Shahbaz Khan | Agronomy and Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Shahbaz Khan | Agronomy and Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Horticulturist in Hainan University, Pakistan

Dr. Shahbaz Khan holds a PhD in Agronomy  from Huazhong Agricultural University, China, with research focused on improving rapeseed growth, yield, and lodging resistance, and a Master’s degree in Agronomy from Sindh Agriculture University, Pakistan, specializing in wheat performance under saline conditions. His academic training covers advanced crop production, crop modeling, plant physiology, multivariate statistics, soil fertility, irrigation, weed management, and sustainable agriculture. He has over a decade of professional experience as a Research Officer  and Horticulturist with the Directorate of Agriculture Research, Government of Balochistan, Pakistan. His research interests include plant physiological responses to abiotic stress, tillage and cultivation techniques, photosynthesis, plant water relations, water use efficiency, and yield enhancement strategies. He has led and contributed to international research projects on dryland farming, desertification control, wastewater biopurification, and nutrient management, published conference papers, and holds two authorized patents on agricultural machinery. Dr. Khan is actively engaged in teaching, serves as an Associate Editor for a special issue in Frontiers in Plant Science, and reviews for numerous high-impact international journals in agronomy, soil science, and environmental sciences.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

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Citations
1565

Documents
54

h-index
20

Citations

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h-index

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Featured Publications

Xianglin Dai | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Xianglin Dai | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Xianglin Dai | Hebei Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences | China

Prof. Xianglin Dai is an accomplished Associate Professor at the Institute of Coastal Agriculture, Hebei Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, where he has made notable contributions to agricultural and environmental research. He serves as a Committee Member of the Nutrient Cycling Committee of the Chinese Society of Plant Nutrition and Fertilizers and as a Guidance Expert for the Compilation of Achievements for the Third National Soil Census in Hebei Province, reflecting his influence in advancing soil and nutrient management practices in China. Prof. Dai has successfully led more than six major research projects, including the Hebei Natural Science Foundation General Project, the Hebei Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences Innovation Talent Construction Project, the Tibet Autonomous Region Natural Science Foundation Youth Project, the Tangshan City Science and Technology Plan Project, and the Open Project of the State Key Laboratory of Barley and Yak Germplasm Resources and Genetic Improvement jointly supported by the Ministry and Province. His interdisciplinary research focuses on soil fertility, nutrient cycling, sustainable agriculture, and ecosystem productivity in coastal and high-altitude regions, providing critical insights into optimizing soil health and crop performance under changing climatic conditions. As first author or corresponding author, he has published more than 10 peer-reviewed papers in high-impact international and national journals such as Soil Biology and Biochemistry, Geoderma, Soil and Tillage Research, European Journal of Soil Biology, Applied Soil Ecology, Chinese Journal of Eco-Agriculture, and Journal of Applied and Environmental Biology, which are widely recognized for their scientific rigor and applied relevance. His research outputs have been cited extensively, accumulating over 350 citations with an h-index of 8 on Google Scholar, highlighting his growing academic impact in soil science and environmental sustainability. Beyond research, Prof. Dai has demonstrated innovation and knowledge transfer by securing 2 authorized patents as first inventor and 2 registered software copyrights, supporting technological applications in agricultural resource management. He has also authored 1 monograph as editor-in-chief and contributed to 2 additional scholarly books, further strengthening the dissemination of scientific knowledge. Through his dedication to soil ecology, nutrient dynamics, and sustainable agricultural systems, Prof. Dai continues to play a key role in advancing both theoretical research and its practical implementation, contributing to environmental conservation, agricultural modernization, and food security in China.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Dai, X., Song, D., Guo, T., Cui, J., Zhou, W., Huang, S., Shen, J., Liang, G., & He, P. (2022). Organic amendment regulates soil microbial biomass and activity in wheat–maize and wheat–soybean rotation systems. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment, 340, 107974.

Dai, X., Liu, Y., Sun, J., Zhao, Z., Wang, X., & Zhang, G. (2022). Response of soil bacterial community structure and function under two salt-tolerant plants in a coastal saline soil area of eastern Hebei province of China. International Journal of Phytoremediation, 24(9), 911–922.

Dai, X., Cui, J., Song, D., Xu, X., He, P., Wang, X., Liang, G., Zhou, W., & Zhu, P. (2021). Effects of long-term cropping regimes on SOC stability, soil microbial community and enzyme activities in the Mollisol region of Northeast China. Applied Soil Ecology, 166, 103941.

