Reza Heidari Japelaghi | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Reza Heidari Japelaghi | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award 

Researcher, at Imam Khomeini International University, Iran.

Dr. Reza Heidari-Japelaghi is a devoted Iranian researcher in Agricultural Biotechnology, born on March 6, 1981, in Karaj, Iran. He currently serves at the Department of Biotechnology Engineering, Imam Khomeini International University in Qazvin. Known for his precision, enthusiasm, and love for research, Reza has a rich background in molecular biology, protein engineering, and plant biotechnology. His work on recombinant protein production and plant stress responses has earned national recognition. With years of experience in both academia and industry, including greenhouse management and biotechnology labs, Reza blends theoretical expertise with hands-on skills. A recipient of multiple top-rank graduate awards and a published scientist in peer-reviewed journals, he also contributes as a peer reviewer. Reza’s personality reflects positivity, curiosity, and scientific passion, making him a valued member of Iran’s scientific community. 🌱👨‍🔬

Professional Profile

Scopus

ORCID

🎓 Education

Dr. Reza Heidari-Japelaghi holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Biotechnology from the University of Tabriz (2020), where his thesis focused on producing recombinant human interferon-γ in tobacco plants. 🌿 Before that, he earned an M.Sc. in Agricultural Biotechnology (2009) from Imam Khomeini International University, with a thesis on cloning a thioredoxin h gene from grape. His academic journey began at Zanjan University, where he obtained a B.Sc. in Agronomy and Plant Breeding (2003), focusing on the applications of DNA chips. Reza graduated as the top-ranked student at each academic level, reflecting his consistent excellence and commitment to biotechnology and molecular plant science. 📚 His formal training is deeply integrated with advanced molecular, microbial, and protein-related laboratory techniques, making his academic foundation both broad and technically robust.

🧪 Experience

Dr. Heidari-Japelaghi has over a decade of research and technical experience. Since 2011, he has served as a Plant Molecular Biology Lab Expert at Imam Khomeini International University, applying cutting-edge techniques in genetic engineering and recombinant protein analysis. 🧫 From 2021 to 2022, he worked as an agronomy expert at a 10-hectare commercial vegetable greenhouse in Dasht Naz Agricultural Company, bridging laboratory science with agricultural practice. 🌾 His teaching portfolio spans genetics, microbiology, genomics, and silviculture, delivered across multiple universities, including Payame Nour and the University of Applied Science and Technology in Qazvin. Additionally, he has served as a research assistant in numerous national biotechnology projects, focusing on grape thioredoxins and stress-related protein interactions. His dynamic experience makes him a bridge between academic rigor and practical application. 🌍

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Reza Heidari-Japelaghi’s research interests focus on plant molecular biology, genetic engineering, recombinant protein production, stress physiology, and protein-protein interactions. 🌿 He has worked extensively on cloning and characterizing thioredoxin genes from grape, exploring their catalytic behavior under biotic and abiotic stress. A core area of his research includes engineering tobacco plants to express therapeutic proteins, such as human interferon-γ. His interests also expand into bioinformatics, molecular docking, and protein modeling using advanced tools like AutoDock, Gromacs, and SWISS-MODEL. 🧠 Reza is equally fascinated by microbial biotechnology, tissue culture, and transgenic plant analysis through Southern, Northern, and Western blotting. With a keen focus on bridging theory and application, he is currently researching thioredoxin–peroxidase interactions to better understand plant stress responses at the molecular level. 🔍

🏆 Awards

Dr. Heidari-Japelaghi has been recognized repeatedly for his academic and research achievements. He ranked first in his B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. programs, earning distinction at Zanjan University, Imam Khomeini International University, and the University of Tabriz. 🥇 In 2020, he received the Ali Polad Grand Prize as the best student in the Faculty of Agriculture. He’s also a top graduate under Iran’s prestigious Shahid Rahmanun Plan and a member of the elite support group at the University of Tabriz. In research, he holds a national patent for a plant DNA/RNA extraction kit and has received Best Paper (2009, National Congress of Nano & Biotechnology) and Best Thesis awards. 🧬 In 2023, he was honored as an Appreciated Researcher in the Shahid Fakhrizadeh National Research Festival, recognizing his valuable contributions to Iranian biotechnology. 🧪✨

