Jin Young Kim | Agri | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic Achievements

Ms. Jin Young Kim | Agri | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Jin Young Kim | Agri – PhD student at Hankyong National University, South Korea

Jin Young Kim is a promising young researcher in the field of plant molecular genetics, specializing in genome editing and functional genomics of crop plants. As a Ph.D. candidate at Hankyong National University, South Korea, Kim’s work stands at the intersection of biotechnology and agriculture, with a particular focus on enhancing crop traits through CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing. Kim has made significant contributions to improving antioxidant activity in tomatoes and stress tolerance in rice, striving to address real-world challenges in food quality and climate-resilient agriculture. Their early career trajectory and publication record position them as an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Academic Profile

ORCID

🎓 Education

Jin Young Kim completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Horticultural Biotechnology in 2021 at Hankyong National University, where a passion for plant molecular biology and crop improvement was first cultivated. In 2023, Kim earned a Master of Science from the same institution, with a thesis focused on “A study on Generation and Functional Analysis of Gene Edited Lines for SGR, GAD by CRISPR/Cas9 System in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.).” Their education provided a solid foundation in plant genetics, biotechnology tools, and molecular techniques, which are now being refined and expanded at the Ph.D. level.

🧪 Experience

Kim’s academic experience is deeply rooted in laboratory research and collaborative projects in the field of horticultural biotechnology. During their M.S. and Ph.D. training, Kim has contributed to multiple gene editing projects involving tomatoes and rice, targeting genes associated with antioxidant activity, abiotic stress response, and energy metabolism. The candidate has participated in both basic and applied research, from gene cloning and transcriptome analysis to phenotype characterization in knockout lines. These experiences have developed Kim’s technical expertise and cultivated their understanding of translational research in agricultural innovation.

🌱 Research Interests

Jin Young Kim’s research focuses on the generation of high-functionality crops through genome editing, with core interests in antioxidant biosynthesis, stress physiology, and plant gene function. Current research activities include:

  • Development of high-antioxidant tomatoes using CRISPR/Cas9

  • Functional genomics of starch biosynthesis genes in rice

  • Analysis of pre-harvest sprouting candidate genes

  • Production of antimicrobial peptides in plant tissues
    Through these diverse projects, Kim seeks to contribute to both scientific advancement and sustainable agriculture, particularly by improving food quality, resilience, and nutritional value through molecular approaches.

🏅 Awards

Though still early in their academic career, Jin Young Kim’s rapid growth and significant research output exemplify the caliber worthy of recognition. Their collaborative work in high-impact journals, involvement in cutting-edge plant science, and dedication to precision breeding techniques demonstrate their eligibility for the Best Researcher Award. Continued contributions are likely to bring further accolades as Kim gains greater recognition in the global scientific community.

📚 Selected Publications

🧪 “Physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity of CRISPR/Cas9-edited tomato SGR1 knockout (KO) line” – International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2024) – Highlights enhanced antioxidant capacity; cited by multiple studies on functional food development.
🧬 “Transcriptome and metabolite profiling of tomato SGR-knockout null lines using the CRISPR/Cas9 system” – International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2022) – A foundational study in metabolic analysis of edited lines.
🌾 “Knockout of OsGAPDHC7 Gene Encoding Cytosolic Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Affects Energy Metabolism in Rice Seeds” – International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2024) – Demonstrated the link between gene knockout and rice seed vitality.
🌿 “A Knockout of the OsGAPDHC6 Gene Reacts Sensitively to Abiotic Stress in Rice” – Genes (2025) – Offers new insights into plant stress adaptation via gene editing.
🌞 “Overexpression of orange gene (OsOr-R115H) enhances heat tolerance in rice” – Genes (2021) – Explored abiotic stress resistance, highly cited in heat tolerance research.
🌾 “ABA and Pre-Harvest Sprouting Differences in Knockout Lines of OsPHS3” – Plants (2025) – Important for cereal crop improvement under climate variability.
🍚 “Genome editing of golden SNP-carrying lycopene epsilon-cyclase (LcyE) gene in rice” – International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2022) – An advanced example of CRISPR/HDR application in nutritional enhancement.

