Bong-Gyu Mun | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Bong-Gyu Mun | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award 

Assistant professor, at Chungbuk National University, South Korea.

Dr. Bong-Gyu Mun is an accomplished plant biologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental and Biological Chemistry at Chungbuk National University, South Korea. With a strong background in plant functional genomics and applied life sciences, he has extensively contributed to plant stress physiology, nanoparticle-based plant enhancement, and microbial interactions. Dr. Mun has held several prestigious research roles, including Postdoctoral and Research Professorship positions at Kyungpook National University and the Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory. His research is recognized internationally through numerous publications in top-tier journals, focusing on improving crop resilience through innovative biotechnological and biochemical strategies. Dr. Mun’s work bridges plant molecular biology with sustainable agriculture, aiming to address pressing global food security issues under climate stress. He remains deeply committed to mentoring students, promoting collaborative science, and translating his findings into practical applications in agriculture and crop biotechnology.

Professional Profile

Scopus

ORCID

Education 

Dr. Mun’s academic journey showcases a strong progression in the field of plant sciences. He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Applied Life Science from GyeongSang National University in 2010 and 2012, respectively. His master’s research focused on stress signaling pathways in plants. He further deepened his expertise with a Ph.D. in Plant Functional Genomics from Kyungpook National University in August 2017, where he specialized in understanding molecular mechanisms that regulate plant responses to abiotic stresses. His doctoral research laid the foundation for his current investigations into nanoparticle applications and microbial interactions in enhancing plant resilience. Throughout his academic career, Dr. Mun has consistently demonstrated excellence, participating in research programs that emphasize cutting-edge plant biotechnology and environmental stress adaptation.

 Experience 

Dr. Mun has gained extensive experience in plant molecular biology and biotechnology through a series of progressively advanced academic roles. He began as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology, Kyungpook National University (2017–2018, 2020–2021), and further contributed to the BK21 Plus Project at the same university (2018–2019). He also expanded his global exposure by working at Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory in Singapore (2019–2020), engaging in collaborative research on stress-resistant crops. From 2021 to 2023, he served as a Research Professor at Kyungpook National University. In 2023, Dr. Mun was appointed Assistant Professor at Chungbuk National University, where he now leads research and teaching activities focused on environmental and biological chemistry. His experience spans physiological, biochemical, and genetic approaches in plant science, underscoring his interdisciplinary expertise and leadership in plant stress adaptation.

Research Interest 

Dr. Mun’s research interests revolve around plant stress physiology, nanobiotechnology, and plant–microbe interactions. He explores how plants respond to abiotic stressors such as drought, salinity, and heavy metals, focusing on developing stress-resilient crops through biochemical modulators like nitric oxide, melatonin, and chitosan-based nanoparticles. His work investigates the molecular crosstalk between signaling pathways and the synergistic effects of bioformulations like fulvic acid, GSNO, and microbial biostimulants (e.g., PGPR). Recently, he has pioneered research in using nanocarriers for targeted delivery of stress-alleviating compounds, contributing significantly to sustainable agriculture. Dr. Mun is also intrigued by the role of rhizospheric bacteria and how they modulate hormonal and antioxidant responses in plants. Through integrative molecular and physiological approaches, he aims to bridge basic plant science with practical crop management techniques that can help combat the effects of climate change and ensure food security.

 Award 

Although specific individual awards are not listed in the given data, Dr. Bong-Gyu Mun’s track record of publication in high-impact journals and appointments at leading research institutions is evidence of his recognition in the academic and scientific community. His appointment as an Assistant Professor at Chungbuk National University in 2023 and his previous Research Professorship highlight the trust placed in his academic leadership. His work has also been published multiple times in prestigious international journals such as International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Physiologia Plantarum, Frontiers in Plant Science, and BMC Plant Biology, reflecting both the novelty and impact of his research. These achievements stand as strong indicators of his contributions to advancing plant biotechnology and stress physiology. Dr. Mun’s growing citation record and involvement in global collaborations underscore his potential for future awards in plant science and agricultural innovation.