Dai, X., Song, D., Guo, Q., Zhou, W., Liu, G., Ma, R., Liang, G., He, P., & Sun, G. (2021). Predicting the influence of fertilization regimes on potential N fixation through their effect on free-living diazotrophic community structure in double rice cropping systems. Soil Biology and Biochemistry, 155, 108220.

Dai, X., Guo, Q., Song, D., Zhou, W., Liu, G., Liang, G., He, P., Sun, G., & Yuan, F. (2021). Long-term mineral fertilizer substitution by organic fertilizer and the effect on the abundance and community structure of ammonia-oxidizing archaea and bacteria in paddy soil of south China. European Journal of Soil Biology, 103, 103288.

Dai, X., Song, D., Zhou, W., Liu, G., Liang, G., He, P., Sun, G., Yuan, F., & Liu, Z. (2021). Partial substitution of chemical nitrogen with organic nitrogen improves rice yield, soil biochemical indicators and microbial composition in a double rice cropping system in south China. Soil and Tillage Research, 206, 104753.

Dai, X., Zhou, W., Liu, G., Liang, G., He, P., & Liu, Z. (2019). Soil C/N and pH together as a comprehensive indicator for evaluating the effects of organic substitution management in subtropical paddy fields after application of high-quality amendments. Geoderma, 337, 1111–1119.

Muhammad Ahmad Hassan | Resource and Environment Agronomy | Best Researcher Award-25444

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Dr.Muhammad Ahmad Hassan | Resource and Environment Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Dr.Muhammad Ahmad Hassan | Resource and Environment Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Anhui Agricultural University, China

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Muhammad Ahmad Hassan, born on June 16, 1993, in Pakistan, has consistently demonstrated academic excellence throughout his educational journey. He completed his BSc (Hons) in Agriculture with a focus on Agronomy at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, earning a CGPA of 3.40/4.00. Continuing his academic ascent, he pursued an MSc. (Hons) in Agronomy (Field Crop Production) from the same institution, securing an impressive CGPA of 3.53/4.00. His passion for research and crop sciences led him to Anhui Agricultural University in China, where he completed his PhD in Agronomy, specializing in Crop Cultivation and Farming Systems, with a stellar CGPA of 3.78/4.00.

🏛️ Professional Endeavors

Dr. Hassan has held key research positions at prestigious institutions. His professional career commenced as a Research Associate at the Agronomic Research Institute (ARI), where he contributed to nutrient management strategies in cereal crops under the guidance of Dr. Muhammad Rafiq. His expertise in plant physiology and abiotic stress management was further honed at the U.S-Pakistan Center for Advanced Studies. In 2022, he embarked on his Post-Doctoral journey at the Rice Research Institute, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences (RRI-AAAS), focusing on breeding drought-tolerant rice cultivars. Currently, he is continuing his Post-Doctoral research at the College of Resource and Environment, Anhui Agricultural University, investigating the impacts of high temperature and drought on rice cultivation.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Hassan’s research primarily orbits around rice breeding, drought tolerance, and abiotic stress management. His work involves intricate breeding programs aiming to develop resilient rice cultivars that can thrive under challenging environmental conditions. His PhD research emphasized crop cultivation techniques to optimize productivity in farming systems, and his postdoctoral research extends this work into high-stakes stress conditions like drought and heat, making significant strides toward global food security.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Hassan’s research is pivotal in addressing food security challenges, especially amid changing climate scenarios. His breeding programs have the potential to enhance crop yields in water-scarce and heat-stressed regions. His collaborations with institutions in Pakistan and China highlight his commitment to international agricultural development and capacity building.

📚 Academic Citations and Publications

While the details about his publication list and citation metrics were not provided, Dr. Hassan’s extensive research involvement and collaboration with notable agricultural research institutes suggest a growing academic footprint. His studies contribute meaningfully to the academic discourse on crop resilience and sustainable agricultural practices.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Hassan is proficient in field experimentation, breeding techniques, data analysis, and project management. His strong command over the Chinese language (HSK 6) complements his technical expertise, allowing him to operate seamlessly in international research settings. His multilingual ability—fluent in Urdu, English, and Chinese—enhances his communication and collaborative capabilities.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship Experience

Although specific teaching roles were not detailed, Dr. Hassan’s extensive research experience positions him as an ideal mentor for students and junior researchers in agronomy and crop science. His academic journey across two countries equips him with diverse pedagogical perspectives, valuable for academic teaching and scientific training.

