Yu Zhang | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yu Zhang | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Researcher South Asian Tropical Crops Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences China
Zhang Yu is a dedicated Assistant Researcher at the Tropical Food Crops Research Center, part of the South Asian Tropical Crops Research Institute under the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences. Specializing in potato adversity stress research, he has contributed significantly to understanding plant resilience. His work bridges advanced molecular research with practical applications in tropical agriculture.

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Education 🎓

Zhang Yu earned his Bachelor of Science and a PhD in fields related to plant sciences. His rigorous academic training has equipped him with expertise in molecular biology, genetics, and crop science, forming a solid foundation for his groundbreaking research in potato stress resistance.

Experience đź’Ľ

With extensive experience in research and project management, Zhang Yu has successfully hosted 4 provincial and ministerial-level projects, including investigations into the molecular mechanisms of heat resistance in potatoes. His experience spans from analyzing pathogenicity in bacterial wilt to identifying heat-resistance genes, showcasing his ability to tackle complex agricultural challenges.

Research Interests 🔬

Zhang Yu’s primary research focus is on potato adversity stress mechanisms, including responses to high temperatures and bacterial wilt. His interest lies in the molecular and genetic basis of plant stress resilience, with the ultimate goal of developing heat-resistant and disease-resistant potato varieties for tropical climates.

Awards and Recognitions 🏆

Zhang Yu has received numerous accolades for his innovative research, including funding from the Hainan Provincial Natural Science Foundation and recognition for his contributions to tropical agriculture research. His leadership in provincial and institutional projects highlights his excellence in the field.

Publications Top Notes: 📚

Zhang Yu has published 7 high-impact research papers as the first or corresponding author. Below are select publications:

Zhang Yu et al., Molecular Mechanisms of Potato StMAPKK1 in Heat Stress Response, 2021, Journal of Plant Biology. Cited by 15 articles.

Zhang Yu et al., Pathogenicity of Potato Bacterial Wilt in Hot Regions, 2022, Agricultural Research Journal. Cited by 10 articles.

Zhang Yu et al., Phylogenetic Analysis of Solanaceae Bacterial Wilt, 2022, International Journal of Plant Sciences. Cited by 12 articles.

Zhang Yu et al., Role of StMKK5 in High-Temperature Resistance of Potato, 2023, Plant Molecular Biology Journal. Cited by 8 articles.

Dali Francis | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Women Researcher Award

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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.

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đź“š 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

đź’Ľ 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)

đź“„ 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.