Fereshteh Abbasi | Horticulture | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Fereshteh Abbasi | Horticulture | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Fereshteh Abbasi | Horticulture | Researcher at University of Tehran | Iran

Horticulture Dr. Fereshteh Abbasi is a dedicated horticultural scientist whose academic journey and professional career reflect her deep commitment to advancing greenhouse and ornamental-plant cultivation. Dr. Fereshteh Abbasi earned her PhD in Horticultural Sciences (specializing in physiology of production and post-harvest horticultural plants) from the University of Tehran, Department of Horticultural Sciences and Landscape Engineering, Karaj, Iran, where she completed a doctoral thesis titled “Optimization of Soilless Culture Systems and Nutritional Demand to Improve Morph-Physiological Parameters of Lilium OT Hybrid cv. ‘Zambesi’” with a high GPA of 18.60 and full top-grades in all courses including Flowering Physiology, Growth and Function Physiology, Physiology of Absorption and Transmission, Biotechnology, Modeling in Horticulture, Advanced Statistical Methods, and Quality in Horticultural Products. Prior to that, she completed a Master’s in Horticultural Sciences (Physiology and Breeding of Flowers and Ornamental Plants) at Arak University, graduating first in her department with GPA 18.22, for her thesis on the “Effect of foliar application of salicylic acid and benzyl adenine on some physiological and biochemical traits of Lilium cultivar ‘Navona’.” Her foundational education began with a Bachelor’s in Agricultural Engineering (Agriculture and Plant Breeding) from Zanjan University, where she also achieved top grades including for her Agricultural pilot projects. Professionally, Dr. Fereshteh Abbasi serves as a visiting lecturer at Qom Scientific-Applied University, bringing her expertise to higher-education teaching. She has been a distinguished consultant for greenhouse cultivation of ornamental plants and cut flowers, helping growers optimize flower production, especially lilies and other ornamental species. She has also operated as a greenhouse products manufacturer—producing cut lilies and greenhouse vegetables (tomato, cucumber, and other vegetables); earlier in her career she worked as a cotton farm supervisor and was employed by the Natural Resources Department of Qom Province, Iran. Her core research interests span greenhouse horticulture, ornamental and flowering plants, controlled-environment agriculture, plant physiology, plant nutrition, agricultural systems, and tissue culture/biotechnology. She is proficient in analytical and research tools such as SAS, SPSS, Microsoft Office, and has passed the UTEPT (University of Tehran English-language exam) with a score of 60. Over her academic career, Dr. Fereshteh Abbasi has received multiple recognitions: during her PhD she ranked among the top national candidates in entrance examinations (top half percent), secured first or second rank within her department, and was awarded a full scholarship (tuition waiver) from University of Tehran; in her Master’s she also held first rank in her department; additionally she has been honored as an acclaimed female entrepreneur in her province for her successful greenhouse and cut-flower business. Dr. Fereshteh Abbasi’s work demonstrates a robust integration of academic excellence, practical horticultural production, and applied research—particularly in soilless and controlled-environment systems for ornamental and horticultural crops. Her education and hands-on experience combine to create a professional profile deeply rooted in both theory and practice, making her a valuable researcher, educator, consultant and practitioner in modern horticulture.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Abbasi, F., Khandan-Mirkohi, A., Ahmad, A. H., Kafi, M., & Shokrpour, M. (2024). Optimization of Aeroponic and Ultrasonic Soilless Culture Systems in Terms of Timing and Growth Characteristics of Lilium OT Hybrid. International Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology, 11(2), 269–284.
Abbasi, F., Khandan-Mirkohi, A., Hajiahmad, A., Kafi, M., Shokrpour, M., Nicola, S., & Devecchi, M. (2025). Evaluation of Lily Response to Different Proportions of Calcium and Ammonium in Nutrient Solutions of Soilless Culture Systems. Horticulturae, 11(12), 1460.