🏆 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Muhammad Ahmad Hassan is poised to leave a significant legacy in the field of agronomic research and rice breeding. His commitment to developing stress-resilient crops will continue to impact global agricultural practices. In the future, he aspires to extend his research collaborations, contribute to major international agricultural projects, and mentor the next generation of scientists in sustainable farming solutions.

📚 Notable Publications

  • Title: RNA modification: A contemporary review of pseudouridine (Ψ) and its role in functional plant biology

  • Authors: Khan, A., Anicet, G., Asdullah, H. U., Hassan, M. A., & Youhong, S.

  • Journal: Plant Science

  • Year: 2025

  • Title: Development of rice water-saving and drought resistance quantitative evaluation system of wide water ecological range based on quantitative gradient water control

  • Authors: Kang, H†, Hassan, M. A†, Kang, J., Luo, Y., Zhang, H., Zeng, Y., Fu, G., Qin, R., Xu, D., and Wang, S.

  • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science

  • Year: 2025

  • Title: Analysis of genome-wide association studies of low-temperature germination in Xian and Geng rice

  • Authors: Li, K†, Hassan, M. A†, Guo, J., Zhao, X., Gan, Q., Lin, C., Ten, B., Zhou, K., Li, M., Shi, Y., Ni, D., & Song, F.

  • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science

  • Year: 2024

  • Title: Drought stress in rice: morpho-physiological and molecular responses and marker-assisted breeding

  • Authors: Hassan, M. A., Dahu, N., Hongning, T., Qian, Z., Yueming, Y., Yiru, L., & Shimei, W.

  • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science

  • Year: 2023

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ivana Varga | Photosynthetic Activity | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Ivana Varga | Photosynthetic Activity | Best Researcher Award

Facultly of Agrobiotechnical Sciences Osijek, Croatia.

Prof. Ivana Varga is a Croatian agricultural scientist specializing in plant breeding, seed production, and industrial crop research. She is currently an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Agrobiotechnical Sciences, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, where she actively contributes to teaching, research, and scientific collaborations. With over a decade of experience, she has led multiple research projects and published numerous scientific papers in top-tier journals. Her work focuses on agrotechnical measures, agroecological conditions, and sustainable agricultural practices to enhance crop productivity and resilience.

Profile

Scopus
Orcid

Education 🎓 

Assistant Prof. Dr. Ivana Varga holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences with a specialization in Plant Breeding and Seed Production from Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, completed in 2016. She also earned multiple degrees from the same institution, including an MSc in Agricultural Engineering (Plant Protection) in 2011, an MSc in Agricultural Engineering (Plant Nutrition and Soil Science) in 2010, and a BSc in Agriculture in 2008. Dr. Varga’s academic background demonstrates a solid foundation in agricultural sciences, with a particular focus on plant breeding, seed production, plant protection, and soil science. Her expertise contributes to her role in advancing research and education in these critical areas of agricultural science.

Experience 👩‍🏫

Assistant Prof. Dr. Ivana Varga is currently an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Agrobiotechnical Sciences, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, a position she has held since 2021. Prior to this, she served as a Postdoctoral Researcher from 2017 to 2021 and as a Research Fellow/Assistant from 2010 to 2017. She is part of the Department of Plant Production and Biotechnology, specializing in cereals, industrial, and forage crops. Her teaching portfolio includes courses such as Special Crop Production, Industrial Crops, Crop Improvement, and Fundamentals of Cereal Production. With a strong background in agricultural sciences, her work contributes to advancements in plant breeding, seed production, and sustainable crop management.

Research Interests 🔬

Industrial Crops: Improving cultivation techniques for better yield and sustainability

Plant Breeding & Seed Production: Enhancing genetic traits for high-performance crops

Agroecology & Soil Science: Studying soil conditions and their impact on crop productivity

Precision Agriculture: Integrating modern technology to optimize farming efficiency

Awards & Recognitions 🏆

Member of Croatian Agronomical Society (2011 – Present)

Member of Croatian Plant Protection Society (2007 – 2010)

Organizer of "Franjo Krežma" and "Darko Lukić" Memorials (2004 – 2009)

Notable Publications 📚

"Industrial Hemp Finola Variety Photosynthetic, Morphometric, Biomechanical, and Yield Responses to K Fertilization Across Different Growth Stages" (Agronomy, 2025). This study explores how potassium fertilization affects the growth and yield of industrial hemp. [DOI: 10.3390/agronomy15020496]

