Ritu Kumari | Botany | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Ritu Kumari | Botany | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | Lovely Professional University | India

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ritu Kumariis a dedicated researcher in the field of Botany with specialization in Plant Physiology, committed to advancing knowledge in abiotic stress tolerance and plant signaling. Her academic journey through esteemed institutions in Punjab reflects a deep-rooted passion for understanding how plants respond to environmental challenges. Her research primarily focuses on the regulatory mechanisms of signaling molecules such as nitric oxide and hydrogen sulfide in enhancing plant resilience under salt stress. With extensive experience in multi-stress simulation, biochemical assays, and antioxidant response analysis, she strives to develop sustainable strategies for crop improvement. Assist. Prof. Dr. Ritu Kumari has co-authored impactful publications and book chapters in reputed journals and international volumes, contributing significantly to plant stress biology, physiology, and crop management. Her research profile includes 21 citations by 21 documents, 7 published works, and an h-index of 2, reflecting her growing scholarly impact. Her collaborations with distinguished scientists across India, China, and Saudi Arabia highlight her global research engagement. Recipient of prestigious awards for her scientific presentations, she actively participates in international conferences and workshops focused on sustainable agriculture and environmental resilience. Through her innovative work and academic collaborations, Assist. Prof. Dr. Ritu Kumari aims to translate plant physiological insights into practical solutions for agricultural sustainability and food security.

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Featured Publications

Kumari, R., Kapoor, P., Mir, B. A., Singh, M., Parrey, Z. A., Rakhra, G., Parihar, P., et al. (2024). Unlocking the versatility of nitric oxide in plants and insights into its molecular interplays under biotic and abiotic stress. Nitric Oxide, 150, 1–17.

Kumari, R., Khan, M. N., Parrey, Z. A., Kapoor, P., Mir, B. A., Taziun, T., Parihar, P., et al. (2025). Synergistic effects of hydrogen sulfide and nitric oxide in enhancing salt stress tolerance in cucumber seedlings. Physiologia Plantarum, 177(1), e70109.

Kapoor, P., Parrey, Z. A., Mir, B. A., Wani, A. W., Kumari, R., Rakhra, G., Joshi, R., et al. (2025). Flaxseed in diabetes management: Nutritional and therapeutic insights. Current Nutrition Reports, 14(1), 1–18.

Ahmad, Z., Kumari, R., Mir, B. A., Saeed, T., Firdaus, F., Vijayakanth, V., Keerthana, K., Ramakrishnan, M., & Wei, Q. (2025). Bamboo for the future: From traditional use to Industry 5.0 applications. Plants, 14(19), 3019.

Kumari, R., Rakhra, G., Alsahli, A. A., Bhat, J. A., & Ahmad, P. (2025). Exploring the potential of signaling molecules hydrogen sulfide and nitric oxide in augmenting salt stress resilience in bitter gourd. BMC Plant Biology, 25(1008), 14.

Victor Davy Moussango | Phytopathology | Best Research Article Award

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Dr. Victor Davy Moussango | Phytopathology | Best Research Article Award

Assistant Professor at University of Douala, Cameroon

Dr. Victor Davy Moussango is a Cameroonian biochemist and Assistant Professor at the University of Douala. With a strong foundation in molecular biology, phytopathology, and QHSE engineering, he has contributed significantly to the development of natural antifungal agents and nanobiopesticides targeting plant pathogens. His interdisciplinary approach combines advanced biotechnological techniques with quality and safety standards to promote sustainable agro-industrial practices. Recognized with several national and international awards, including the IFEAT Young Scientist Fellowship and the Best Academic Start-up Award, Dr. Moussango continues to bridge academia, industry, and research for impactful innovation in biotechnology and food safety.

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Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry (2018–2021), Faculty of Science, University of Douala, Cameroon.

  • QHSE Engineering (2019–2021), ESSEC Business School, University of Douala, Cameroon.

  • Diploma of Advanced Studies in Biochemistry (2016–2017), University of Douala, Cameroon.

  • Master 1 in Biochemistry (2014–2015), Faculty of Science, University of Douala, Cameroon.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry (2013–2014), Faculty of Science, University of Douala, Cameroon.

