Associate Professor, at Isfahan University of Technology, Iran.
Dr. Majid Talebi 🇮🇷, born in 1977 in Yazd, Iran, is a distinguished Associate Professor at the Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology (IUT). With a deep-rooted passion for plant genetics, molecular biology, and sustainable agriculture, he has devoted over two decades to academic and scientific excellence. His multidisciplinary work spans biotechnology of medicinal plants, genetic engineering, and molecular plant-microbe interactions. Dr. Talebi’s academic leadership is evident in his roles as department head, research institute director, and leader of IUT’s E-learning and international campus initiatives. A mentor, innovator, and prolific author, he has published numerous impactful articles in high-impact journals and collaborates internationally. His work bridges traditional agriculture with advanced biotechnology, contributing significantly to Iran’s agricultural innovation ecosystem. 🌿👨🔬📚
Professional Profile
Scopus
🎓 Education
Dr. Talebi’s educational journey reflects a continuous pursuit of excellence in plant biotechnology and genetics. He earned his Ph.D. in Biotechnology and Plant Breeding from Isfahan University of Technology (2009), where his doctoral research focused on Sinorhizobium meliloti and its genetic diversity in alfalfa. During this time, he completed a sabbatical at the University of Florence, Italy (2007–2008), enriching his exposure to evolutionary genetics. Prior to that, he received an M.Sc. in Biotechnology from IUT in 2003, investigating genetic diversity in pomegranate using RAPD markers. His foundational education includes a B.Sc. in Horticultural Science from Shahrekord University (2000), a Technical Associate Degree from Shiraz University (1998), and a high school diploma in Natural Sciences (1995). With each academic step, he deepened his expertise in molecular genetics, plant physiology, and biotechnology, forming a robust base for his future scientific endeavors. 🧪📘🌱
💼 Experience
Dr. Talebi brings over 15 years of experience in academic leadership, research, and teaching. Since 2008, he has been a faculty member at Isfahan University of Technology (IUT), rising to Associate Professor and leading multiple strategic initiatives. His leadership roles include Head of the Department of Biotechnology (2012–2014, 2020–2023), Deputy of Administrative and Finance (2014–2017), Director of the Research Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (2022–2023), and most recently, Head of IUT’s E-learning and International Campus (since 2023). He teaches a wide array of advanced courses in biotechnology, bioinformatics, and genetic engineering. Beyond classroom walls, Dr. Talebi has significantly shaped research and policy directions in Iran’s agricultural biotechnology landscape. His commitment to academic innovation and scientific collaboration has made him a trusted leader, mentor, and visionary in Iranian higher education. 🏫🔬📈
🔬 Research Interest
Dr. Talebi’s research lies at the cutting edge of plant biotechnology and molecular genetics. His work spans molecular markers, rhizobia-plant interactions, bioinformatics, genetic engineering, and medicinal plant biotechnology. He is especially interested in understanding plant stress responses at the molecular level, using transcriptomics and metabolomics to explore gene expression and biochemical pathways under abiotic and biotic stress conditions. He has conducted pioneering work on the genetic diversity of microbial symbionts, secondary metabolite pathways in medicinal plants, and antioxidant defense mechanisms. Additionally, he is active in plant cell and tissue culture, using these tools to enhance metabolite production and stress resilience. His interdisciplinary approach connects field biology with computational genomics and laboratory biochemistry, offering sustainable solutions to agricultural challenges in arid regions. Dr. Talebi’s research is widely cited and continues to impact both applied and theoretical plant sciences. 🌾🧬🧠
🏆 Awards and Recognition
Dr. Majid Talebi has been consistently recognized for his academic and scientific contributions. His leadership as department head and research institute director has earned him accolades within Isfahan University of Technology (IUT), where he spearheaded innovative research and curriculum development. He has been a key figure in international academic collaborations, notably during his sabbatical at the University of Florence. His impactful publications in high-impact journals such as Scientific Reports, Journal of Plant Growth Regulation, and International Journal of Molecular Sciences reflect his global research footprint. While formal national or international awards are not listed, his roles in strategic institutional leadership—including heading IUT’s international campus and E-learning center—are testaments to his academic stature and trust within the institution. His continuous grant acquisition, publication output, and mentoring roles further solidify his status as a leading academic in Iranian biotechnology. 🥇📖🌐
📚 Top Noted Publications
Dr. Talebi has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles across diverse fields of plant biotechnology and molecular biology. Below are some notable publications:
🧪 Azolla caroliniana under Lead Stress
Journal: International Journal of Phytoremediation (2025)
Summary:
This study investigates the phytoremediation potential of Azolla caroliniana under lead (Pb) stress. Researchers examined the plant’s lead uptake capacity, morphological responses, and antioxidant enzyme activity. Results highlight Azolla’s resilience and suggest its potential role in remediating Pb-contaminated water bodies.