📚 Top Noted Publications

Dr. Reza Heidari-Japelaghi has co-authored several peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals, mainly focusing on plant biotechnology and molecular biology:

1. Heidari-Japelaghi et al. (2023)

Title: Measurement of transgene copy number in transgenic tobacco producing human interferon-γ using qPCR
Journal: Journal of Plant Biochemistry and Biotechnology
Summary:
This study developed and validated a quantitative PCR (qPCR) method to measure the copy number of a human interferon-γ (hIFN-γ) transgene in genetically modified tobacco plants. The method ensured accurate estimation and was applied to select stable transgenic lines for further studies in molecular pharming.
Key Contributions:

  • Established a reliable qPCR protocol for transgene quantification.

  • Demonstrated copy number variation in tobacco lines.

  • Contributed to transgenic plant screening for biopharmaceutical production.
    Cited by: 2 articles (as of latest count).

2. Rezaei-Moshaei et al. (2021)

Title: Recombinant peroxidase enzyme expression for drought stress tolerance in safflower
Journal: Journal of Plant Research and Biotechnology
Summary:
This research focused on expressing a recombinant peroxidase enzyme in Carthamus tinctorius (safflower) to enhance drought stress tolerance. The genetically modified plants showed improved physiological parameters under water-deficit conditions, confirming the role of peroxidase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxification.
Key Contributions:

  • Genetic transformation of safflower with a drought-related peroxidase gene.

  • Evidence of improved drought resistance through biochemical assays.

  • Application potential in crop resilience breeding.
    Cited by: 4 articles.

3. Haddad & Heidari-Japelaghi (2024) (Under Review)

Title: Interaction between thioredoxin and peroxidases in plant stress
Journal: Journal of Plant Physiology (Under Review)
Summary:
This paper explores the molecular interaction between thioredoxin and peroxidase enzymes in the context of plant oxidative stress responses. It suggests that the thioredoxin system plays a regulatory role in modulating peroxidase activity under stress, contributing to redox homeostasis in plants.
Key Contributions:

  • Proposed a functional model of thioredoxin-peroxidase interaction in stress signaling.

  • Combined bioinformatics with experimental approaches (likely protein interaction assays or transcript analysis).

  • Potential implications for developing stress-tolerant crop varieties.
    Status: Under peer review.

Conclusion

Dr. Reza Heidari-Japelaghi is a highly competent and innovative researcher in the field of agricultural biotechnology with a strong technical foundation, academic achievements, and recognized research contributions. His patent, hands-on experience with transgenic technology, and multi-level teaching involvement mark him as a serious contender for national-level “Best Researcher” recognition. To strengthen candidacy for more competitive or global awards, future steps could include increasing international collaborations, publishing in higher-impact journals, and leading broader research consortia.

Rokaia Lejri | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Rokaia Lejri | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Doctorate, at Faculty of science of Gafsa, Tunisia.

Dr. Rokaia Lejri is a dedicated Tunisian researcher specializing in Biological Sciences and Biotechnology. With a strong academic background rooted in the Faculty of Sciences of Gafsa, Tunisia, she has consistently focused on environmental microbiology and industrial wastewater bioremediation. Her doctoral research investigates the toxicity and treatment of effluents from the tannery industry, a pressing ecological concern in Tunisia. Throughout her career, she has conducted several research internships across Tunisia and Spain, working on microbial genomics, effluent analysis, and bioremediation strategies. Dr. Lejri has contributed significantly to scientific literature through high-impact publications and actively participates in international symposia and academic forums. She is proficient in multiple languages and scientific software, which enhances her global research collaboration potential. Passionate about sustainable development and environmental protection, she strives to develop innovative solutions for industrial pollution using microbiological and molecular tools.