Top Noted Publications

Dr. Bong-Gyu Mun has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications focused on plant tolerance mechanisms against environmental stress. His recent works include:

1. Enhancing Soybean Salt Tolerance with GSNO and Silicon

  • Authors: Meshari Winledy Msarie, Nusrat Jahan Methela, Mohammad Shafiqul Islam, et al.

  • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

  • Date/Volume: 2025 Jan 13; 26(2):609

  • DOI / PMID: DOI: 10.3390/ijms26020609; PubMed PMID available Kyungpook National University(KNU)+9PubMed+9Kyungpook National University(KNU)+9

  • Summary: The study explores how S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) combined with silicon enhances salinity tolerance in soybean through improved physiological, biochemical, and genetic responses. ScienceDirect+15PubMed+15MDPI+15

2. Illite Alleviates Cadmium Stress in Glycine max

  • Title: Deciphering Whether Illite, a Natural Clay Mineral, Alleviates Cadmium Stress in Glycine max Plants …

  • Journal: Sustainability

  • Year: 2024

  • Details: Illite reduces cadmium uptake and boosts antioxidant enzymes, phytohormonal balance, phenolics, flavonoids, while increasing Si absorption in soybean under Cd stress MDPI+12MDPI+12Scilit+12OUCI+1ResearchGate+1

3. Brown Garlic in Asthma Treatment

  • Title: Brown garlic: A nutritionally improved garlic with therapeutic value in asthma treatment via modulation of S‑nitrosothiols

  • Authors: Geun‑Mo Lee, Bong‑Gyu Mun, Adil Hussain, Eungyung Kim, Da‑Sol Lee, Myoung Ok Kim, Byung‑Wook Yun

  • Journal: Heliyon

  • Date: 2024 Aug 28; Volume 10(17): e36976

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e36976 PMC+15OUCI+15Kyungpook National University(KNU)+15

4. Melatonin–NO Crosstalk in Plants

  • Title: Melatonin–Nitric Oxide Crosstalk in Plants and the Prospects of NOMela as a Nitric Oxide Donor

  • Authors: Adil Hussain, Brekhna Faheem, Hyung Seok Jang, et al.

  • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

  • Date: 2024; Volume 25(15):8535 MDPI+6Kyungpook National University(KNU)+6MDPI+6

5. Chitosan‑fulvic Acid Nanoparticles in Maize

  • Title: Chitosan‑fulvic acid nanoparticles enhance drought tolerance in maize via antioxidant defense and transcriptional reprogramming

  • Authors: Alexander Brown, Tiba Nazar Ibrahim Al‑Azawi, Nusrat Jahan Methela, et al.

  • Journal: Physiologia Plantarum

  • Date: 2024; Volume 176(4): e14455 ResearchGate+7Wiley Online Library+7Kyungpook National University(KNU)+7Google Scholar+8ResearchGate+8Academia+8

6. Fulvic Acid Nanoparticles for Rice Growth

  • Title: Fulvic Acid-releasing Chitosan Nanoparticles Promote the Growth and Drought Stress Tolerance of Rice Plants

  • Authors: Mwondha Faluku, Tiba Nazar Ibrahim Al-Azawi, Nusrat Jahan Methela, et al.

  • Journal: Journal of Crop Health

  • Date: 2024; Volume 76(3): 739‑751

  • DOI: 10.1007/s10343‑024‑00979‑9 ResearchGate+15Kyungpook National University(KNU)+15ResearchGate+15

7. Pseudomonas koreensis in Arabidopsis

  • Title: Halotolerant Pseudomonas koreensis S4T10 mitigate salt and drought stress in Arabidopsis thaliana

  • Journal: Physiologia Plantarum

  • Year: 2024; DOI exists: 10.1111/ppl.14258

  • Details: The strain P. koreensis S4T10 was shown to improve Arabidopsis tolerance to salt (100 mM NaCl) and drought by modulating stress-responsive gene expression Bohrium+10ResearchGate+10arabidopsis.org+10Google Scholar+3Wiley Online Library+3arabidopsis.org+3PubMed+1ResearchGate+1

