Jayateertha Diwan | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Jayateertha Diwan | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka | India

Prof. Dr. Jayateertha Diwan is a distinguished agricultural scientist recognized for his extensive contributions to plant breeding, genetics, and crop improvement, with a strong focus on rice and other major field crops. His research integrates classical breeding, molecular biology, and biotechnology to enhance crop performance, develop stress-tolerant varieties, and improve resource-use efficiency. He has led and contributed to innovative studies on early vigor traits, yield-enhancing QTLs, nutrient-use efficiency, salinity tolerance, and direct-seeded rice systems, employing advanced tools such as SSR markers, MAS, genomic resources, and next-generation sequencing. His work spans germplasm characterization, multi-location trials, A/B/R line development, trait-specific molecular analysis, and breeding strategy design aligned with farmer and market needs. Professionally, he has held progressive leadership roles involving teaching, research, extension, academic management, and guidance of postgraduate and doctoral scholars across plant breeding, molecular breeding, crop genomics, and biotechnology. His experience also includes collaborative research in national and international programs, participation in multi-institutional projects, and contributions to genome sequencing initiatives involving wild rice and microbial species. He has served as a breeder, scheme head, research project investigator, and expert trainer in various advanced workshops and capacity-building programs, contributing to the scientific community through high-impact publications, project leadership, academic services, and active involvement in research on integrated farming systems, stress physiology, molecular diagnostics, and precision crop improvement. His professional journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing agricultural science, improving crop productivity, and translating research innovations for sustainable farming and societal benefit.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Diwan, J. R., Mahadevaswamy,., Patil, S., Bhanu, D., Devi, K. L., Hegde, S. N., Krishnaraj, P. U., Namitha, R., Pradhan, B. B., & Vashisht, D. (2025). Genome characterization of Acinetobacter species from the rice rhizosphere: A potential plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). Current Genetics.

Kavyashree, N. M., Diwan, J. R., Mahantashivayogayya, K., Lokesha, R., & Naik, N. M. (2022). Micro-morphological diversity of rice (Oryza sativa L.) as seen under foldscope. Environment Conservation Journal.

Kariyanna, B., Prabhuraj, A., Mohan, M., Bheemanna, M., Kalmath, B., Pampanna, Y., & Diwan, J. R. (2020). Insecticide usage pattern and evolution of resistance in eggplant shoot and fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guenée (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in India. Plant Archives. (EID: 2-s2.0-85090445715)

Umar Farooq, M. S., Diwan, J. R., Mahantashivayogayya, K., Kulkarni, V. V., & Shakuntala, N. M. (2019). Genetic evaluation of rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes for yield and nutritional quality traits. Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences, 7(2), 117–127.

Muniswamy, S., Lokesha, R., Yamanura, R., Ramesh,., & Diwan, J. R. (2017). Stability for disease, genotype × environment interaction for yield and its components in pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.]. Legume Research.

Palash Mandal | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Palash Mandal | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Charusat | India

Prof. Palash Mandal is a Professor of Biological Sciences at the P. D. Patel Institute of Applied Sciences, CHARUSAT University. His research primarily focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying liver diseases, with particular emphasis on alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver disorders. He investigates oxidative stress, inflammation, gut microbiota modulation, and toll-like receptor signaling to identify potential therapeutic targets for hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. His work also explores the role of cytokines, innate immunity, and apoptosis in liver pathology, as well as the development of biomarkers and proteomic profiling for liver diseases. In addition, his research extends to studying metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes, especially their interplay with liver dysfunction. Prof. Mandal has published extensively in high-impact journals, contributing to advancements in hepatology, molecular biosciences, and inflammation biology. He has been actively involved in several funded research projects supported by national science agencies and has supervised numerous PhD and postgraduate students. Beyond research, he holds significant editorial responsibilities as Associate or Academic Editor for several international journals, including Frontiers in Gastroenterology, PLOS ONE, Mediators of Inflammation, and Discovery Applied Sciences. His professional affiliations span leading scientific societies such as the Society for Leukocyte Biology, the International Society for Hepatic Sinusoidal Research, and the Indian National Association for the Study of the Liver. Prof. Mandal’s scientific contributions bridge fundamental biology and clinical relevance, aiming to develop innovative therapeutic strategies for liver-related and metabolic diseases.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Gori, P. V., Raval, M., Patel, S., Patel, A., Solanki, N., Patel, P., Nandpal, M., Mandal, P., & Aghara, H. (2025, December). Argyreia nervosa (Brum.f.) Bojer. alleviates diabetes mellitus-induced male infertility. Molecular Biology Reports.