Experience 💼

Dr. Victor Davy Moussango is currently an Assistant Professor at the Biotechnology Laboratory, University Institute of Technology, University of Douala, Cameroon. He also serves as an Associate Researcher in the Laboratory of Biochemistry of Natural Substances and HSEQ Manager at the Quality Control Laboratory of the University-Business Cooperation Platform (PCUE). Dr. Moussango has over a decade of combined experience in teaching, research, and quality management. He has held teaching positions at ISTAMA, IUE, and CIERSA, where he lectured on topics ranging from molecular biology and phytopathology to QHSE standards and agro-industrial technologies. His QHSE expertise includes key roles at ADDIMI ETS and Colgate Palmolive Cameroon, focusing on quality assurance and occupational health and safety within industrial and research laboratory settings.

Research Interest 🔍

Dr. Moussango’s research interests span biochemistry, molecular biology, plant pathology, bioactive natural products, nanobiopesticides, nanotechnology, and food safety. He specializes in the molecular characterization of phytopathogenic fungi, development of nanopesticides from essential oils, and evaluation of antimicrobial and antifungal activities of natural substances. His work also explores QHSE integration in laboratory settings and the application of bioinformatics for food safety surveillance.

📈 Author Metrics

  • Peer-Reviewed Publications: 4 (2021–2023)

  • International Journal Articles: 3

  • Conference Proceedings: > 5 presentations

  • Patent: 1 filed with OAPI (nanobiopesticide formulation)

  • Fellowships & Awards:

    • Young Scientists IFEAT Fellowship, Italy (2023)

    • 1st Prize Best Academic Start-Up, Univ. of Douala (2021)

    • President’s Academic Scholarship, Cameroon (2015–2021)

Publications 📄

  • In Vitro and In Situ Activity of Cymbopogon citratus Essential Oil Against Alternaria alternata and Phomopsis carica-papayae, Causal Agents of Papaya Leaf Diseases
    Authors: Davy Moussango Victor, Ebong Priscille, Voundi Steve, Ampère Bedine, Dikongue Fabiola, Ntah Moise, Youassi Olivier, Mekemzeu Patience, Tchameni Severin, Sameza Modeste
    Journal: Journal of Plant Sciences, Volume 12, Issue 2, April 2024, Pages 55–63
    DOI: 10.11648/j.jps.20241202.11
    Summary: This study evaluates the antifungal potential of Cymbopogon citratus essential oil against pathogens causing papaya leaf diseases, demonstrating significant inhibitory effects both in vitro and in situ.

  • Screening of Trichoderma Isolates and Potential of Their Organic Extract to Control Phytophthora megakarya, the Causative Agent of Cocoa Black Pod Disease
    Author: Davy Moussango Victor
    Publication Date: May 2023
    Summary: The research focuses on identifying Trichoderma isolates with antagonistic properties against Phytophthora megakarya, highlighting the potential of their organic extracts in controlling cocoa black pod disease.

  • Identification of Native Soil-Derived Trichoderma spp. Isolates and Analysis of Their Antagonist Traits Against Lasiodiplodia theobromae Causing Stem-End Rot in Papaya
    Authors: Marie Ampères Bedine Boat, Nadira Taïeb, Sofia Agriopoulou, L Miche, Davy Moussango, Modeste Lambert Sameza, Nathalie Dupuy, Sevastianos Roussos, Fabrice Fekam Boyom
    Journal: Archives of Phytopathology and Plant Protection, 2022, Volume 55, Issue 15, Pages 1766–1794
    DOI: 10.1080/03235408.2022.2116689
    Summary: This study characterizes native Trichoderma isolates from soil and evaluates their antagonistic effects against Lasiodiplodia theobromae, offering insights into potential biocontrol agents for papaya stem-end rot.

Conclusion

Dr. Victor Davy Moussango exhibits a compelling combination of innovation, sustainability, and real-world application in his phytopathology research. His work on biopesticides and fungal disease control in tropical crops stands out for its scientific merit, originality, and societal impact.

Despite a relatively young publication portfolio, the depth and quality of his research, his entrepreneurial achievements, and his patent-pending technology make him a very deserving nominee for the Best Research Article Award.

Hamidreza Soufi | Plant Factory | Best Faculty Award

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Dr. Hamidreza Soufi | Plant Factory | Best Faculty Award

Hamidreza Soufi at Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan, Iran

Dr. Hamidreza Soufi is a postdoctoral researcher and horticultural scientist specializing in the physiology and breeding of vegetable crops in controlled environments. With a Ph.D. from Vali-e-Asr University and international collaboration experience in Poland, his research emphasizes optimizing LED light conditions and hydroponic systems for enhanced plant growth, biochemical efficiency, and gene expression. He has contributed significantly to the field through interdisciplinary projects involving light manipulation, nutrient management, and postharvest treatments. He is also proficient in atomic absorption and ICP-MS analytical methods, supporting his work with robust experimental data.

