Yougen Wu | Plant Molecular Biology | Excellence in Innovation

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Prof. Dr. Yougen Wu | Plant Molecular Biology | Excellence in Innovation 

Vice-Dean of the Faculty, at School of Breeding and Multiplication (Sanya Institute of Breeding and Multiplication), China.

Professor Yougen Wu is a distinguished scholar specializing in plant breeding and medicinal botany. Currently, he serves at the School of Breeding and Multiplication, Hainan University, Sanya. His extensive research focuses on rhizosphere microbial communities, continuous cropping systems, and plant metabolic pathways. Over the years, he has contributed significantly to understanding plant-soil-microbe interactions, particularly in patchouli cultivation. With multiple prestigious research projects under his leadership, he has been a driving force in agricultural innovation. He has published extensively in high-impact journals and holds several patents in medicinal plant cultivation and biotechnological advancements. His expertise is widely recognized, making him a respected figure in plant sciences.

Professional Profile 

Scopus

ORCID

Education 🎓

Professor Wu holds a Ph.D. in Medicinal Botany from Nanjing Agricultural University (2009). Prior to that, he earned his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Horticulture from Jiangxi Agricultural University (2003 and 2000, respectively). His academic journey has been enriched by multiple international fellowships, including postdoctoral research at the University of Hawaii (2012-2013) and Hainan University (2011-2015). He further broadened his expertise through visiting scholar positions at the University of Hawaii (2015) and the University of Florida (2018-2019). His diverse academic background has shaped his multidisciplinary approach to plant science research.

Experience 💼

Professor Wu’s career spans research, teaching, and innovation in plant sciences. His tenure at Hainan University has been marked by groundbreaking contributions to plant metabolism and microbial ecology. He has led several National Natural Science Foundation of China projects, focusing on transcriptomics, metabolomics, and soil microbiology. His international experience as a postdoctoral fellow and visiting scholar has enabled him to collaborate globally. Additionally, he has supervised numerous graduate students and researchers, fostering new generations of plant scientists. His industry collaborations extend to standardized cultivation techniques and biotechnological applications in medicinal plant production.

Research Interests 🔬

Professor Wu’s research interests lie in plant-microbe interactions, continuous cropping systems, and molecular plant physiology. His work deciphers the impact of root exudates on rhizosphere microbial communities, especially in patchouli. He also explores genetic mechanisms governing plant metabolite production and stress adaptation. His studies integrate transcriptomics, miRNA sequencing, and functional genomics to unravel plant resilience mechanisms. Through metagenomic and soil biochemical analyses, he aims to develop sustainable agricultural practices. His research contributes to medicinal plant biotechnology, optimizing cultivation techniques for high-value crops.

Awards & Recognitions 🏆

Professor Wu has received numerous accolades for his contributions to plant science. His research projects have been funded by prestigious grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China. He has been recognized for his pioneering studies in continuous cropping stress and plant-microbe interactions. His work in medicinal botany and sustainable agriculture has earned him invitations to leading conferences and collaborations with global research institutions. His patents and publications further establish his authority in the field, making him a sought-after expert in plant biotechnology.

Top Noted Publications 📖

  • Functional Analysis of the PcCDPK5 Gene in Response to Allelopathic Substances on p-Hydroxybenzoic Acid (p-HBA) Stress in Patchouli

    • Authors: Xiaofeng Liu, Jingru Zhou, et al.
    • Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
    • Year: 2025
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.117659
    • Summary: This study investigates the role of the PcCDPK5 gene in patchouli when exposed to the allelopathic compound p-hydroxybenzoic acid (p-HBA). The research provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying patchouli’s response to allelopathic stress, highlighting the gene’s potential role in stress tolerance.

  • Molecular Basis of Pogostemon cablin Responding to Continuous Cropping Obstacles

    • Authors: Not specified in the provided information.
    • Journal: Industrial Crops and Products
    • Year: 2023
    • Summary: This paper explores the molecular responses of Pogostemon cablin (patchouli) to challenges associated with continuous cropping. The study aims to identify key genes and pathways involved in the plant’s adaptation to continuous cultivation, offering strategies to mitigate associated growth obstacles.