Dr. Fatemeh Ahmadnia | Physiological Botany | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Fatemeh Ahmadnia | Physiological Botany | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Fatemeh Ahmadnia, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran

Fatemeh Ahmadnia is an Iranian plant physiologist specializing in sustainable agriculture, nanotechnology applications in crop production, and abiotic stress mitigation. She earned her Ph.D. in Agrotechnology–Plant Physiology from the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, where her research focused on enhancing spinach yield and ecosystem services through balanced cover crops. Fatemeh’s work integrates cover crop systems with advanced techniques like green-synthesized nanoparticles to improve seed germination, soil health, and crop resistance to salinity and drought. She has experience as a lecturer, research advisor, and laboratory project manager, and has collaborated internationally through the Erasmus+ program. Her research contributes to sustainable food production and environmental resilience in agriculture.

Professional Profile:

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award:

Fatemeh Ahmadnia is a plant physiologist and researcher specializing in the application of nanotechnology to improve crop resilience under abiotic stresses such as salinity and drought. She earned her Ph.D. in Agrotechnology–Plant Physiology from the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, where her research focused on enhancing spinach yield and ecosystem services through cover crops. Her expertise includes nanoparticle synthesis, green nanotechnology, weed management, and sustainable agriculture. Fatemeh has served as a lecturer, research project manager, and advisor to graduate students. She has also participated in international research through the Erasmus+ program at the University of Granada, Spain.

🎓 Education

  • 🧪 Ph.D. in Agrotechnology – Plant Physiology (2019–2024)
    University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
    Thesis: Managing ecosystem services and spinach yield using mixed cover crops
    Supervisor: Dr. Ali Ebadi

  • 🌾 M.Sc. in Agricultural Engineering – Agronomy (2016–2018)
    University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
    Thesis: Nitrogen release trends in mixed vs. monoculture cover crops
    Supervisor: Dr. Ali Ebadi

  • 🌱 B.Sc. in Agricultural Science Engineering (2007–2012)
    Payame Noor University, Ardabil, Iran

💼 Work Experience

  • 🧑‍🔬 Visiting Researcher (2024–Present)
    University of Mohaghegh Ardabili
    Focus: Plant Production, Genetics, Nanotechnology in Agriculture
    Supervisors: Dr. Ali Ebadi & Dr. Mohammad Taghi Alebrahim

  • ⚗️ Laboratory Researcher & Project Manager (2023–Present)
    Giah Gostar Liam Pooywsh, Ardabil
    Tasks: Synthesis of nanoparticles, soil and plant physiology analysis, plant extract extraction

  • 👩‍🏫 Lecturer (Spring Semester 2023–2024)
    University of Mohaghegh Ardabili
    Course: Skills Training 2 (Agrotechnology) for undergraduates

  • 🌍 Erasmus+ KA107 Exchange Program Student (May–July 2022)
    University of Granada, Spain
    Gained experience in soil chemistry and trace element analysis

  • 📘 Advisor for MSc & Ph.D. Students (2017–Present)
    Topics include weed management, nanoparticle effects, allelopathy, and organic crop production

🏆 Achievements & Awards

  • 🧬 Supervised multiple thesis projects focused on cutting-edge topics like:

    • Nanoparticle-assisted germination under drought and salinity 🌱💧

    • Organic potato and lettuce production 🥔🥬

    • Natural weed control through plant extracts 🌼

  • 🔬 Lead researcher on numerous funded research projects, including:

    • Nanopriming in cowpea, faba bean, and Sunn hemp using TiO₂ and Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles

    • Green synthesis of TiO₂ nanoparticles for eco-friendly weed control

    • Impact studies of salinity/drought on seed germination and soil properties

  • 🌐 Published and active profiles on ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

  • 🌿 Expertise in: Sustainable agriculture, nanotech in agri-sciences, abiotic stress tolerance, green nanoparticle synthesis, and ecosystem service management.

Publication Top Notes:

Investigating the short time effect of cover crops on physical and biological properties of soil

CITED:24

Evaluation of techniques to break seed dormancy in Redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus)

CITED:4

Investigating the effectiveness of Sunn Hemp (Crotalaria juncea) and Rye (Secale cereal L.) in weed suppression and yield of Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea var. Gongylodes)

CITED:3

The effect of winter cover crops on plant density, biomass of weeds and potato yield (Solanum tuberosum L.)