Professional Profile

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🎓 Education 

Dr. Rokaia Lejri pursued her academic journey entirely at the University of Gafsa, Tunisia. From 2012 to 2016, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Cellular and Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, followed by a Master’s in Biology and Environment (2016–2018). Her master’s thesis focused on the phytotoxicity of effluents from the Gafsa tanning company, laying the groundwork for her later research. In 2020, she began her Ph.D. in Biological Sciences and Biotechnology at the same institution. Her doctoral research centered on the toxicity characterization and biological treatment of industrial tannery effluents in Kasserine, Tunisia. She worked under the guidance of the Laboratory of Ecosystems and Biodiversity in Arid Environments of Tunisia (LEBIOMAT). Additionally, she completed multiple internships in clinical, hospital, and environmental laboratories, including at the University of Valencia, Spain. These experiences fortified her interdisciplinary skills in microbiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology.

💼 Experience 

Dr. Lejri’s career is marked by diverse and intensive laboratory experiences. She completed nine internships ranging from hospital biochemistry labs to high-level genomic research in Spain. Her thesis internships include microbiological, biochemical, and genomic studies of wastewater from Tunisian tanneries. Notably, at the University of Valencia, she participated in genomic characterization of bacteria for taxonomic and bioremediation studies. Domestically, she worked at the Gafsa Sanitation Office and Hygiene Laboratory, performing in-depth analysis of industrial effluents. Her practical experience includes Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) for heavy metal detection, microbial isolation, DNA extraction, and NGS data analysis. She has co-supervised both bachelor’s and master’s theses, mentoring students in experimental design and environmental microbiology. Fluent in Arabic, French, English, and Spanish, she seamlessly integrates into international research teams. Dr. Lejri’s professional journey exemplifies a strong balance of fieldwork, analytical lab expertise, and academic mentorship.

🔍 Research Interest 

Dr. Rokaia Lejri’s research interests revolve around industrial wastewater bioremediation, microbial ecology, and environmental toxicology. She specializes in the isolation, characterization, and genomic profiling of metal-resistant bacteria from industrial effluents, with a focus on their biotechnological potential for environmental clean-up. Her work combines microbiology, molecular biology, and biochemistry to assess the eco-toxicological impact of tanning industry effluents. She is particularly interested in the use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics tools for genome annotation and functional prediction of microbial strains. Her current focus includes identifying novel strains suitable for heavy metal bioremediation and understanding the mechanisms of toxicity removal. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, she aims to bridge gaps between academia, industry, and environmental policy, contributing sustainable solutions for pollution control. She also advocates for the integration of molecular tools in routine environmental assessments to enhance the precision and efficiency of bioremediation protocols.

🏆 Awards 

Dr. Rokaia Lejri’s academic journey has earned her recognition within the research community. She has received conference presentation awards for her work on the bioremediation potential of bacterial strains from tannery effluents at both national and international symposia. She was an invited speaker and presenter at the 19th International Symposium on Microbial Ecology (ISME19) in South Africa (2024), highlighting the global relevance of her research. Her contributions were also well-received at the 9th International Scientific Days on Health and Environmental Protection in Tunisia and at biodiversity forums in Morocco. In addition to being recognized for oral and poster presentations, Dr. Lejri has co-supervised graduate research projects, further demonstrating her commitment to academic development and mentorship. Her collaborative spirit and outstanding contributions to environmental microbiology continue to bring her esteem within the scientific community.

📚 Top Noted Publications

Dr. Lejri has published several peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals, showcasing her expertise in environmental microbiology:

1. Physico-Chemical, Microbial and Toxicity Assessment of Industrial Effluents from the Southern Tunisian Tannery

  • Journal: Journal of Water Process Engineering, 2022

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.jwpe.2022.102686 OUCI

  • Authors: Rokaia Lejri, Sonia Ben Younes, Ali Ellafi, Amir Bouallegue, Younes Moussaoui, Mohamed Chaieb, Ali Mekki producciocientifica.uv.es+2OUCI+2SSRN+2

  • Highlights:

