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.

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.