Sundeep Kumar | Molecular Breeding | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sundeep Kumar | Molecular Breeding | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sundeep Kumar | Molecular Breeding | Principal Scientist at ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources | India

Dr. Sundeep Kumar is a highly accomplished Principal Scientist in the field of plant biotechnology, with a career dedicated to advancing genetic improvement and sustainability in cereal crops. His expertise spans wheat genomics, molecular breeding, and plant biotechnology, where he has contributed to solving critical challenges such as heat tolerance, disease resistance, and grain quality. Through his pioneering work, he has become widely recognized as a leading researcher whose scientific output has bridged the gap between fundamental plant biology and applied crop improvement. His professional journey reflects continuous growth, dedication, and impact in global agricultural research.

Academic Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Sundeep Kumar pursued his academic foundation in plant sciences with a specialization in molecular biology and biotechnology. His advanced training enabled him to acquire in-depth knowledge of genetics, genomics, and breeding strategies, which later became the cornerstone of his research career. He further enhanced his expertise through research fellowships and international exposure, gaining proficiency in advanced technologies such as genome-wide association studies, quantitative trait nucleotide mapping, and KASP marker validation. His education not only prepared him for an academic and research career but also gave him the skills to address emerging agricultural challenges through molecular innovation.

Experience

Dr. Sundeep Kumar has served in a senior scientific capacity at a premier national research institution, where he has led projects in genomic resources, plant biotechnology, and molecular breeding. His leadership in multi-institutional and international collaborations has brought forward solutions for wheat improvement under climate stress conditions. He has overseen large-scale projects funded by leading scientific agencies, successfully integrating genomic discoveries into applied breeding programs. His experience is not limited to research but also extends to mentoring young scientists, guiding doctoral students, and contributing to the global research community through editorial and advisory roles. His professional experience reflects both scientific excellence and leadership in agricultural biotechnology.

Research Interest

The research interests of Dr. Sundeep Kumar lie in deciphering the genetic and molecular basis of complex traits in wheat and other cereals. He has extensively focused on identifying genomic regions associated with heat tolerance, disease resistance, grain quality, and yield stability. His work emphasizes the use of cutting-edge tools such as GWAS, high-throughput genotyping, and functional genomics for crop improvement. Another key area of his interest is understanding the role of plant defense mechanisms, including thermoregulation and hormone-mediated responses, in adaptive immunity. His research has strong translational value, directly contributing to sustainable food security by providing insights into climate-resilient agriculture.

Award

Dr. Sundeep Kumar has been recognized with several prestigious awards and honors for his outstanding contributions to plant biotechnology and crop improvement. His recognition by leading national and international organizations demonstrates the scientific and societal impact of his work. His contributions to wheat genomics, molecular breeding, and sustainable agricultural practices have not only advanced scientific knowledge but also influenced agricultural strategies at broader levels. His awards reflect his leadership, innovation, and dedication to addressing global challenges in agriculture.

Selected Publication

  • Unraveling the genetic basis of heat tolerance and yield in bread wheat: QTN discovery and Its KASP-assisted validation, BMC Plant Biology, 2025, 1 Citation.

  • Identification of quantitative trait nucleotides for grain quality in bread wheat under heat stress, Scientific Reports, 2025, 2 Citations.

  • Genetic dissection of leaf rust resistance in a diversity panel of tetraploid wheat (Triticum turgidum), BMC Plant Biology, 2025, 2 Citations.

  • Plant Defense Hormones: Thermoregulation and Their Role in Plant Adaptive Immunity, Journal of Plant Growth Regulation, 2025, 2 Citations.

Conclusion

Dr. Sundeep Kumar is an eminent researcher whose career reflects a blend of innovation, leadership, and societal relevance. His expertise in wheat genomics and plant biotechnology has generated significant advancements in crop science, especially in developing strategies for heat tolerance, disease resistance, and yield improvement. His numerous publications, high-level collaborations, and recognition through awards place him among the leading scientists shaping the future of sustainable agriculture. With a strong commitment to addressing global food security challenges, Dr. Sundeep Kumar continues to be a driving force in advancing plant biotechnology and molecular breeding.