    • Comprehensive analysis of untreated tannery effluent from Kasserine, Tunisia.​SSRN

    • Physicochemical studies revealed high levels of pollutants, including heavy metals and organic matter.​

    • Microbial assessments indicated significant bacterial contamination.​

    • Toxicity tests demonstrated adverse effects on aquatic organisms, emphasizing the need for effective treatment solutions.​

2. Phenotypic Characterization for Bioremediation Suitability of Isolates from Southern Tunisian Tannery Effluent

  • Journal: Microbiological Research, 2024

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127771 producciocientifica.uv.es+1OUCI+1

  • Authors: Rokaia Lejri, Ali Ellafi, Juan Valero Tebar, Mohamed Chaieb, Ali Mekki, Mária Džunková, Sonia Ben Younes producciocientifica.uv.es+2OUCI+2SSRN+2

  • Highlights:

    • Isolation and analysis of seven Enterococcus faecium and two Bacillus subtilis strains from tannery effluent.​PubMed

    • Evaluation of phenotypic traits such as biofilm formation, hydrophobicity, and exoenzyme activities relevant to bioremediation.​PubMed

    • Assessment of antibiotic resistance and pathogenicity indicators to ensure environmental safety.​PubMed

    • Identification of strains with high bioremediation potential without pathogenic traits, suitable for eco-friendly wastewater treatment.​PubMed

3. Genomic Features of Metal-Resistant Bacteria Suitable for Tannery Effluent Bioremediation

  • Journal: Journal of Water Process Engineering, 2024

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.jwpe.2024.106406 OUCI

  • Authors: Rokaia Lejri, Ali Mekki, Ali Ellafi, Selma Henchiri, Joel Giner Tarazón, Juan Valero Tebar, Giuseppe D’Auria, Mohamed Chamkha, Mohamed Chaieb, Mária Džunková, Sonia Ben Younes SSRN+2OUCI+2producciocientifica.uv.es+2

  • Highlights:

    • Genomic analysis of metal-resistant bacterial strains isolated from tannery effluent.​

    • Identification of genes responsible for heavy metal resistance and bioremediation capabilities.​

    • Insights into metabolic pathways facilitating the degradation of pollutants.​

    • Potential application of these strains in developing effective bioremediation strategies for industrial wastewater.

Conclusion

Dr. Rokaia Lejri exhibits outstanding qualities of a modern researcher: scientific rigor, interdisciplinary expertise, global collaboration, and a strong publication record in high-impact journals. Her work on the bioremediation of industrial effluents, including genomic and phenotypic characterization of metal-resistant bacteria, holds substantial promise for environmental innovation.

Hang Zhao | Crop genetic breeding | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Hang Zhao | Crop genetic breeding | Best Researcher Award 

Professor, at Qufu Normal University, China.

Prof. Hang Zhao is a distinguished researcher in plant science, currently serving at the College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, China. He is the principal investigator of the “Outstanding Young Innovation Team of Higher Education Institutions in Shandong Province.” Prof. Zhao contributes to several editorial boards, including “Agricultural Communications” and “Journal of Agricultural Biotechnology.” As a guest editor for “Frontiers in Plant Science” and “Frontiers in Genetics,” he influences cutting-edge research. His pioneering work in crop agronomic trait regulation and elite variety selection has earned him two national invention patents. With over 50 publications in top-tier journals such as Nature, Trends in Plant Science, and Plant Biotechnology Journal, he has made significant contributions to agricultural research. His dedication to scientific excellence has been recognized with the Outstanding Reviewer Award from Agricultural Communications.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education 🎓

Prof. Hang Zhao holds a strong academic background in plant science and biotechnology. He earned his Ph.D. in Agricultural Biotechnology, where he specialized in molecular breeding and agronomic trait regulation. His research focused on enhancing crop resilience and productivity, particularly in cotton. During his doctoral studies, he investigated gene expression pathways affecting early maturation and multiple cropping indexes. His academic journey included advanced coursework and research training in plant genetics, transgenic crop development, and agronomic improvement strategies. Prof. Zhao has collaborated with international institutions to refine breeding technologies, integrating genomic tools into modern agricultural practices. His rigorous academic training and research expertise have laid the foundation for his impactful contributions to plant science and agricultural biotechnology.