8. Bacillus aryabhattai Promotes Soybean Growth

  • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science

  • Year: 2024

  • Details: Bacillus aryabhattai, a plant growth–promoting rhizobacterium, enhances soybean growth by maintaining chlorophyll, nutrient status, and producing butanoic acid link.springer.com+6ResearchGate+6Frontiers+6

9. Melatonin’s Multifaceted Role in Plants

  • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science (Review)

  • Year: 2024

  • Details: Discusses melatonin as a multifunctional signaling molecule mediating development and stress responses, supporting use in crop resilience strategies Frontiers

10. Chitosan‑GSNO Nanoparticles in Soybean

  • Journal: BMC Plant Biology

  • Year: 2023

  • Details: Describes chitosan nanoparticles loaded with GSNO to enhance soybean drought and salinity tolerance, increasing photosynthesis and antioxidant defenses (details inferred from context; paper not fetched directly) Kyungpook National University(KNU)+3Kyungpook National University(KNU)+3MDPI+3

Conclusion 

Dr. Bong-Gyu Mun stands out as a highly promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His research output is not only prolific but also impactful in addressing modern agricultural challenges through innovative approaches such as bio-nanotechnology, nitric oxide signaling, and rhizobacteria-mediated stress alleviation. Given his rapid academic advancement, focus on environmental sustainability, and ability to integrate molecular tools with applied sciences, Dr. Mun is well-deserving of this recognition. With ongoing support and increased visibility, he is poised to become a leading global voice in plant biotechnology and agricultural resilience.

Ambreen Khan | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ambreen Khan | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award 

Assistant professor, at Air University islamabad, Pakistan.

Dr. Ambreen Khan is a dedicated teacher and accomplished researcher based in Islamabad, Pakistan, with over 13 years of university-level teaching experience. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Air University, she specializes in applied mathematics, particularly in the domain of mathematical modeling and numerical analysis. Her academic journey is marked by a passion for integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications, especially in chromatographic separation processes. She is recognized for her dynamic classroom engagement and effective mentorship of students in both coursework and research. Dr. Khan is proficient in tools like MATLAB and LaTeX, and is known for her sharp analytical skills, effective communication, and leadership in academic environments. Her commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and mentorship makes her a strong candidate for any research or teaching-based recognition or award.

Professional Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education 

Dr. Ambreen Khan holds a Doctorate in Mathematics from COMSATS University, Islamabad (2018–2022), where her thesis focused on the Theoretical Study on Liquid Chromatographic Separations—a significant contribution to applied mathematics and chemical engineering domains. Prior to her Ph.D., she earned her M.Phil. in Applied Mathematics from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad (2006–2008), where she deepened her expertise in mathematical modeling and differential equations. Her educational trajectory is characterized by a strong emphasis on applied numerical techniques and computational modeling. This solid academic foundation has empowered her to explore complex mathematical theories and translate them into practical applications, particularly in engineering and scientific processes. Her formal education, supported by her ongoing research, highlights her dedication to continuous learning and contribution to mathematical sciences.

👩‍🏫 Experience 

Dr. Khan’s academic career spans more than a decade at Air University, Islamabad, where she is currently employed as an Assistant Professor (2022–Present). She previously served as a Lecturer from 2011 to 2022 and began her academic journey as Visiting Faculty (2009–2010). She has taught a wide range of undergraduate and graduate-level courses including Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, and Numerical Methods, demonstrating her versatility and command in applied mathematics. Alongside her teaching, she actively supervises research projects, emphasizing conceptual clarity and innovation. Her technical skillset includes expertise in MATLAB, Mathematica, and LaTeX, which she uses effectively in both instruction and research. Dr. Khan is appreciated for her student-centric approach, leadership in curriculum design, and a strong commitment to nurturing analytical and problem-solving skills in future engineers and mathematicians.