Sonavane, B., Chadha, P., Andhare, P., Dube, S., Singh, N. K., Mandal, P., Amin, S., & Madamwar, D. (2025, November). Phycoerythrin from Aulosira fertilissima: A bioactive macromolecule for longevity and neuroprotection in SH-SY5Y cells and Caenorhabditis elegans. Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology.

Sharma, D., Vaishnav, B. S., Pandey, N., & Mandal, P. (2025, September 30). Hepatic steatosis: Associated rs2954029 and rs2605100 genetic factors in an Indian population. Discover Applied Sciences.

Chadha, P., Aghara, H., Johnson, D., Sharma, D., Odedara, M., Patel, M., Kumar, H., Thiruvenkatam, V., & Mandal, P. (2025, July). Gardenin A alleviates alcohol-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in HepG2 and Caco2 cells via AMPK/Nrf2 pathway. Bioorganic Chemistry.

Aghara, H., Samanta, S., Patel, M., Chadha, P., Patel, D., Jha, A., & Mandal, P. (2025, July 9). Silver nanoparticles synthesized from Enicostemma littorale exhibit gut tight junction restoration and hepatoprotective activity via regulation of the inflammatory pathway. Pharmaceutics, 17(7), 895.

Anju Kumari | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Anju Kumari | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

SGGS KHALSA COLLEGE MAHILPUR, INDIA

Dr. Anju Kumari is an accomplished researcher in Molecular Biology and Cytogenetics, with a specialization in infectious disease genetics, particularly tuberculosis. she holds Indian citizenship and is fluent in English, Hindi, and Punjabi.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. (Zoology, Molecular Biology & Cytogenetics) – Panjab University, Chandigarh

  • M.Sc. (Zoology, Honours) – Panjab University, Chandigarh

  • B.Sc. (Zoology, Botany, Chemistry) – Govt. College for Women, Ludhiana

  • Diploma in Pharmacy – GGNK College of Pharmacy, Ludhiana

🧪 Research Expertise:

Specialization:
🔬 Molecular Biology
🧬 Cytogenetics
🧫 Human Genetics
🧟 Infectious Diseases (Focus: Tuberculosis)

Research Interests:

  • Gene expression studies

  • Cytokine and transcription factor analysis in TB

  • Molecular diagnostics and biomarkers

📚 Publications & Contributions:

  • 2 Book Chapters with CRC Press and Elsevier

  • 8+ Research Articles in peer-reviewed journals (Molecular Biology Reports, Human Gene, Biology Bulletin, etc.)

  • Ongoing research on NR1H3, ABCA1, IL-12A/B and genetic susceptibility to TB

  • Multiple manuscripts under peer review and in communication

🧑‍🏫 Teaching & Academic Service:

  • Former Assistant Professor (Adhoc) – Shri Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College, Punjab

  • Active in science education, webinars, and student mentoring

  • Delivered and presented research papers at national and international conferences

🏅 Awards & Achievements:

  • CSIR-UGC NET (Life Sciences) – Lectureship (2016) & JRF (2017)

  • CSIR-JRF Fellow during PhD (2018–2023)

  • Recognized contributor to national-level research symposia

🧭 Conferences, Workshops & Webinars:

  • Attended 30+ National & International webinars

  • Participated in GIAN, ISHG, STUTI, and Genome Informatics programs

  • Delivered oral/poster presentations at conferences hosted by Panjab University, Andhra University, and more

📌 Summary:

Dr. Anju Kumari is an emerging researcher in molecular genetics and infectious diseases, with a clear focus on the genetic basis of tuberculosis. Her strong publication record, competitive fellowships, and active engagement in scientific forums make her a promising candidate for recognition such as the Best Researcher Award.

Publication:

  • Role of Transcription Factor NR1H3 in the Pathogenesis of Tuberculosis

 

Manu Magar | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Manu Magar | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Scientist at National Biotechnology Research Centre, Nepal Agriculture Research Council, Nepal

Dr. Manu Maya Magar is a plant molecular biotechnologist from Nepal, currently serving as a Scientist at the National Biotechnology Research Center, Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC). She earned her Ph.D. in Plant Genetics from The University of Western Australia (2020–2024), where her research focused on gene-based analysis of heat stress tolerance in bread wheat.