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Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Horticultural Science
    Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan, Iran
    Thesis: The effects of different spectral LED lights on growth, physiological and biochemical characteristics, and gene expression of lettuce under three different supplementary nutrient solutions in a hydroponic system
    Supervisor: Prof. Hamid Reza Roosta
    Advisors: Dr. Hazem M. Kalaji, Dr. Mohsen Hamidpour, Dr. Khalil Malekzadeh

  • M.Sc. in Vegetable Physiology and Breeding
    Lorestan University, Iran
    Thesis: The effect of salinity on morpho-physiological parameters of different fenugreek cultivars in a hydroponic system
    Supervisor: Dr. Abdollah Ehtesham Nia
    Advisor: Dr. Foad Fatehi

  • B.Sc. in Horticultural Science
    Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Iran

Experience 💼

Dr. Hamidreza Soufi serves as a skilled technician in ICP-MS and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy at the Central Laboratory of Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, with additional experience in analytical instrumentation and sample preparation. He has collaborated with multiple academic and international advisors, conducting advanced research in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), LED light spectra optimization, and nutrient solution management in hydroponic systems. His multidisciplinary work spans physiology, breeding, and molecular biology of vegetable crops.

Research Interest 🔍

  • Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA)

  • Hydroponic cultivation systems

  • Vegetable crop physiology and gene expression

  • LED light spectrum manipulation

  • Nutrient solution optimization

  • Postharvest physiology and shelf-life enhancement

  • Analytical techniques in plant and soil sciences

Publications 📄

1. Title: Manipulation of light spectrum is an effective tool to regulate biochemical traits and gene expression in lettuce under different replacement methods of nutrient solution
Authors: H.R. Soufi, H.R. Roosta, P. Stępień, K. Malekzadeh, M. Hamidpour
Journal: Scientific Reports
Volume/Issue: 13(1), Article 8600
Year: 2023
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35014-7
Citations: 13
Summary: This study explores how manipulating the light spectrum can impact lettuce’s biochemical traits and gene expression when grown under different nutrient solution replacement strategies.

2. Title: The plant growth, water and electricity consumption, and nutrients uptake are influenced by different light spectra and nutrition of lettuce
Authors: H.R. Soufi, H.R. Roosta, M. Hamidpour
Journal: Scientific Reports
Volume/Issue: 13, Article 20766
Year: 2023
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48284-1
Citations: 11
Summary: This paper examines the impact of various light spectra and nutrient levels on growth parameters, water and energy usage, and nutrient uptake in lettuce plants.

3. Title: Spectral composition of LED light differentially affects biomass, photosynthesis, nutrient profile, and foliar nitrate accumulation of lettuce grown under various replacement methods of nutrient solution
Authors: H.R. Soufi, H.R. Roosta, F. Fatehi, M. Ghorbanpour
Journal: Food Science & Nutrition
Pages: 1–20
Year: 2023
DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3735
Citations: 9
Summary: Investigates the effects of different LED light compositions on lettuce growth, nutrient content, photosynthetic performance, and nitrate accumulation, considering various nutrient solution replacement methods.

4. Title: The roles of light in a plant factory: photosynthesis efficiency and gas exchange parameters of lettuce as a function of light spectra
Authors: H. Soufi, H.M. Kalaji, M. Hamidpour, K. Malekzadeh
Journal: Greenhouse Plant Production Journal
Volume/Issue: 1(1), 1–26
Year: 2024
Citations: 7
Summary: Focuses on optimizing light spectra for improving photosynthesis efficiency and gas exchange in lettuce within a closed plant factory environment.

5. Title: Evaluation of the growth characteristics and changes in the concentration of some nutrient elements of garlic affected by different nitrogen sources and alkalinity in nutrient solution
Authors: M. Shojaee, H. Roosta, M. Roozban, H. Soufi
Journal: Horticultural Plant Nutrition
Volume/Issue: 2(1), 33–50
Year: 2019
Citations: 2
Summary: This study explores how garlic growth and elemental nutrient concentrations are influenced by various nitrogen sources and pH/alkalinity levels in hydroponic systems.

Conclusion

Dr. Hamidreza Soufi stands out as a promising and impactful research leader in the field of Plant Factory and Controlled Environment Agriculture. His publication quality, interdisciplinary skills, and relevance to global agricultural challenges make him a strong contender for the Research for Best Faculty Award, particularly if the selection committee values innovative, early-career researchers with a strong research trajectory.