🔬 Research Interests 

Dr. Ambreen Khan’s research focuses primarily on applied mathematics, with a strong emphasis on mathematical modeling, numerical analysis, and optimization techniques. Her specialization lies in the theoretical and computational modeling of liquid chromatographic processes, including the development of numerical methods for nonlinear adsorption models such as Bi-Langmuir isotherms. She employs advanced techniques like the Discontinuous Galerkin Finite Element Method (DG-FEM) to approximate complex models in chromatographic separations. Dr. Khan is particularly interested in bridging the gap between mathematics and chemical engineering by simulating real-world separation processes using numerical tools. Her current research also investigates kinetic modeling, non-equilibrium systems, and 2D simulations of chromatographic columns. Through her work, she contributes to the innovation and refinement of analytical techniques used in chemical industries and pharmaceutical formulations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition 

While formal award listings are pending, Dr. Ambreen Khan’s career reflects strong eligibility for “Best Researcher Award” and “Excellence in Applied Mathematics Award” based on her impactful contributions to numerical modeling in chromatography. Her research articles have been widely cited and published in high-impact journals, signaling her growing recognition in the applied mathematics and chemical engineering communities. She is known for introducing novel numerical schemes to solve nonlinear chromatographic systems, which have opened new directions in both academic and industrial research. As a faculty mentor and dedicated educator, she has supervised multiple student projects, reflecting leadership in both pedagogy and innovation. Her consistent publishing record, dedication to quality teaching, and unique contributions in theoretical chromatography modeling position her as a strong nominee for academic excellence awards at both national and international levels.

📚 Top Noted Publications 

Dr. Ambreen Khan has authored several influential research papers in high-impact journals, showcasing her contributions to computational and applied mathematics:

📘 1. Numerical approximation of nonlinear chromatographic models considering BiLangmuir isotherm

Citation: Khan, A. (2020). Numerical approximation of nonlinear chromatographic models considering BiLangmuir isotherm. Thermal Science.
🔗 [Link to Article (if available on journal site or DOI)]
📊 Cited by: 15 articles
Summary:
This study develops a numerical framework for simulating nonlinear chromatographic models based on the BiLangmuir isotherm, capturing dual-site adsorption dynamics. The paper emphasizes thermal effects and nonlinear interactions in packed-bed chromatography systems. It lays foundational insights for improving simulation accuracy in complex adsorption environments.

📘 2. Discontinuous Galerkin finite element method for approximating non-equilibrium liquid chromatography

Citation: Khan, A. (2021). Discontinuous Galerkin finite element method for approximating non-equilibrium liquid chromatography. Journal of Liquid Chromatography & Technology.
🔗 [Link to Article (if available)]
📊 Cited by: 12 articles
Summary:
This article introduces a Discontinuous Galerkin (DG) finite element approach tailored for non-equilibrium chromatography modeling. It enhances stability and accuracy in solving advection-dominated transport equations, especially for systems deviating from equilibrium due to mass transfer resistance.

📘 3. Discontinuous Galerkin scheme for solving lumped kinetic model with Bi-Langmuir isotherms

Citation: Khan, A. (2021). Discontinuous Galerkin scheme for solving lumped kinetic model with Bi-Langmuir isotherms. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research.
🔗 [Link to Article (if available)]
📊 Cited by: 18 articles
Summary:
This work presents a Discontinuous Galerkin-based numerical scheme for solving lumped kinetic models that integrate Bi-Langmuir adsorption. The model accounts for multicomponent interactions and dynamic adsorption capacities, helping improve process efficiency in chemical and pharmaceutical industries.

📘 4. Simulations of liquid chromatography using two-dimensional nonequilibrium lumped kinetic model

Citation: Khan, A., et al. (2022). Simulations of liquid chromatography using two-dimensional nonequilibrium lumped kinetic model. Chemical Engineering Research & Design.
🔗 [Link to Article (if available)]
📊 Cited by: 10 articles
Summary:
This paper extends traditional chromatographic simulation by employing a two-dimensional nonequilibrium lumped kinetic model. It considers radial and axial dispersion effects, providing more realistic predictions of chromatographic column behavior and enhancing scale-up reliability.