🧠 Conclusion

Jin Young Kim exemplifies the next generation of scientific leaders in plant biotechnology. Their commitment to using advanced molecular tools to address agricultural challenges is both timely and impactful. With a steadily growing portfolio of publications, interdisciplinary research experiences, and a focus on the practical implications of plant genome editing, Kim is making meaningful contributions to crop science and food security. Their work not only supports the scientific community but also responds to global needs for resilient, nutritious, and sustainable food systems. These achievements and research potential strongly support their nomination for the Best Researcher Award.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Naeem Sattar | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic Achievements

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Naeem Sattar | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Naeem Sattar | Agricultural – Associate Professor at King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia

Dr. Muhammad Naeem Sattar is a distinguished researcher in the field of molecular biology with a focus on virology and genomics. He holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology with a specialization in Molecular Virology from Sweden. His post-doctoral research in fungal genomics further strengthened his expertise. Dr. Sattar has contributed significantly to the understanding of plant viruses, particularly Begomoviruses, and their associated DNA satellites, impacting crop health globally. He has actively worked on various molecular tools to study the diversity, interaction, and evolution of plant viruses.

Profile Verified:

Orcid | Scopus | Google Scholar

Education:

Dr. Sattar’s academic journey began with a B.Sc. (Hons) in Agriculture from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan, where he graduated with distinction. He then pursued an M.Sc. (Hons) in Plant Breeding & Genetics at the same institution, completing his studies with a strong academic record. His Ph.D. at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) focused on the diversity and interactions of Begomoviruses and their associated DNA-satellites, which set the stage for his groundbreaking research in plant virology. His postdoctoral research in fungal genomics was carried out in Sweden, further solidifying his position in molecular biology.

Experience:

Dr. Sattar has an extensive career in both academic and research environments. He has supervised and co-supervised numerous Ph.D. and M.Sc./M.Phil. students, fostering the next generation of plant biotechnologists. His research spans molecular detection, characterization, and management of plant viruses, particularly those causing diseases like Cotton Leaf Curl Disease (CLCuD). He has worked internationally, contributing to projects in Saudi Arabia, Sweden, Pakistan, and Nicaragua. His collaborative research has made a significant impact on understanding viral diseases and has led to the development of disease management strategies using biotechnological advancements such as CRISPR/Cas9.

Research Interests:

Dr. Sattar’s primary research interests revolve around developing genetic resistance in crops to combat biotic and abiotic stresses such as salinity and drought. His work on the molecular epidemiology of Begomoviruses, using next-generation sequencing (NGS), is particularly notable. Additionally, his efforts in improving plant-microbial interactions and understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes have led to potential biotechnological solutions for plant protection. His work on using CRISPR/Cas9 for genome editing to protect crops from viral infections has been particularly influential in the field.

Awards:

Dr. Sattar has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including multiple research grants from prestigious foundations such as the Nilsson-Ehle Foundation and the Magn. Bergvall’s Foundation in Sweden. He has been awarded several travel and research grants, including from the Overseas Scholarship Scheme (HEC) in Pakistan and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). Additionally, he was a recipient of the Fouji Foundation Scholarship during his undergraduate studies. These awards reflect his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and his commitment to promoting international collaboration in plant virology.

Publications:

  1. Sattar, M.N., et al. (2024). Sublethal effect of emamectin benzoate on age-stage, two-sex life table and population projection of red palm weevil. Scientific Reports, 14(1):22565. 🐞
  2. Sattar, M.N., et al. (2024). Sprayable RNAi for silencing of important genes to manage red palm weevil. PLOS One, 19(10):e0308613. 🌿
  3. Sattar, M.N., et al. (2024). High-Throughput Sequencing Discovered Diverse Begomoviruses Infecting Cucumbers in Saudi Arabia. Frontiers in Plant Science, 15:1375405. 🌱
  4. Sattar, M.N. (2024). Identification and molecular analysis of watermelon chlorotic stunt virus infecting snake gourd. Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca, 52(3):13857. 🍉
  5. Ghafoor, A., et al. (2024). Exploring Metal-Based Nanoparticles for Boosting Plant Tolerance to Heavy Metals and Trace Element Contamination. Phyton, 93 (11):2683-2705. ⚙️
  6. Hanif, A., et al. (2024). Morpho-Physiological and Biochemical Responses of Cymbopogan citratus and Asparagus officinalis L. to Waterlogging and Salinity Stress. Journal of Ecological Engineering, 25(2):115-125. 🌾
  7. Wang, L.H., et al. (2024). The role of remote sensing, geophysics, and crop modeling in irrigation management: review and future perspective. Applied Ecology & Environmental Research, 22(1):373-394. 🌍