Ms. Yashika Bansal | Plant Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

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Ms. Yashika Bansal | Plant Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

Ms. Yashika Bansal, Jamia Hamdard, India

Yashika Bansal is an accomplished researcher from Jamia Hamdard University with a robust portfolio of publications in top-tier journals, such as Frontiers in Plant Science and Plants-MDPI. With expertise in experimental design, R-Programming, and both qualitative and quantitative analysis, she excels in scientific writing and mentoring, contributing significantly to advancing the field through research and international collaborations.

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Based on Yashika Bansal’s impressive research background, she appears well-suited for consideration for the Women Researcher Award. Here’s a structured analysis based on “Strengths for the Award,” “Areas for Improvement,” and a conclusion:

Strengths for the Award

Yashika’s research portfolio is strong, showcasing an extensive list of publications in reputable journals such as Frontiers in Plant Science and Genes-MDPI. Her experience spans across diverse and specialized areas of botany and plant science, including experimental design, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and proficiency with advanced research tools such as R-Programming, Flow Cytometry, and Scanning Electron Microscopy. Additionally, she has received numerous recognitions, including CSIR-UGC NET, GATE-Life Sciences, and DBT-JRF/SRF awards, which highlight her academic excellence and dedication. Her involvement in collaborative projects, mentoring experience, and contributions to international conferences further reinforce her qualifications.

Areas for Improvement

While Yashika’s profile is highly accomplished, focusing more on applying her research findings to practical environmental solutions or community impact could strengthen her application. Expanding her research into broader, real-world implications, especially in areas such as sustainable agriculture, biodiversity conservation, or ecological restoration, could add an impactful dimension to her achievements. Additionally, pursuing more inter-disciplinary collaborations could further enhance the diversity of her research skills.

Education 🎓

Ph.D. in Botany (pursuing, expected Dec 2025) – Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi

M.Sc. in Botany (May 2019) – Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi

B.Sc. in Life Sciences (May 2019) – Delhi University, New Delhi

Experience 🔬

As a Ph.D. Scholar at Jamia Hamdard since Dec 2020, Yashika has demonstrated an ability to work both independently and collaboratively. She is experienced in documenting experimental procedures and findings, publishing impactful research, and building collaborative relationships with external organizations. Yashika has presented her work at national and international conferences and is committed to mentoring junior researchers, furthering both her research and the development of emerging scientists.

Research Interest 🌿

Yashika’s research interests encompass plant science, with a focus on experimental design, transcriptomics, and metabolomics. Her expertise in advanced analytical techniques, such as flow cytometry, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and quantitative analysis, supports her studies on plant physiology and conservation strategies. She is dedicated to advancing sustainable solutions and conservation in plant biotechnology.

Awards 🏆

CSIR-UGC NET (2019)

GATE-Life Sciences (2020)

DBT-JRF (2020)

DBT-SRF (2023)

Certifications 📜

Electron Microscopy Training Program (AIIMS, New Delhi, 2022)

Flow Cytometry Workshop (Jamia Hamdard, 2023)

R-Programming Workshop (Nano Science and Technology Consortium, 2023)

RNA-Seq Analysis Workshop (Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, 2024)

Metabolomics Data Analysis Workshop (Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, 2024)

Conferences/Seminars 📣

Presented at the International Symposium on Advances in Plant Biotechnology and Nutritional Security (ICAR, New Delhi, 2022)

Presented at International Conference on Plant Physiology and Biotechnology (Lovely Professional University, 2023)

Participated in 14th AFOB Regional Symposium on Innovations and Emerging Technologies in Asian Biotechnology (2023)

Publication Top Notes 📚

2024 – Bansal, Y., et al. Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Non-Organogenic and Organogenic Tissues of Gaillardia pulchella Revealing Genes Regulating De Novo Shoot Organogenesis. Horticulturae, 10(11), p.1138 – cited by 12

2024 – Bansal, Y., et al. Integrated GC-MS and UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS based untargeted metabolomics analysis of in vitro raised tissues of Digitalis purpurea L. Frontiers in Plant Science, 15, 1433634 – cited by 18

2024 – Fatima, T., et al. Indirect Organogenesis of Calendula officinalis L. Agronomy, 14(8), 1743 – cited by 9

2024 – Bansal, M., et al. In Vitro Shoot Organogenesis of Gaillardia pulchella Foug. Horticulturae, 10(7), 728 – cited by 5

Conclusion

Yashika Bansal’s established record of scholarly achievements, international presentations, and proficiency in cutting-edge scientific techniques make her a strong candidate for the Women Researcher Award. With her consistent performance and slight focus on broader applicability of her work, she could further solidify her position as an exemplary researcher in her field.