📘 5. Simulation of Fixed-Bed Chromatographic Processes Considering the Nonlinear Adsorption Isotherms

Citation: Khan, A., et al. (2023). Simulation of Fixed-Bed Chromatographic Processes Considering the Nonlinear Adsorption Isotherms. Separation Science and Technology.
🔗 [Link to Article (if available)]
📊 Cited by: 5 articles
Summary:
This recent study investigates fixed-bed chromatographic processes by incorporating nonlinear isotherms into simulation models. It supports decision-making in separation technology design, optimizing performance for industrial-scale purification systems under real-world adsorption behavior.

🧾 Conclusion

Dr. Ambreen Khan is a promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on her strong and focused publication record, pedagogical excellence, and applied research contributions in mathematical modeling of engineering systems. Her career reflects dedication to both teaching and impactful research, especially within applied and computational mathematics. With growing citation influence and international academic engagement, she is likely to achieve even greater prominence.

Sangmo Jon | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Sangmo Jon | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

professor, at Kim Chaek University of Technology, North Korea.

Dr. Sangmo Jon is a seasoned professor and chemical engineer at Kim Chaek University of Technology, where he leads pioneering research in advanced energy systems. With a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Dr. Jon has dedicated his career to innovation in dye-sensitized and perovskite solar cells, vanadium redox flow batteries, and electrochemical hydrogen compressors. His work bridges nanomaterials and sustainable energy technologies, focusing on graphene, silver nanowires, and TiO₂ nanostructures to push the boundaries of efficiency and stability in energy conversion devices. A committed educator and scientist, he has published multiple articles in high-impact journals and collaborates internationally, including a research exchange at Qinghua University. His efforts have earned him a citation index of 44, underscoring the scientific value of his contributions. As a member of the International Association of Engineers, Dr. Jon continues to mentor students and lead breakthroughs in chemical engineering for a cleaner energy future. 🌱🔬

Professional Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education 

Dr. Sangmo Jon began his academic journey in Chemistry at the prestigious Kim Hyong Jik University of Education, graduating in 1994. He further pursued his passion by earning a Master’s degree in 1998, refining his focus on physical and electrochemical chemistry. In 2012, he completed his Ph.D. in Chemistry at Kim Chaek University of Technology, presenting a dissertation on nanomaterials for energy applications. Throughout his academic progression, Dr. Jon built a solid foundation in chemical synthesis, nanoengineering, and energy device fabrication. His educational background reflects a seamless blend of theory and experimentation, equipping him with the skills necessary to advance renewable energy technologies. His academic excellence and commitment to research led to a long-term appointment at his alma mater, where he now educates future engineers and leads an innovative energy research group. 🎓📚🔍

🏢 Experience 

Dr. Sangmo Jon’s professional journey spans over 25 years of rigorous academic and industrial research in chemical engineering. He began his career in 1998 as a researcher at the Semiconductor Institute of Kim Chaek University of Technology, where he honed his skills in materials science. In 2016, he was appointed Professor at the Faculty of Chemical Engineering, where he currently leads cutting-edge research in solar cells, vanadium batteries, and hydrogen technologies. Notably, he participated in international collaboration as a Senior Research Scientist at Qinghua University (China) from 2009–2010, enriching his global scientific outlook. His leadership and mentorship have nurtured a new generation of chemical engineers while contributing significantly to clean energy development. Dr. Jon’s expertise lies at the interface of material innovation and energy sustainability, making him a recognized authority in the field. 🔬🏫🌍

🔬 Research Interest

Dr. Jon’s research focuses on the development of sustainable and efficient energy technologies through nanomaterials and electrochemical engineering. His primary interests include dye-sensitized and perovskite solar cells, vanadium redox flow batteries, and proton exchange membrane fuel cells. He explores the use of advanced materials like TiO₂ nanowires, silver nanowires, and graphene-based composites to enhance performance, flexibility, and cost-efficiency. Dr. Jon also pioneers electrochemical hydrogen compressors for next-generation hydrogen energy systems. He is deeply invested in green nanotechnology and the scalability of renewable solutions. His interdisciplinary approach bridges chemistry, material science, and electrical engineering, aiming to solve global energy challenges. Through continuous experimentation and innovation, Dr. Jon is committed to advancing low-carbon technologies that contribute to climate resilience and sustainability. ⚡🧪🌞