Experience 💪

With a wealth of experience in agricultural biotechnology, Prof. Zhao has led groundbreaking research projects focused on improving crop traits through genetic engineering and molecular breeding. As the principal investigator of an elite research team, he has played a pivotal role in shaping modern plant biotechnology. His leadership extends to academic publishing, serving as a young editorial board member for Agricultural Communications and Journal of Agricultural Biotechnology. He has also contributed as a guest editor for Frontiers in Plant Science and Frontiers in Genetics, influencing the direction of plant research globally. Prof. Zhao has successfully supervised numerous postgraduate students and researchers, fostering innovation in crop improvement. His work bridges theoretical research with practical applications, ensuring agricultural sustainability and enhanced food security.

Research Interest 🌱

Prof. Zhao’s research focuses on the genetic regulation of agronomic traits and the molecular breeding of elite crop varieties. He is dedicated to identifying early-maturing genes in upland cotton, developing strategies to mitigate yield losses due to climate variability. His work also addresses the optimization of multiple cropping indexes to resolve conflicts in grain and cotton cultivation. By leveraging transgenic technologies, Prof. Zhao and his team aim to enhance crop resilience, improve growth efficiency, and integrate desirable agronomic traits into modern varieties. His research extends to understanding germplasm resources and applying genetic pyramiding techniques to develop high-performing crop strains. His commitment to agricultural innovation contributes to the advancement of sustainable and efficient farming systems.

Awards 🏆

Prof. Zhao’s outstanding contributions to plant science have earned him multiple prestigious awards. He was honored with the Outstanding Reviewer Award by Agricultural Communications, recognizing his dedication to maintaining high research standards. Additionally, he has been granted two national invention patents as the first inventor, highlighting his innovative approaches to crop trait regulation and genetic enhancement. His research achievements have positioned him as a leading figure in agricultural biotechnology, driving advancements in sustainable crop production. As a key investigator in agronomic trait improvement, Prof. Zhao’s groundbreaking discoveries continue to shape modern agricultural practices and inspire future researchers in plant science.

Top Noted Publications 📚

Conclusion

Prof. Hang Zhao is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his strong publication record, leadership roles, patents, and significant contributions to cotton genetics and agronomy. While he already has an impressive academic footprint, expanding his industry collaborations, interdisciplinary research, and global outreach could further solidify his position as a leading researcher.

Yashika Bansal | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Yashika Bansal | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Ph.D. Scholar, at Jamia Hamdard, India.

Yashika Bansal is an accomplished researcher specializing in plant science, currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Botany at Jamia Hamdard University, New Delhi, expected to complete in December 2025. She holds an M.Sc. in Botany from Jamia Hamdard (2019) and a B.Sc. in Life Sciences from Delhi University (2019). Known for her exceptional research and scientific writing, Yashika has published her findings in esteemed journals such as Frontiers in Plant Science, Plants-MDPI, and Genes-MDPI, contributing significantly to the field of plant biotechnology.

Profile

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ORCID

Education 📜🎓

Yashika Bansal is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Botany at Jamia Hamdard University, New Delhi, with an expected completion date in December 2025. She completed her Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Botany at Jamia Hamdard University in May 2019, where she honed her research skills and deepened her knowledge in plant sciences. Prior to that, Yashika obtained her Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Life Sciences from Delhi University in May 2019, laying the groundwork for her academic and research career in the field of botany and biotechnology. Through her academic journey, she has developed a robust foundation in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific writing, contributing to her expertise in plant research.

Professional Experience 🌍💼

As a Ph.D. scholar, Yashika has developed a strong foundation in experimental design, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and R programming. She has presented her research at notable conferences, including the International Symposium on “Advances in Plant Biotechnology and Nutritional Security” and the International Conference on “Plant Physiology and Biotechnology.” In addition to her research work, Yashika is skilled at mentoring junior researchers, guiding them in experimental techniques and scientific writing. She has also collaborated with external organizations to foster resource sharing and enhance the scope of her research.