Conclusion:

Dr. Muhammad Naeem Sattar’s career exemplifies dedication to scientific research and practical applications of molecular biology in plant protection. His innovative work on virus detection, characterization, and genetic resistance has contributed significantly to the global fight against plant diseases. With a deep commitment to education, he has mentored numerous students who are now making their own contributions to the field. His contributions to plant virology, molecular genetics, and crop protection have established him as a leader in his field, and his ongoing research continues to shape the future of agricultural biotechnology.

 

 

Pichad Khejornsart | Agricultural | Outstanding Scientist Award

Posted on by Academic Achievements

Assist. Prof. Dr. Pichad Khejornsart | Agricultural | Outstanding Scientist Award

Researcher | Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources | Thailand

Dr. Pichad Khejornsart is an esteemed Associate Professor in Ruminant Nutrition at Kasetsart University, Thailand. He has dedicated his career to improving the efficiency of local beef and buffalo production and enhancing meat quality, with a strong emphasis on sustainable animal nutrition. His research aims to optimize ruminant nutrition to enhance animal performance while minimizing the environmental impact of livestock operations. His work addresses diverse aspects of animal health, digestion, and metabolic processes, particularly in ruminants like cattle and buffalo. Through his extensive experience in academia and practical research, Dr. Khejornsart has contributed significantly to advancing agricultural science in Thailand.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Khejornsart earned his Ph.D. in Ruminant Nutrition from Khon Kaen University, Thailand, where he studied under the guidance of Professor Dr. Metha Wanapat. He achieved a remarkable GPA of 3.93 during his doctoral studies (2005-2010). Prior to this, he completed his B.Sc. in Animal Science at the same institution with first-class honors, graduating in 2004 with a GPA of 3.62. His education equipped him with a solid foundation in animal science, focusing specifically on ruminant nutrition and the optimization of feeding strategies for farm animals.

Experience

Dr. Khejornsart has been a part of Kasetsart University since 2011, where he currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Agro-Resources. Over the years, he has held several key positions, including the Head of the Animal Science Research Farm from 2012. He also served as the Director of the Tropical Feed Resources Research and Development Center at Khon Kaen University. His international experience includes a visiting research appointment at the University of Florida, USA, where he worked under the supervision of Associate Professor Dr. Adesogan T. Adebola. He has been involved in numerous research and extension activities aimed at improving animal productivity and health through better nutrition and feeding systems.

Research Interests

Dr. Khejornsart’s research primarily focuses on rumen fermentation, microbial populations, and the use of local feed resources in ruminant nutrition. His work explores the nutritional effects on energy balance, health, and reproduction in lactating dairy cattle. He is particularly interested in the manipulation of ruminal fermentation to enhance feed efficiency and reduce methane emissions. Another significant area of his research involves the use of biotechnology to improve animal production. His work also extends to studying the impacts of feeding management on milk composition, particularly in dairy cattle. His innovative approach to utilizing local, often underused feed resources is aimed at promoting sustainable livestock farming.

Awards

Dr. Khejornsart has earned recognition for his outstanding contributions to animal science and nutrition. Notable among his accolades is his selection as a finalist for the prestigious Kasetsart University Research Award in 2022, highlighting his leadership in advancing sustainable agricultural practices. His innovative research into improving the quality and nutritional value of feed for livestock has made him a respected figure in the academic and agricultural communities.

Publications

Dr. Khejornsart has published a number of impactful research papers in leading journals related to animal science and nutrition. Below are a few of his significant publications:

  1. Wanapat, M., P. Khejornsart, P. Parkdee, and S. Wanapat. (2008). Effect of supplementation of garlic powder on rumen ecology and digestibility of nutrients in ruminants. J Sci Food Agric, 88(13), 2231-2237.
  2. Khejornsart, P. and M. Wanapat. (2010). Diversity of rumen anaerobic fungi and methanogenic archaea in swamp buffalo influenced by various diets. J Anim Vet Adv, 9(24), 3062-3069.
  3. Khejornsart, P. and M. Wanapat. (2011). Effect of various chemical-treated rice straw on rumen fermentation characteristics using in vitro gas production technique. Livestock Research for Rural Development, 23(1).
  4. Khejornsart, P., M. Wanapat, and P. Rowlinson. (2011). Diversity of anaerobic fungi and rumen fermentation characteristic in swamp buffalo and beef cattle fed on different diets. Livestock Science, 139(3), 230-236.
  5. Khejornsart, P., Anusorn Cherdthong, and Metha Wanapat. (2021). In vitro screening of plant materials to reduce ruminal protozoal population and mitigate ammonia and methane emissions. Fermentation, 7(3), 166.
  6. Khejornsart, P., Teerayut Jantanam, and Watcharawit Meenongyai. (2021). Effect of type of treated rice straw on ruminal fermentation characteristic and cellulolytic bacteria of swamp buffalo. Buffalo Bulletin, 40(4), 599-608.
  7. Gunun, P., Cherdthong, A., Khejornsart, P., Wanapat, M., et al. (2022). The effect of phytonutrients in Terminalia chebula on rumen fermentation efficiency, nitrogen utilization, and protozoal population in goats. Animals, 12(16).

These publications are well-regarded in the field of ruminant nutrition and have been widely cited for their contributions to improving livestock management and feed utilization.

Conclusion

Dr. Pichad Khejornsart’s academic and professional journey reflects his passion for advancing animal science, particularly in the area of ruminant nutrition. Through his extensive research, he has developed methods to improve the efficiency of feed utilization, enhance livestock productivity, and minimize the environmental impact of animal agriculture. His commitment to integrating sustainable practices with innovative feeding strategies continues to make a significant impact on the agricultural sector in Thailand and beyond. Dr. Khejornsart’s contributions to animal science are set to inspire future advancements in the field, particularly in sustainable livestock farming practices.

 

PERUMAL SIDDHURAJU | Environemntal Food Security | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic Achievements

Prof Dr.PERUMAL SIDDHURAJU | Environemntal Food Security | Best Researcher Award 

Professor and Head Department of Environmental Sciences,School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore- 641046, India

Dr. P. Siddhuraju is a distinguished Professor and Head of the Department of Environmental Sciences at Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, India. With a career spanning over 30 years, he has made significant contributions to environmental science and resource technology. His research focuses on bioresource potential, environmental food security, sewage wastewater reuse, microplastic pollution, and zero-waste agroecosystems. Dr. Siddhuraju has held prominent positions in academia and research globally, including roles in Germany and Spain. His achievements have earned him recognition as one of the top 2% scientists in the world.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Siddhuraju completed his Ph.D. in Botany from Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, in 1994 with high commendation. He earned his M. Phil. in Botany from the same university in 1990, following an M.Sc. in Botany from Annamalai University in 1988. His academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Botany from Gobi Arts and Science College in 1986.

Experience

Dr. Siddhuraju’s extensive career includes significant roles across various institutions. He began as a Senior Research Fellow and later worked as a Research Associate at Bharathiar University. His international experience includes post-doctoral research in Spain and Germany, where he served as an Alexander von Humboldt Fellow and Senior Scientist. He has been a Professor and Head at Bharathiar University since 2016, and has also served as the Dean of Research. His professional journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing environmental sciences.

Research Interests

Dr. Siddhuraju’s research primarily revolves around environmental science and bioresource technology. His interests include the bioresource potential of underutilized crops, environmental food security, sewage wastewater reuse, microplastic pollution, and zero-waste agroecosystems. He investigates the impact of neglected crops on soil fertility, livestock management, and agroecosystem sustainability, while also exploring the effects of microplastic pollution on the environment and agriculture.

Awards

Dr. Siddhuraju has received numerous accolades, including:

  • International Distinguished Research Excellence Award 2022 in Environmental Sciences.
  • Recognition as one of the top 2% scientists in India in the field of Environmental Food Security by Stanford University (2021).
  • Awarded E-Membership of the Society of Chemical Industry, London (2021).
  • Various fellowships from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and the Spanish Ministry of Education & Science.

Publications

Dr. Siddhuraju has contributed to numerous publications in prestigious journals. Notable articles include:

  • “Impact of Underutilized Crops on Environmental Food Security” published in Frontiers in Nutrition (2022). Link to publication
  • “Microplastic Pollution in Sewage Wastewater” in Environmental Science & Technology (2021). Link to publication