"Dynamics of SPAD Index, Leaf Pigment, and Macronutrient Relationships in Sugar Beet Leaves Under Spring Nitrogen Fertilization" (Nitrogen, 2025). The research examines nitrogen fertilization's impact on leaf pigments and nutrient uptake in sugar beets. [DOI: 10.3390/nitrogen6010010]

"White-Seeded Culinary Poppy (Papaver somniferum L.) Se Biofortification: Oil Quality, Fatty Acid Profile, and Seed Yield" (Plants, 2024). This work focuses on biofortification and oil quality improvements in poppy seeds. [DOI: 10.3390/plants14010095]

"Primjena kalija u gnojidbi krumpira" (Glasnik zaštite bilja, 2024). This article discusses potassium fertilization in potato production. [DOI: 10.31727/gzb.47.6.7]

 

 

 

Prof. Estefanía García-Luque | Agricultural and biological sciences | Women Researcher Award

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Prof. Estefanía García-Luque | Agricultural and biological sciences | Women Researcher Award

EVEGA/Granxa D’Outeiro, Spain.

Estefanía García Luque is a passionate molecular biologist, researcher, and scientific disseminator. She has focused her research on the application of molecular techniques to study genetic diversity, biotechnology in the food industry, and biodiversity conservation. Estefanía has worked with prestigious institutions like the University of Malaga and the Galapagos Biosecurity and Quarantine Agency. As a founder and CEO of GrowMeat, an innovative startup focused on sustainable lab-grown meat production, she is committed to advancing science for a sustainable future.

Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Estefanía holds a Degree in Biology and a Master’s in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Malaga, where she completed her Master's Thesis on tumor cell lines of the NCI-60 panel. She further expanded her expertise with a Master’s in Biological Diversity and Environment, focusing on genetic diversity through molecular techniques.

Experience 💼

Estefanía García Luque has made significant contributions through her diverse roles in the scientific community. As a Researcher at EVEGA (Galician Viticulture and Enology Station), she collaborated with the company Granxa D'Outeiro to identify and isolate autochthonous yeasts, aiming to enhance the production of unique wines that reflect the local terroir. As the Founder and CEO of GrowMeat, she leads an innovative startup dedicated to producing lab-grown meat, providing a more sustainable and efficient food source. Estefanía also contributes to environmental sustainability through her work as a Researcher at the University of Malaga’s SmartCampus Project, where she helps bring the university's scientific initiatives to the public. Furthermore, as an International Collaborator at the Galapagos Biosecurity and Quarantine Agency (ABG), she has been involved in biodiversity conservation efforts, utilizing molecular techniques to identify invasive species that pose a threat to the delicate ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands.

Research Interests 🔬

Molecular Biology

Estefanía’s work in molecular biology focuses on the application of advanced techniques to understand the underlying mechanisms in living organisms, particularly in the context of genetic diversity and environmental adaptation.

Genetic Diversity

Her research explores the vast diversity within species, studying how genetic variations contribute to the survival and resilience of organisms in changing environments. This work has important implications for biodiversity conservation and agricultural applications.

Biotechnology

Estefanía is committed to leveraging biotechnology to develop solutions for a wide range of industries, including food production, health, and environmental management. Her focus is on using molecular techniques to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of biotechnological processes.

Biodiversity Conservation

As a strong advocate for biodiversity, Estefanía contributes to conservation efforts through innovative research. She has worked on projects such as the identification of invasive species in the Galapagos Islands, aiming to protect the unique ecosystems there.

Food Biotechnology

Estefanía’s interest in food biotechnology focuses on developing sustainable and efficient food production methods, such as lab-grown meat, which offer solutions to global food security and environmental challenges by reducing reliance on traditional farming practices.

Awards 🏆

SpinOff 2023 Award for her startup GrowMeat.

First Prize in Flash Session Hackathon for innovative projects.

Berkeley Method of Entrepreneurship Bootcamp at the University of California.

International Cooperation Scholarship for her work in the Galapagos Islands.

Publications 📚

"Using Active Learning Methodologies to Teach Sequence Analysis and Molecular Phylogeny"

Journal: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education

Published: 2025, 53(1), pp. 21–32

"Diversity of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Yeast Strains in Granxa D’Outeiro Winery (DOP Ribeiro, NW Spain): Oenological Potential"

Journal: Fermentation

Published: 2024, 10(9), 475