Key Findings:
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Significant accumulation of Pb in fronds and roots.
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Enhanced activities of SOD, CAT, and POD enzymes.
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Chlorophyll content decreased under high Pb exposure.
Impact: Demonstrates Azolla’s viability as an eco-friendly option for lead pollution control.
🌿 Silymarin Biosynthesis in Milk Thistle
Journal: Journal of Plant Growth Regulation (2025)
Summary:
This work focuses on the molecular regulation of silymarin biosynthesis in Silybum marianum (milk thistle), a key medicinal plant. The study explores transcriptional activity of key genes in the flavonolignan pathway under hormonal and environmental stress.
Key Findings:
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Upregulation of CHS, PAL, and F3H genes under MeJA and salicylic acid treatments.
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Correlation of biosynthesis rate with developmental stage and stress exposure.
Impact: Offers insights into metabolic engineering to boost silymarin content for pharmacological use.
🕷️ Antibiotic–Acaricide Synergy Against Mites
Journal: Systematic and Applied Acarology (2025)
Summary:
This paper explores the synergistic effects of combining antibiotics with acaricides to combat resistant spider mite (Tetranychidae) populations. Using bioassays and enzyme inhibition studies, the researchers evaluated mortality rates and detoxification gene expression.
Key Findings:
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Antibiotic-acaricide combinations showed enhanced mortality (up to 85%).
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Downregulation of CYP450 and esterase genes post-treatment.
Impact: Suggests a novel integrated pest management strategy, reducing acaricide resistance in agriculture.
🌾 Rhynchosporium commune Effectors in Barley
Journal: Scientific Reports (2025)
Summary:
The study identifies and characterizes effector proteins from Rhynchosporium commune, the fungus causing barley scald. Researchers utilized comparative genomics and transcriptomics to find host-targeted effectors.
Key Findings:
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15 candidate effector genes identified with predicted nuclear localization.
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Upregulation during early infection stages.
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Knockout mutants showed reduced virulence in barley.
Impact: Offers targets for breeding barley lines with improved disease resistance.
🍅 Tomato Yield & Gene Expression Under LED Light
Journal: Scientific Reports (2024)
Summary:
This research analyzes the effects of LED spectrum variation on tomato plant growth, yield, and gene expression. Specific emphasis was placed on red/blue ratios and their influence on flowering, photosynthesis, and fruit production.
Key Findings:
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Blue-red LED mix (1:3 ratio) yielded the highest fruit weight and lycopene content.
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Expression of photosynthesis-related genes (psbA, rbcL) significantly increased.
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Improved stomatal conductance and chlorophyll content observed.
Impact: Helps optimize indoor and vertical farming light conditions for enhanced productivity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dr. Majid Talebi stands out as a highly deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award. His consistent record of scholarly publications, deep subject-matter expertise, and academic leadership place him among the top-tier researchers in agricultural biotechnology. With over 15 years of academic service, a rich portfolio of research contributions, and a strong commitment to teaching and mentoring, he exemplifies the values and impact of a top researcher. Minor strategic enhancements could elevate his profile further on the international stage. He is a prime candidate for recognition and merits this award based on his scientific excellence, innovation, and institutional leadership.