Dr. Dali Francis | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Women Researcher Award

postdoctor uae uniuversity United Arab Emirates

Dr. Dali Vilma Francis is a postdoctoral fellow specializing in biotechnology with expertise in microbiology, nano fertilizers, and controlled environment agriculture. Based in Dubai, UAE, Dr. Francis leverages her diverse skill set in nanotechnology, microbiology, and horticulture to drive sustainable agricultural innovation. Her focus includes optimizing plant growth with nanoparticles, enhancing post-harvest technology, and advancing eco-friendly microbial research.

Profile

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📚 Education

• Ph.D. in Biotechnology (2023) – BITS Pilani Dubai Campus
• Master of Biotechnology (2006) – M.G. University, Kerala
• Bachelor of Biotechnology (2004) – M.G. University, Kerala
• Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Research – CROME, India

💼 Experience

• Postdoctoral Fellow (Aug 2023–present), UAE University, Al Ain: Working on biosynthesis of nanoparticles from plants, algae, and bacteria, including nano-fertilizer development for hydroponic systems.
• Doctoral Scholar (Jan 2018–Apr 2023), BITS Pilani, Dubai: Conducted independent research projects, assisted in teaching microbiology and downstream processing, and mentored B.E. Biotechnology students.
• Teacher & Coordinator (2015–2018), GEMS Winchester School, Dubai: Delivered chemistry instruction, managed curriculum updates, and coordinated teaching methods.
• Lecturer, MSc Biotechnology (2009–2013), Aquinas College, Kerala: Taught biotechnology courses and developed materials to enhance student learning experiences.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Francis’s research includes nanotechnology applications in agriculture, plant-microbe interactions, and sustainable agriculture techniques. She focuses on nano fertilizer synthesis, microgreen cultivation, microbial genetics, and bioremediation to address global food security and environmental challenges.

🏆 Awards and Honors

• Promoted to Postdoctoral Fellow at UAE University (Dec 2023)
• Best Oral Presenter at ICES, Dubai (Nov 2023)
• Best Researcher Award on BITS Research Day (May 2021)
• Best Teacher Award for exceptional work with SEND students, GEMS Winchester (2017)
• Department Head Promotion in Biotechnology, Aquinas College (2012)

📄 Publications Top Notes:

Francis, D.V., et al., “Optimizing germination conditions of Ghaf seed using ZnO nanoparticle priming,” Scientific Reports, 2024. Cited by 25 articles

Francis, D.V., et al., “Nanoparticle-Enhanced Plant Defense Mechanisms for Sustainable Crop Protection,” in Nanoparticles in Plant Biotic Stress Management, 2024.

Francis, D.V., et al., “Sustainable packaging materials for probiotic foods,” AIMS Microbiology, 2024.

Francis, D.V., et al., “Metallic Nanoparticle Integrated Ternary Polymer Blend for Food Packaging,” Polymers, 2022.