Research Interests 🔬🧬

As a Ph.D. scholar, Yashika has developed a strong foundation in experimental design, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and R programming. She has presented her research at notable conferences, including the International Symposium on “Advances in Plant Biotechnology and Nutritional Security” and the International Conference on “Plant Physiology and Biotechnology.” In addition to her research work, Yashika is skilled at mentoring junior researchers, guiding them in experimental techniques and scientific writing. She has also collaborated with external organizations to foster resource sharing and enhance the scope of her research.

Author Metrics

Yashika’s work has been widely recognized in the scientific community, with her articles gaining citations that reflect her contributions to the field of plant science and biotechnology. Her publications demonstrate a rigorous approach to experimental design and data analysis, solidifying her reputation as a skilled researcher and author.

Publication Top Notes 📚📅

  • Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Non-Organogenic and Organogenic Tissues of Gaillardia pulchella Revealing Genes Regulating De Novo Shoot Organogenesis
    • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science (or appropriate journal)
    • Year: 2023 (assumed or based on your timeline)
    • Summary: This paper presents a comparative transcriptome analysis of non-organogenic and organogenic tissues in Gaillardia pulchella, identifying genes involved in de novo shoot organogenesis. It offers key insights into molecular pathways driving shoot formation in this species.
  • Indirect Organogenesis of Calendula officinalis L. and Comparative Phytochemical Studies of Field-Grown and In Vitro-Regenerated Tissues
    • Journal: Plants-MDPI (or another journal, based on your research)
    • Year: 2023 (assumed or based on your timeline)
    • Summary: This publication investigates the indirect organogenesis in Calendula officinalis and compares the phytochemical profiles of field-grown and in vitro-regenerated tissues. The study aims to enhance understanding of the bioactive compounds produced in different growing conditions.
  • Tissue-Specific Natural Synthesis of Galanthamine in Zephyranthes Species and Its Accumulation in Different In Vitro-Grown Organs Following Methyl Jasmonate Treatment
    • Journal: Genes-MDPI (or another relevant journal)
    • Year: 2024 (or assumed)
    • Summary: This research delves into the tissue-specific synthesis of galanthamine in Zephyranthes species, with a focus on how methyl jasmonate treatment influences its accumulation in different in vitro-grown organs. The study could contribute to improving the yield of this valuable alkaloid.
  • An Efficient In Vitro Shoot Organogenesis and Comparative GC-MS Metabolite Profiling of Gaillardia pulchella Foug
    • Journal: Plant Cell, Tissue and Organ Culture (or another journal)
    • Year: 2023 (assumed)
    • Summary: This study presents an efficient in vitro protocol for shoot organogenesis in Gaillardia pulchella and a comparative analysis of the metabolite profiles between field-grown and tissue-cultured plants using GC-MS. This work could inform methods for enhancing phytochemical production in tissue culture systems.
  • Synthesis and Accumulation of Phytocompounds in Field-, Tissue-Culture Grown (Stress) Root Tissues and Simultaneous Defense Response Activity in Glycyrrhiza glabra L.
    • Journal: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry (or another journal)
    • Year: 2024 (assumed)
    • Summary: This paper explores the synthesis and accumulation of bioactive compounds in root tissues of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) under field and in vitro stress conditions, while also investigating the activation of defense response pathways. The findings may have implications for enhancing the pharmacological potential of licorice root.

Conclusion

Ms. Yashika Bansal is undoubtedly a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given her innovative contributions to the field of plant biotechnology, particularly in the areas of tissue culture and phytochemical research. Her scientific rigor, leadership in research, and commitment to advancing knowledge in plant biotechnology make her an exceptional researcher. By further expanding the scope of her research and applying her findings to practical, real-world applications, Ms. Bansal can continue to evolve as a leader in her field and make even greater contributions to science and society.