  • Combined Physiological and Transcriptome Analysis

    • Authors: Not specified in the provided information.
    • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science
    • Year: 2022
    • Summary: This research combines physiological assessments with transcriptome analysis to understand specific plant responses under certain conditions. The integrated approach provides a comprehensive view of how plants adjust at both the physiological and molecular levels.

  • Integrated Analysis of Physiological, mRNA, and miRNA Sequencing

    • Authors: Not specified in the provided information.
    • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science
    • Year: 2022
    • Summary: This study offers an integrated analysis combining physiological data with mRNA and miRNA sequencing to delve into the regulatory networks governing plant responses. The findings shed light on the complex interactions between different molecular players in plant adaptation processes.

  • Identification of the CDPK Gene Family in Patchouli

    • Authors: Not specified in the provided information.
    • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science
    • Year: 2023
    • Summary: This paper focuses on identifying and characterizing the Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinase (CDPK) gene family in patchouli. Understanding these genes provides insights into how patchouli regulates various physiological processes, especially under stress conditions.

  • Continuous Cropping of Patchouli Alters Soil Physiochemical Properties and Rhizosphere Microecology Revealed by Metagenomic Sequencing

    • Authors: Guangtao Gu, Muhammad Zeeshan Ul Haq, Xue Sun, Jingru Zhou, Ya Liu, Jing Yu, Dongmei Yang, Huageng Yang, Yougen Wu
    • Journal: Frontiers in Microbiology
    • Year: 2025
    • DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1482904
    • Summary: This study examines the impact of continuous cropping on soil properties and the rhizosphere microbial community associated with patchouli. Using metagenomic sequencing, the research reveals significant changes in soil pH, nutrient content, enzyme activities, and microbial diversity over successive cropping years, providing a theoretical basis for understanding and preventing continuous cropping obstacles.

  • Continuous Cropping of Patchouli and Soil Properties

    • Authors: Not specified in the provided information.
    • Journal: Plants (Basel, Switzerland)
    • Year: 2024
    • Summary: This paper investigates how continuous cropping affects soil properties in patchouli cultivation. The findings highlight alterations in soil nutrients, pH, and microbial communities, offering insights into sustainable agricultural practices for patchouli.

Conclusion

Dr. Yougen Wu is a strong candidate for the Research for Excellence in Innovation award. His contributions to medicinal plant biotechnology, molecular biology, and sustainable agriculture are highly impactful. Expanding industry collaborations and international research funding would further solidify his global research excellence.

Praveen Guleria | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Praveen Guleria | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award 

Assistant Profesor, at DAV University, Jalandhar, India.

Dr. Praveen Guleria is an Assistant Professor at DAV University, Jalandhar, specializing in Plant Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering. With a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from CSIR-IHBT, Palampur, his research explores genetic modifications to enhance plant resilience and productivity. Since joining DAV University in 2014, Dr. Guleria has been actively involved in academic leadership, securing research grants, and mentoring scholars. His work spans plant-microbe interactions, nanobiotechnology, and stress physiology. He has published extensively in reputed journals and serves as a member of several prestigious scientific societies. His contributions to plant biotechnology and sustainable agriculture continue to shape the field.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

ORCID

Education 🎓

Dr. Praveen Guleria completed his Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (Biotechnology) at CSIR-IHBT, Palampur (2009-2014), registered under AcSIR, New Delhi. His doctoral research focused on the functional evaluation of Steviol Glycoside biosynthesis pathway genes in Stevia rebaudiana using gene silencing and overexpression techniques. Prior to that, he earned an M.Sc. in Biotechnology from Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar (2007-2009), securing a Gold Medal. He qualified for multiple national-level competitive exams, including CSIR-JRF, ICMR-JRF, and GATE-Life Sciences in 2009, and received a DBT fellowship for his postgraduate studies. His academic journey is marked by excellence, with merit scholarships from HPBSE for his outstanding performance in matriculation and senior secondary examinations.

Experience 💼

Dr. Guleria joined DAV University, Jalandhar, as an Assistant Professor on August 22, 2014. Since then, he has contributed significantly to academia through research, teaching, and administrative roles. As the Coordinator of the Department of Biotechnology (2020-2023), he led academic initiatives and research advancements. He also served as the Chairperson of the Women Empowerment Cell and held responsibilities for NAAC accreditation. In 2023, he took on additional roles as the Coordinator of the Departments of Microbiology and Medical Lab Technology. His research supervision includes multiple Ph.D. and M.Sc. students, focusing on plant biotechnology, stress physiology, and nanotechnology applications. With active participation in international collaborations and scientific societies, he continues to drive innovation in agricultural biotechnology.