Fevzi ALTUNER | Field Crops Cultivation and Breeding Science Field | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Fevzi ALTUNER | Field Crops Cultivation and Breeding Science Field | Best Researcher Award

Fevzi ALTUNER | Field Crops Cultivation and Breeding Science Field at Assistance Professor Doctor at Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Gevas Vocational School, Plant and Animal Production Department in Turkey

Dr. Fevzi Altuner is a highly regarded Assistant Professor at Van Yüzüncü Yıl University, specializing in Plant and Animal Production within the Department of Plant and Animal Production at Gevaş Vocational School. With over three decades of experience, Dr. Altuner’s career began as an Agricultural Technician, evolving through several managerial roles in the Ministry of Agriculture before entering academia. Since joining Van Yüzüncü Yıl University, he has significantly contributed to advancing agricultural science, particularly in Field Crops Cultivation and Breeding. His research outputs include numerous high-impact journal articles, book chapters, and conference presentations, and his work is widely recognized and cited by peers in the field.

Profile Verification

ORCID

Education

Dr. Altuner’s educational journey is rooted deeply in agricultural sciences, culminating in a Ph.D. from Van Yüzüncü Yıl University in the Department of Field Crops in 2017. His advanced training in field crops cultivation and breeding equipped him with essential knowledge and skills to tackle challenges in sustainable agriculture. This education laid a solid foundation for his teaching and research work, allowing him to blend academic rigor with practical applications in agricultural development.

Experience

Dr. Altuner’s professional career spans a broad spectrum of roles within agricultural science and management. After starting as an Agricultural Technician in 1993, he assumed various managerial positions in the Ministry of Agriculture, demonstrating strong leadership and expertise in agricultural policies and practices. His transition to academia in 2018 as an Assistant Professor allowed him to channel his expertise into teaching, research, and departmental leadership. Currently, as the head of the Department of Plant and Animal Production, he oversees educational and research initiatives, mentors students, and contributes to the broader academic community through collaborative projects and publications.

Research Interest

Dr. Altuner’s research primarily focuses on Field Crops Cultivation and Breeding, with an emphasis on cereal and grain legumes. His interests extend to investigating the biochemical properties and genetic potential of these crops under various environmental conditions, aiming to enhance yield and resilience. His recent studies explore the adaptation abilities of barley genotypes, effects of salinity on seed germination, and technological characteristics of beans, all aimed at improving crop quality and productivity. Dr. Altuner’s work reflects his commitment to addressing food security challenges and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Awards

Throughout his career, Dr. Altuner has received several accolades for his contributions to agricultural science. His innovative research has garnered institutional recognition and funding, allowing him to lead five university-supported projects. His commitment to scientific excellence is further evidenced by his high citation count and H-index scores, underscoring the impact and value of his work within the scientific community.

Publications

Altuner, F. (2024). “Antioxidant activity and biochemical contents of some cereal microgreens.” Cogent Food & Agriculture. Cited by 10.

Altuner, F., et al. (2024). “Determination of Polyphenolic Contents in Some Cereals and Legume Microgreens by Dualex Measurements.” Iğdır Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Enstitüsü Dergisi. Cited by 15.

Altuner, F., et al. (2023). “Exploring Adaptation Abilities of Barley Genotypes in Van Growing Conditions for Biomass and Grain Yield.” Yüzüncü Yıl Üniversitesi Tarım Bilimleri Dergisi. Cited by 8.

Altuner, F., et al. (2022). “Kimyasal Gübre ve Rizobakteri (PGPR) Kombinasyonlarının Arpa Çeşitlerinde Verim ve Verim Özellikleri Üzerine Etkileri.” MAS Journal of Applied Sciences. Cited by 12.

Altuner, F., et al. (2022). “Determination of Quality and Technological Characteristics of Some Bean Varieties.” Mustafa Kemal Üniversitesi Tarım Bilimleri Dergisi. Cited by 9.

Altuner, F. (2022). “Determination of Yield Components of Some Oat Cultivars in Eastern Anatolia by Correlation Analysis.” Polish Journal of Environmental Studies. Cited by 6.

Altuner, F., et al. (2021). “Germination Traits and Relationships among Traits of Local Wheat and Barley Populations in Lake Van Basin.” Iğdır Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Enstitüsü Dergisi. Cited by 11.

Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Fevzi Altuner’s distinguished career in agricultural research and education has made substantial contributions to the fields of plant and animal production. His extensive research on field crops and cereals has not only expanded scientific knowledge but also provided practical solutions to challenges in sustainable agriculture. With a commitment to academic excellence, a strong citation record, and significant teaching and mentorship roles, Dr. Altuner exemplifies the qualities of a Best Researcher Award candidate. His accomplishments make him a highly deserving contender for this recognition, as he continues to inspire advancements in agricultural science for future generations.