Profile:

🎓 Educational Background:

  • Ph.D. (2020–2024) – The University of Western Australia, Australia
    Gene-based analysis of heat stress tolerance in wheat

  • M.Sc. Ag. in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (2010–2012) – Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, India

  • B.Sc. Ag. in Horticulture (2005–2009) – Tribhuvan University, Nepal

🧬 Research & Appointments:

  • 🧪 Scientist, National Biotechnology Research Center, NARC, Nepal (2014–Present)

  • 🔬 Research Assistant, The University of Western Australia (2021–2025)

  • 🤝 Former Deputy Country Coordinator, Terre des Hommes Germany – Nepal

  • 🌾 Focus areas: Heat stress tolerance, marker-assisted selection, genomics of wheat, maize, and soybean

📚 Publications:

Published in reputed journals including:

  • Frontiers in Plant Science

  • Journal of Plant Growth Regulation

  • Crop Journal

  • International Journal of Plant Biology

  • Contributed to global plant genomics and crop improvement research

🏆 Awards & Recognitions:

  • 🥇 GRS Travel Award | Mike Carroll Fellowship | Convocation Travel Award – UWA

  • 🎖️ Nepal Bidhya Bhusan Kha (Presidential Award, 2016)

  • 🏅 APNL Biotechnology Gold Medal, India

  • 🎓 Scholarships from Indian Embassy & IAAS, Nepal

🧠 Skills & Tools:

  • 💻 R, Linux, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Photoshop

  • 🌱 Molecular breeding, gene analysis, stress physiology

✨ Summary:

Dr. Manu Maya Magar is a dynamic plant scientist with expertise in molecular biology, heat stress genomics, and crop improvement. She brings over a decade of research excellence with impactful publications, international collaborations, and award-winning academic distinction.

📊 Citation Metrics (Google Scholar):

  • Total Citations: 76

  • Citations since 2020: 72

  • h-index: 5

  • h-index since 2020: 4

  • i10-index: 2

  • i10-index since 2020: 2

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Effect of PEG Induced Drought Stress on Germination and Seedling Traits of Maize (Zea mays L.) Lines
    Magar, M.M., Parajuli, A., Sah, B.P., Shrestha, J., Sakh, B.M., Koirala, K.B., et al.
    Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, 6(2): 196–205, 2019.
    Citations: 29

  2. Genome-Wide Analysis of AP2/ERF Superfamily Genes in Contrasting Wheat Genotypes Reveals Heat Stress-Related Candidate Genes
    Magar, M.M., Liu, H., Yan, G.
    Frontiers in Plant Science, 13: 853086, 2022.
    Citations: 26

  3. Dactylorhiza hatagirea: A Critical Issue for Research and Development in Nepal
    Magar, M.M., Dhital, S.P., Yamada, T., Pun, U.K.
    Nepal Journal of Science and Technology, 19(1): 26–38, 2020.
    Citations: 8

  4. Rice–Wheat Comparative Genomics: Gains and Gaps
    Wijerathna-Yapa, A., Bishnoi, R., Ranawaka, B., Magar, M.M., et al.
    The Crop Journal, 12(3): 656–669, 2024.
    Citations: 6

  5. Marker Assisted Selection for Identification of Recombinants for Bacterial Blight and Blast Resistance in Segregating Populations of Cottondora Sannalu
    Magar, M.M., Rani, C.V.D., Vanisree, S., Swathi, G., et al.
    ORYZA – An International Journal on Rice, 51(2): 105–115, 2014.
    Citations: 6

  6. In the Pursuit of Equality for Women Plant Breeders Around the World
    García, A.P.V., Wijerathna-Yapa, A., Mishra, S., Magar, M.M., et al.
    Women in Crop Science, 2022.
    Citations: 1

  7. Characterization of TaMYB Transcription Factor Genes Revealed Possible Early-Stage Selection for Heat Tolerance in Wheat
    Magar, M.M., Liu, H., Yan, G.
    International Journal of Plant Biology, 16(2): 41, 2025.
    Citations: —

  8. Identification of Soybean Mosaic Virus Resistant Soybean Genotypes Using Gene-Linked Markers
    Magar, M.M., Acharya, R., Aryal, L., Darai, R., Amgai, R.B., Shrestha, J.
    Agronomy Journal of Nepal, 8: 91–97, 2024.
    Citations: —

  9. Wheat TaAP2/ERF Genes Regulate Heat Tolerance Through Ethylene Signaling at Grain-Filling Stage
    Magar, M.M., Liu, H., Yan, G.
    Journal of Plant Growth Regulation, 43(8): 2855–2872, 2024.
    Citations: —

  10. Gene-Based Analysis of Heat Stress Tolerance in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) at Seedling and Reproductive Stages
    Magar, M.
    Doctoral Dissertation, The University of Western Australia, 2023.