Research Interest 🌱

Dr. Guleria’s research interests encompass plant biotechnology, genetic engineering, and sustainable agriculture. He investigates plant-microbe interactions, stress tolerance mechanisms, and metabolic pathway modifications for improved crop resilience. His work integrates nanotechnology in agriculture, exploring the effects of nanoparticles on plant growth and stress adaptation. He also focuses on flavonoid biosynthesis, CRISPR genome editing, and biofortification strategies to enhance nutritional content in crops. His interdisciplinary research contributes to climate change adaptation and agricultural sustainability. Through collaborations with national and international researchers, he strives to develop innovative solutions for food security and environmental challenges.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Guleria has received numerous accolades for his academic and research excellence. He secured the 5th rank in the State Matriculation Examination (2002) and the 31st rank in the Senior Secondary Examination (2004), earning merit scholarships from HPBSE. His academic brilliance continued with a Gold Medal in M.Sc. (Biotechnology) at GJU S&T, Hisar (2009). He was awarded a DBT fellowship for his master’s studies and qualified for CSIR-JRF, ICMR-JRF, and GATE-Life Sciences in 2009. His research achievements include prestigious grants such as the DST-SERB Start-Up Grant (Rs. 22.4 Lacs) and DAV University Internal Funding (Rs. 75,000) for plant biotechnology projects. He is an esteemed member of various scientific societies, including AAAS, ISDS, and SCI, reflecting his global recognition.

Top Noted Publications 📚

Dr. Guleria has authored several impactful research papers in high-impact journals. His recent publications include:

  • Parbhakar, M., Guleria, P., & Kumar, V. (2025). Metal ferrite nanocomposite treatment reduced oxidative stress in Cucumis sativus. Physica Scripta.

    This study explores the application of metal ferrite nanocomposites in hydroponically grown Cucumis sativus (cucumber). The treatment aimed to mitigate oxidative stress, leading to improved growth dynamics of the plants. The findings suggest that incorporating these nanocomposites can enhance cucumber cultivation by reducing oxidative damage.

    ResearchGate

  • Chopra, S., et al. (2025). microRNA regulation in plant-microbe interactions. Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology.

    This paper delves into the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in modulating plant responses during interactions with microbes. It highlights how miRNAs influence gene expression related to both abiotic and biotic stress tolerances, thereby playing a crucial role in plant defense mechanisms. The study provides insights into potential strategies for enhancing crop resilience through miRNA pathways.

    ResearchGate

  • Chopra, S., et al. (2024). Microalgal nanostructures for environment and healthcare. Next Research.

    This research focuses on the potential applications of microalgal-derived nanostructures in environmental and healthcare sectors. The study discusses the synthesis of these nanostructures and their efficacy in areas such as pollutant degradation and as therapeutic agents, suggesting a sustainable approach to addressing environmental and health challenges.

  • Yusof, F. F., et al. (2024). Acclimation of Polygonum minus to low light. Journal of Plant Growth Regulation.

    This study examines how Polygonum minus, a plant species known for its aromatic and medicinal properties, adapts to low-light conditions. The research findings indicate that the plant undergoes specific physiological and morphological changes to acclimate to reduced light availability, which has implications for its cultivation in shaded environments.

  • Gautam, A., et al. (2024). Magnesium oxide nanoparticles enhance antioxidant potential in radish leaves. Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy.

    This paper investigates the impact of magnesium oxide nanoparticles on the antioxidant capacity of radish (Raphanus sativus) leaves. The results demonstrate that treatment with these nanoparticles significantly boosts the antioxidant levels in the leaves, suggesting a novel approach to improving the nutritional quality of radish through nanotechnology.

Conclusion

Dr. Praveen Guleria is a highly accomplished researcher in plant biotechnology, nanotechnology, and environmental adaptation. His academic achievements, research productivity, and leadership make him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. Strengthening international collaborations, industry partnerships, and patent filings could further enhance his candidacy.