Jin Young Kim | Agri | Best Researcher Award

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

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.

 

 

Chenjing Han | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chenjing Han | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chenjing Han | Horticulture – Institute of Leisure Agriculture, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China

Dr. Han Chenjing is an accomplished researcher in the field of horticulture and agricultural sciences, with a focus on tree peonies, oilseed peonies, and plant breeding techniques. As an Associate Professor at the Institute of Leisure Agriculture, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, she has made significant contributions to optimizing plant cultivation, improving plant oil extraction methods, and enhancing flower landscaping. Her interdisciplinary research integrates molecular plant breeding, agronomic practices, and horticultural innovations, reflecting her dedication to advancing sustainable agricultural practices. With an extensive publication record, multiple patents, and numerous research projects, Dr. Han is recognized as a leading scientist in her field.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Han’s academic journey is marked by her strong foundation in forestry and plant sciences. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Shandong Agricultural University, specializing in forestry. She then pursued her doctoral studies at the Chinese Academy of Forestry, where she focused on advanced plant research and its industrial applications. Her postdoctoral training at the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences further refined her expertise in agricultural research, particularly in plant cultivation techniques and optimization strategies.

Experience

With a career spanning nearly a decade, Dr. Han has gained extensive experience in research and academia. She began as a postdoctoral researcher at the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, where she contributed to advancements in forestry and plant breeding. She then progressed to the role of Assistant Professor at the Cotton Research Center and Institute of Leisure Agriculture, where she played a key role in developing innovative horticultural techniques. Her international experience as a visiting scholar at the National Agriculture and Food Research Organization and Chiba University in Japan broadened her research scope, particularly in flower landscaping and conservation. Currently serving as an Associate Professor, Dr. Han continues to drive impactful research in horticultural sciences.

Research Interests

Dr. Han’s research interests lie at the intersection of horticulture, plant breeding, and agricultural sustainability. Her work primarily focuses on optimizing tree peony and oilseed peony cultivation, enhancing seed oil extraction techniques, and improving flower landscaping methodologies. She has also explored the impact of environmental factors, such as shading and nutrient management, on plant growth and productivity. Additionally, her studies in plant histochemistry and molecular breeding provide valuable insights into increasing agricultural efficiency and sustainability. Through her research, Dr. Han aims to contribute to global efforts in biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture.

Awards and Recognitions

Dr. Han’s contributions to agricultural research have been widely recognized. She has received the Shandong Natural Resources Science and Technology Award for her groundbreaking work in plant sciences. Her research excellence has also earned her the Shandong Postgraduate Excellent Scientific and Technological Innovation Achievement Award and the title of Outstanding Graduate of Shandong Province. These accolades underscore her dedication to advancing agricultural innovation and her significant impact on the field.

Selected Publications 📚

Han C J, Ji X Y, Wang Z W, et al. Innovative tree peony and herbaceous peony germplasm display balls with high application potential. Horticulturae, 2025, 11: 196. 🌿
Han C J, Li J, Wang L, et al. Optimization of grafting methods for oilseed tree peony. Molecular Plant Breeding, 2023, 21(17): 5878-5882. 🌱
Han C J, Liu C, Li J, et al. Nonlinear programming to optimize tree peony seed oil extraction. Molecular Plant Breeding, 2021-11-24. 🏵️
Han C J, Wang Q, Zhang H B, et al. Seed development and nutrient accumulation as affected by light shading in oilseed peony. Scientia Horticulturae, 2019, 251, 25-31. 🌾
Han C J, Wang Q, Wang S H, et al. Cultivation technique for high yield and quality of oilseed peony in Shandong province. World Journal of Forestry, 2017, 6(2): 36-40. 🌍
Han C J, Meng Q H, Chen X M, et al. Research and utilization progresses and industrial development strategies of oilseed peony in China. Shandong Agricultural Sciences, 2015, 47(10): 125-132. 📈
Han C J, Xing S Y, Dong Z K, et al. Studies on histochemistry of the developmental epiphyllous ovule in Ginkgo biloba var. epiphylla. Acta Horticulturae Sinica, 2011, 38(5): 817-824. 🌳

Conclusion

Dr. Han Chenjing is a distinguished researcher whose contributions to horticultural sciences have significantly advanced the field of plant breeding and agricultural sustainability. Her expertise in optimizing tree peony and oilseed peony cultivation, combined with her innovative approaches to plant oil extraction, has positioned her as a leading figure in her domain. Her extensive publication record, multiple patents, and research leadership highlight her dedication to scientific excellence. With numerous accolades recognizing her contributions, Dr. Han is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award, as she continues to shape the future of agricultural innovation and sustainability.

Filimon Mgandu | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Dr . Filimon Mgandu | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer College of Business Education Tanzania

Filimon Abel Mgandu, an Assistant Lecturer from Dodoma, Tanzania, is highly skilled in mathematical modeling, informatics, and education. With a strong academic background and a passion for research, he has contributed significantly to his field, receiving multiple awards and publishing numerous papers in prestigious journals.

profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Filimon completed his M.Sc. in Mathematical Modelling (2017-2019) with a GPA of 4.3/5.0 from the University of Dar es Salaam. He also holds a B.Sc. in Education (Informatics and Mathematics) from Sokoine University of Agriculture (2013-2016), achieving a GPA of 4.4/5.0. His earlier education includes an Advanced Certificate of Secondary Education from Njombe Secondary School and a Certificate of Secondary Education from Kidamali Secondary School.

Experience 💼

Since 2019, Filimon has been an Assistant Lecturer at the College of Business Education, where he lectures, supervises projects, conducts research, and provides consultancy services. Previously, he served as a Teaching Assistant at East Coast Secondary (2016-2017) and Agnes Trust Secondary (2013-2013), where he taught mathematics and computer studies.

Research Interests 🔍

Filimon’s research interests encompass machine learning, data science, statistics and probability theories, and mathematical modeling. He aims to leverage these fields to solve complex problems across various sectors including economy, education, environment, health, agriculture, science, and technology.

Awards 🏆

Filimon has received several accolades, including a Research Award from the Ministry of Agriculture under the TANIPAC project in 2021, the Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Memorial Scholarship Award (2019 and 2017) from the Bank of Tanzania, and the title of Overall Best Final Year Student in B.Sc. Education from Sokoine University of Agriculture in 2016.

Publications Top Notes📚

2024: Global sensitivity analysis and optimal control of Typhoid fever transmission dynamics. Mathematical Modelling and Analysis, 29(1), pp.141-160. DOI: 10.3846/mma.2024.17859

2023: Optimal control and cost effectiveness analysis of contamination associated with aflatoxins in maize kernels, livestock and humans. Results in Control and Optimization, 13(100313). DOI: 10.1016/j.rico.2023.100313

2023: Mathematical model to assess the impacts of aflatoxin contamination in crops, livestock and humans. Scientific African. DOI: 10.1016/j.sciaf.2023.e01980

2022: Mathematical models for aflatoxin contamination in crops, livestock and humans: A review. Commun. Math. Biol. Neurosci., Article ID 116. DOI: 10.3145/ijmsc.2020.03.03

2020: Trend analysis and forecasting of water level in Mtera dam using exponential smoothing. Int. J. Math. Sci. Comput, 4, pp.26-34. DOI: 10.5815/ijmsc.2020.04.03