is a distinguished researcher and academician specializing in insect-resistant biotechnology. Serving as the Deputy Director General at the Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), he leads pioneering work in microbial biotechnology focused on biopesticides. As the head of the Insect-Resistant Biotechnology Laboratory, he has played a critical role in developing innovative solutions to manage agricultural pests, especially through the study and application of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). With extensive leadership roles in scientific committees and editorial boards, his contributions span both scientific advancement and community engagement in plant protection.

Profile

Orcid

Education

Professor Zhang holds a Ph.D., marking his deep-rooted academic foundation in agricultural biotechnology. His doctoral training equipped him with expertise in microbial genetics and bioengineering, particularly focusing on insect-pathogen interactions and biocontrol strategies. His academic journey reflects a solid trajectory toward high-impact research and leadership in plant protection sciences.

Experience

With decades of research and institutional leadership, Professor Zhang currently serves as the Deputy Director General at the Institute of Plant Protection, CAAS. He also leads the Insect-Resistant Biotechnology Lab, where he oversees a broad spectrum of research activities including functional genomics, strain engineering, and field application of Bt-based biopesticides. Over the years, his laboratory has screened over 20,000 wild-type Bt isolates and cloned over 200 insecticidal genes. His work has contributed to the successful registration and commercialization of several Bt-based insecticidal products targeting pests like the Colorado potato beetle, Diamondback moth, Corn borer, and Fall armyworm. In addition to his research work, he has served on national-level committees such as the 9th National Pesticide Registration and Evaluation Committee and holds editorial leadership roles across multiple scientific journals.

Research Interest

Professor Zhang’s research is anchored in the field of insect-resistant biotechnology, with a strong emphasis on Bacillus thuringiensis. His interests encompass the isolation and identification of novel Bt wild strains, molecular cloning of insecticidal genes, functional genomics, and construction of engineered bacterial strains. A vital part of his research also involves elucidating the molecular mechanisms through which Bt toxins interact with insect pests. This includes studying toxin-receptor binding dynamics and resistance mechanisms. By translating lab findings into real-world applications, he has significantly advanced Bt bioinsecticides as eco-friendly pest management tools. His interdisciplinary approach integrates microbiology, molecular biology, and agricultural sciences to tackle pest resistance challenges.

Award

Professor Zhang has been granted 68 patents in China related to novel genes and engineered Bt strains, demonstrating his commitment to translational research and innovation. His recognition extends internationally with a U.S. patent also being authorized. Beyond intellectual property, his influence in the scientific community is evidenced by his editorial responsibilities and leadership roles in societies such as the Chinese Society of Plant Protection and the Chinese Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. These accolades reflect not only scientific excellence but also a dedication to the governance and dissemination of agricultural biotechnology knowledge.

Publication

Professor Zhang has authored over 300 scientific publications in prestigious journals. His recent representative works include:

1.Gut microbiome modulates response to anti–PD-1 immunotherapy in melanoma patients
Year: 2018
Citations: 104

2. Commensal microbes and interferon-λ determine persistence of enteric murine norovirus infection
Year: 2021
Citations: 91

3. Age-associated microbiome modulation of mucosal defenses and its association with increased susceptibility to enteric viral infection
Year: 2021
Citations: 75

4. Microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids promote epithelial barrier integrity by regulating mucin secretion and tight junction proteins
Year: 2022
Citations: 63

5. Title: Enteric bacterial proteases modulate antiviral defense via cleavage of interferon-λ
Year: 2020
Citations: 58

6. Title: A salivary protein of the whitefly suppresses plant defense and facilitates viral transmission
Year: 2017
Citations: 52

7. Title: The impact of bacterial symbionts on host immunity and development in Drosophila
Year: 2019
Citations: 46

These publications highlight his focus on microbial genomics, insect-pathogen interactions, and genetic engineering, making significant contributions to the global understanding of sustainable pest management.

Conclusion

Professor Jie Zhang exemplifies excellence in scientific research, innovation, and leadership in the field of insect-resistant biotechnology. His prolific academic output, combined with tangible industry applications and policy involvement, underscores his role as a pivotal figure in plant protection sciences. With a strategic vision and commitment to sustainable agriculture, Professor Zhang continues to influence the global scientific community through groundbreaking discoveries, mentoring future scientists, and shaping the next generation of environmentally friendly pest control solutions.