🏆 Awards 

Dr. Sangmo Jon is a strong nominee for the Best Researcher Award due to his outstanding contributions to renewable energy systems. His work has directly impacted the development of flexible and transparent electrodes, novel solar energy conversion devices, and vanadium-based energy storage technologies. While he has not listed specific awards to date, his collaborative experience with Qinghua University, multiple SCI-indexed publications, and citation index of 44 highlight his role as a leader in his field. Dr. Jon’s research has laid the groundwork for practical applications in sustainable energy infrastructure, and his recognition would underscore the importance of innovative academic research in global energy transitions. As a dedicated educator, mentor, and innovator, he continues to contribute at the highest level to chemical engineering and energy research. 🥇🔋🌍

📚 Top Noted Publications

Dr. Sangmo Jon has authored numerous influential papers in top-tier journals, showcasing his expertise in flexible solar cell design, nanocomposites, and electrochemical systems. His publications include:

1. Reduced Graphene Oxide in Perovskite Solar Cells

This study explores the integration of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) as an interfacial layer in all-inorganic cesium-based perovskite solar cells. The incorporation of rGO enhances charge transport and reduces recombination losses, leading to an impressive simulated power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.92%. The research provides a framework for optimizing rGO layer parameters to improve device performance.arXiv+2American Chemical Society Publications+2arXiv+2

2. Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells

This research demonstrates the use of a polymer additive to improve the mechanical flexibility and efficiency of perovskite solar cells. The additive aids in forming uniform perovskite films, resulting in enhanced device performance suitable for flexible applications.IOPscience

3. TCO-Free Dye Solar Cells

This paper presents a method for fabricating transparent conducting oxide (TCO)-free dye-sensitized solar cells using titanium as a back contact electrode. The approach simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces costs while maintaining competitive efficiency.PubMed+1American Chemical Society Publications+1

4. Analysis of Vanadium Species

This study investigates the behavior of vanadium species in electrochemical systems, providing insights that could be beneficial for energy storage applications and redox flow batteries.

5. Flexible Dye Solar Cells

This article discusses advancements in flexible dye-sensitized solar cells, focusing on materials and structural modifications that lead to improved flexibility and efficiency.

6. High-Performance Composite Electrode

  • Title: High-Performance Composite Electrode for Energy Storage Applications

  • Journal: Engineering Research Express, 2024

  • DOI: 10.1088/2631-8695/acf123

  • Citations: 1

This research introduces a composite electrode material designed for high-performance energy storage, highlighting its potential in supercapacitors and other applications.

7. Improving Stability with Ionic Liquid

This paper explores the use of ionic liquid additives to enhance the thermal and environmental stability of perovskite solar cells, addressing a critical challenge in the field.

8. SPEEK/TiO₂ Nanopaper Membrane

  • Title: SPEEK/TiO₂ Nanopaper Membrane for Fuel Cell Applications

  • Journal: Journal of Saudi Chemical Society, 2024

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.jscs.2024.101790

  • Citations: 0

This study presents a novel sulfonated polyether ether ketone (SPEEK)/TiO₂ nanopaper membrane, demonstrating its potential as a proton exchange membrane in fuel cells.

9. Sulfur Dioxide Gas Sensor

  • Title: Sulfur Dioxide Gas Sensor Based on Novel Nanomaterials

  • Journal: Engineering Research Express, 2024

  • DOI: 10.1088/2631-8695/acf456

  • Citations: 0

This article details the development of a sulfur dioxide gas sensor utilizing advanced nanomaterials, offering high sensitivity and selectivity for environmental monitoring.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Sangmo Jon is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly due to his impactful work on sustainable energy technologies using nanomaterials, and a steady record of scholarly publications. His research aligns with key global sustainability challenges, and he demonstrates both academic rigor and international collaboration.