CITED:3

Evaluation of Short-Term Effect of Oat (Avena sativa L.) and Chickling Pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) Cover Crops on Improving some Soil Properties

CITED:3

 

Jones Napaldet | Plant Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jones Napaldet | Plant Biology | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Benguet State University | Philippines

Jones T. Napaldet serves as an Associate Professor V in the Biology Department at the College of Natural Sciences (CNS) at Benguet State University (BSU). His academic journey and professional endeavors are a testament to his profound commitment to the fields of plant ecology and environmental science. With a career spanning over a decade, Jones has become a pivotal figure in the study of tropical forests and ecological systems in the Philippines. His role at BSU is characterized by a dual focus on high-quality education and impactful research. As an Associate Professor V, he not only imparts knowledge to his students but also spearheads significant research initiatives that address pressing environmental issues. Jones’s work is marked by a dedication to advancing scientific understanding and fostering sustainable practices within his community and beyond. His position at BSU enables him to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application, ensuring that his contributions to the field have tangible benefits for environmental management and conservation efforts. Through his leadership in research projects and his involvement in various academic committees, Jones has established himself as a respected scholar and educator. His commitment to excellence in both teaching and research has earned him recognition and respect within the academic community.

Profile

ORCID

Education

Jones T. Napaldet’s educational background is distinguished by his achievements in environmental science and biology. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (BSES) from Benguet State University in 2008, graduating magna cum laude. This foundational degree provided him with a robust understanding of environmental systems and the importance of conservation. Following his undergraduate studies, Jones pursued further education to deepen his expertise in the biological sciences. In 2013, he completed his Master of Science in Biology, also at Benguet State University, where he honed his skills in research and developed a specialization in plant ecology. His academic journey culminated in 2019 with a Doctorate in Botany, majoring in Plant Ecology, from the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB). This advanced degree allowed him to explore complex ecological concepts and contribute original research to the field. His doctoral research focused on the intricate interactions between plant species and their environments, providing valuable insights into ecosystem dynamics and biodiversity. The combination of his undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies has equipped Jones with a comprehensive understanding of environmental science and plant ecology, enabling him to conduct influential research and contribute to the academic community.

Experience

Jones T. Napaldet’s professional experience is marked by a series of roles that reflect his expertise and commitment to environmental science and education. Since 2024, he has served as an Associate Professor V in the Biology Department at Benguet State University, where he teaches and mentors students while leading research initiatives. His role involves not only delivering lectures and guiding research projects but also contributing to the academic development of the department. Prior to his current position, Jones held several notable roles that showcased his leadership and research capabilities. From 2014 to the present, he has been a Study Leader and Project Leader for various research studies at the Institute of Social Research and Development (ISRD), the College of Social Sciences and the College of Arts and Sciences at BSU. These roles involved overseeing research projects, managing teams, and ensuring the successful completion of studies related to environmental science and plant ecology. Additionally, Jones served as the College Secretary at the College of Arts and Sciences, Benguet State University, from November 17, 2014, to July 31, 2015. In this capacity, he was responsible for administrative tasks and supporting the college’s academic programs. His earlier roles included being an Environmental Science Instructor 1 at the Department of Biology, CAS, BSU from June 6, 2011, to 2017, where he taught courses and conducted research. He also worked as a Research Assistant for the Institute of Social Research and Development (ISRD) and the Fish-Shell Project at BSU from April 15, 2010, to June 2011 and from July 1, 2008, to March 2010. These roles provided him with hands-on experience in research and fieldwork. Jones’s diverse experience in teaching, research, and administration has significantly contributed to his expertise and influence in the field of environmental science.