 

Athar Mahmood | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Athar Mahmood | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor University of Agriculture Faisalabad Pakistan

Dr. Athar Mahmood is a seasoned agronomist and Associate Professor at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), Pakistan 🇵🇰. With a robust academic and research background spanning over 15 years, he has made substantial contributions in the domains of sustainable agriculture, biofertilizers, and bioenergy. Dr. Mahmood’s dedication to improving crop productivity under climate-stressed conditions has earned him national and international recognition, fellowships, and project funding. 🌱 His scholarly work bridges traditional agricultural practices with modern biotechnology, reflecting a commitment to sustainable food systems and environmental resilience. 🌍

Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

🎓 Education

Dr. Mahmood earned his Ph.D. in Agronomy from Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Germany (2007–2012), where he focused on sorghum as an energy crop. He completed his M.Sc. in Agronomy (2005–2007) and B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture (2001–2005) at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad. Earlier, he pursued intermediate (pre-medical) at Government Science College, Faisalabad (1999–2001) and matriculation in science from Government High School Salarwala (1996–1998). 📚

👨‍🏫 Experience

Currently serving as an Associate Professor at UAF, Dr. Mahmood has previously worked as an Assistant Professor at University of Sargodha (2012–2013). He undertook postdoctoral research at Southern University of Queensland (SUQ), Australia, supported by the Endeavor Fellowship (2016–2017), where he also held a visiting academic position. 🌏 His career also includes mentoring students, curriculum development, and active involvement in campus leadership and scientific committees.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Mahmood’s research focuses on sustainable agriculture, biofertilizer development, biogas production, and climate-smart farming. 🌾 He is particularly interested in biosaline agriculture, organic waste management, and the physiological response of crops under abiotic stresses. His multidisciplinary approach bridges agronomy, environmental sciences, and renewable energy, aiming to build more resilient agricultural systems.

🏆 Awards

Dr. Athar Mahmood has received numerous accolades including:

  • 🥇 Talented Young Scientist Program Award for Postdoctoral Study in China (2018–2019)
  • 🥈 Endeavor Fellowship (Australia) for postdoctoral studies at SUQ (2016–2017)
  • 🎓 HEC-DAAD Ph.D. Scholarship in Germany (2007–2012)
  • 🎖️ Visiting Academic position at University of Southern Queensland
  • ✅ Recognized as an HEC Approved Supervisor in Pakistan

📚 Publications Top Notes: 

Here are his recent impactful publications with links, publication years, journal names, and citations:

Mahmood, A. et al. (2025). Transforming field crops with CRISPR/Cas: a new era in genome editing. Rendiconti Lincei: Scienze Fisiche e Naturali.
Cited by: 5

Mahmood, A. et al. (2025). Impact of nitrogen, sulphur, and foliar applied thiourea on growth, oil yield, and fatty acid profile of canola. Polish Journal of Environmental Studies, 34(3), 2337–2347.
Cited by: 2

Mahmood, A. et al. (2025). Silicon-mediated modulation of maize growth, metabolic responses, and antioxidant mechanisms under saline conditions. BMC Plant Biology, 25(1), 3.
Cited by: 3

Mahmood, A. et al. (2024). Morphophysiological and biochemical assessment of cotton germplasm under salt stress. Cogent Food & Agriculture, 10(1).
Cited by: 4

Mahmood, A. et al. (2024). Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) and salinity stress in Citrus limon. Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology, 62.
Cited by: 1

Mahmood, A. et al. (2024). Salicylic acid improves salinity tolerance in barley. BMC Plant Biology, 24(1), 1–16.
Cited by: 6

Mahmood, A. et al. (2024). Thiourea boosts tomato yield under salt stress. Plants, 13(23), 3318.
Cited by: 2

Trehalose: A promising osmo-protectant against salinity stress—physiological and molecular mechanisms and future prospective

Mahmood, A. et al. (2024). Glutathione and zinc improve maize photosynthesis under water stress. Brazilian Journal of Botany, 47(3), 795–808.
Cited by: 1

Mahmood, A. et al. (2024). Heat stress responses and mitigation strategies in crops [link pending publication].