Research Interests

Jones T. Napaldet’s research interests are centered on plant ecology, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability. His work explores the intricate relationships between plant species, their habitats, and the impacts of human activities on these ecosystems. One of his primary research interests is understanding how human disturbance affects floral diversity in tropical forests. This includes investigating the effects of deforestation, land use changes, and other anthropogenic factors on plant communities and ecosystem health. Jones is also deeply engaged in studying the interplay between soil properties, elevation, and plant diversity in riparian ecosystems. His research aims to unravel how these factors influence plant communities and contribute to ecosystem resilience. Additionally, Jones is involved in documenting traditional knowledge related to indigenous herbs and traditional healing practices. This aspect of his research seeks to preserve and promote the use of traditional ecological knowledge while also exploring its relevance to modern environmental and health practices. Through his research, Jones aims to contribute to the broader understanding of ecological systems and support efforts to enhance environmental conservation and sustainability.

Awards

Jones T. Napaldet’s academic and professional achievements have been recognized through various awards and honors. Notably, he graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Benguet State University in 2008. This distinction reflects his exceptional academic performance and dedication to his studies. The magna cum laude honor is a testament to his commitment to excellence and his strong foundation in environmental science. His educational accomplishments have provided him with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in his research and teaching roles. While his educational achievements are particularly noteworthy, Jones’s contributions to his field have also been recognized through various research grants and project funding. His ongoing research projects, such as those focused on environmental studies and floral diversity, have garnered support from funding agencies and academic institutions. These awards and recognitions underscore his impact on the field of environmental science and his commitment to advancing knowledge and addressing environmental challenges.

Publications

Jones T. Napaldet has contributed extensively to the scientific literature through a range of publications in esteemed journals. His research has been featured in several high-impact journals, reflecting the significance of his work in the field of environmental science and plant ecology. Some of his notable publications include:

Development of endemicity and conservation importance indices for tropical forests and the floral diversity assessment of Mt. Natoo in Benguet, Philippines
Bullong JRT, Silverio JP, Alafag JI, Guron MA, Napaldet JT
Mountain Journal of Science, March 2024

Plant species and ecosystem diversity along national road in mountain sites: The case of Kennon Road in Cordillera Central Range, Philippines
Napaldet JT
Taiwania, October 2023

Intensities of human disturbance dictate the floral diversity in tropical forest: the case of a secondary forest in Benguet, Philippines
DA Balangen, MS Catones, JM Bayeng, JT Napaldet
Mountain Journal of Science, June 2023

Mosaic interplay of floral diversity, soil properties, disturbance intensity and elevation in the riparian ecosystem under semi‑subsistence agriculture of Cordillera Central Range, Northern Philippines
MM Dulnuan, JT Napaldet
Aquatic Ecology, June 2023

Taxonomic and Ecological Notes on Gaultheria cumingiana S.Vidal (Ericaceae) from the Cordillera Central Range, Northern Philippines
Joanna I. Alafag, Jones T. Napaldet
Taiwania, 2022

Boesenbergia igorota (Zingiberaceae), a new species from the Cordillera Central Range, Northern Philippines
Rene Vincent B. Tad-o, Joanna I. Alafag, Jones T. Napaldet
Taiwania, 2022

Floral diversity of Intek River in Tuba, Benguet, Northern Philippines
Domelson A. Balangen, Melchor S. Catones, Jane M. Bayeng, Jones T. Napaldet
Journal of Wetlands Biodiversity, 2021

Lead and mercury uptake in dominant macrophytes of Balili River, Benguet, Philippines
Jones T. Napaldet, Inocencio E. Buot Jr.
Journal of Wetlands Biodiversity, 2020

Vascular plant diversity in Benguet State University La Trinidad Main Campus, Philippines: A status report and a database to support the attainment of sustainable development
Jhunedy M. Antonio, Margarette M. Bacate, Jackson L. Butag, Sheinalene M. Ladoan, Gina D. Vicente, Jones T. Napaldet
Journal of Wetlands Biodiversity, 2020

Distribution and morpho-anatomical characterization of ‘Beket’ (Coriaria japonica subsp. intermedia (Matsum) T. C. Huanh) in Cordillera Central Range, Northern Philippines
Maricel A. Guron, Jones T. Napaldet
Journal of Mountain Science,