XIanliang Zhao | Agricultural Technology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. XIanliang Zhao| Agricultural Technology
| Best Researcher Award

Supervisor at Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, China.

Dr. Zhao Xianliang is an accomplished Associate Professor at the School of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology. With a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, his research focuses on synthetic methodologies, molecular recognition, and functional materials. Dr. Zhao has held visiting positions at renowned U.S. institutions, including the University of Wisconsin–Madison and Texas Tech University. With over a decade of academic experience, he mentors graduate students and contributes significantly to the field through both teaching and research. He is recognized for his innovative work in green chemistry and polymer synthesis and has served as a Science and Technology Commissioner of Zhejiang Province. His academic journey reflects excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to chemical sciences.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Zhao earned his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry (2003–2007) at the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, under Prof. Wang Dong. His doctoral thesis focused on innovative one-pot, three-component reactions via the Barbier reaction in ionic liquids, contributing to green synthetic chemistry. He completed his M.S. in Organic Chemistry (2000–2003) at the Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, under Prof. Li Yuesheng, working on the synthesis of functional polyolefins, demonstrating early expertise in polymer chemistry. He holds a B.S. in Applied Chemistry (1996–2000) from Shandong Normal University. This solid and prestigious educational trajectory laid the foundation for his advanced research capabilities in organic synthesis, molecular recognition, and functional materials chemistry.

Professional Experience

Dr. Zhao Xianliang began his academic career in 2007 as a Lecturer at Zhejiang University of Science and Technology (ZUST) and has served as Associate Professor since December 2016. With over 15 years at ZUST, he plays a pivotal role in teaching and supervising master’s students. His international academic experience includes visiting scholarships at the University of Wisconsin–Madison (2015–2016) and Texas Tech University (2019–2020), where he expanded his research horizons and collaborations. His teaching and research activities bridge organic chemistry, polymer science, and chemical engineering. His extensive experience reflects a blend of academic rigor, international exposure, and dedication to mentoring future researchers in the chemical sciences.

Research Skills

Dr. Zhao Xianliang’s research is primarily centered on organic synthesis, green chemistry, and polymer science. His Ph.D. work on Barbier reactions in ionic liquids paved the way for environmentally friendly synthetic pathways. He continues to explore multi-component and one-pot reactions to develop efficient and sustainable synthetic methods. Another research stream includes the design and synthesis of functional polyolefins and polymeric materials with targeted properties, contributing to advanced material applications. With an interdisciplinary approach that spans from fundamental molecular design to application-driven chemical engineering, Dr. Zhao integrates innovation with real-world relevance. His collaborations with international institutions enhance his research quality, allowing him to remain at the forefront of contemporary challenges in organic and materials chemistry.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Zhao was selected for the 13th batch of Science and Technology Commissioners of Zhejiang Province (2017–2019), a prestigious appointment recognizing his contribution to regional technological innovation and knowledge transfer. This role positioned him at the intersection of academia and local industry, fostering real-world impact through applied research. His multiple international visiting appointments to top U.S. research universities reflect global recognition of his expertise. Although specific publication or patent awards are not listed, his steady career progression and institutional trust through supervisory and professorial roles underscore his professional excellence. These honors validate Dr. Zhao’s leadership in advancing both academic knowledge and practical chemical technologies within his field and region.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Zhao Xianliang is a strong and commendable nominee for the Best Researcher Award. His specialization in eco-friendly catalysis, leadership in mentoring, and international research engagement align well with the award’s intent to recognize impactful, innovative, and globally relevant research. With further strides into interdisciplinary integration and higher-tier global publications, his contributions will likely grow even more influential in the scientific community.

Publications Top Notes

Sulfonic acid-functionalized polyallylamine (Sevelamer) as an efficient reusable strong solid acid catalyst for the synthesis of xanthenes derivatives
Year: 2019 📅 | 🧪 Green Catalysis

Choline Chloride-Copper Chloride Catalyzed Cycloaddition of Alkynes and Azides in Aqueous Media
Year: 2017 📅 | 🌊 Click Chemistry in Water

Silver Nanoparticles Embedded in Modified Polyallylamine Resin as Efficient Catalysts for Alkyne–Azide 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition in Water
Year: 2016 📅 |  ⚗️ Nano-Catalysis

A New Synthetic Approach to Polysubstituted-2-pyridones from Enamino Esters and Diethyl Ethoxymethylenemalonate Under Catalyst- and Solvent-Free Conditions
Year: 2016 📅 |♻️ Solvent-Free Synthesis

Sevelamer as an Efficient and Reusable Heterogeneous Catalyst for the Knoevenagel Reaction in Water
Year: 2014 📅  | 🌿 Sustainable Catalysis

Polyguanidine as a Highly Efficient and Reusable Catalyst for Knoevenagel Condensation Reactions in Water
Year: 2013 📅 |  🔁 Recyclable Catalysts

Yadeta Bedasa | Agricultural Economics | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Yadeta Bedasa | Agricultural Economics | Young Scientist Award

Researcher from Wollega University, Ethiopia

Yadeta Bedasa is an emerging researcher and academic from Ethiopia with a strong background in agricultural economics, community service, and project management. With over eight years of experience, he has actively contributed to national development goals by addressing critical issues like food security, climate change, and conflict, particularly in East Africa and the Horn of Africa. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in agricultural economics, Yadeta has already achieved substantial academic milestones, including the authorship of several peer-reviewed articles, book publications, and active participation in national research conferences. His work reflects a deep commitment to understanding and improving agricultural systems, resource management, and household resilience among smallholder farmers. In addition to his research, Yadeta has engaged extensively in teaching, training, and community development, making him a well-rounded scholar-practitioner. His involvement in verified peer review activities across multiple journals further shows his active engagement in the global scientific community. Through his combined experience in research, teaching, project coordination, and academic service, Yadeta demonstrates the qualities of a dedicated and promising young scientist whose contributions are not only academically significant but also have meaningful social impact. His career trajectory indicates strong potential for leadership in research that addresses both local and international challenges.

Professional Profile

Education

Yadeta Bedasa holds a solid educational foundation that supports his research and academic pursuits. He completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Resource Economics and Management from Wollega University, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, between 2012 and 2016. This undergraduate training provided him with a comprehensive understanding of agricultural systems, economic principles, and resource management. Building on this, Yadeta pursued a Master of Science degree in Agricultural Economics at Jimma University, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, from 2017 to 2020. His graduate studies focused on advanced economic analysis, agricultural development, and policy research, equipping him with the tools needed to tackle complex issues affecting food systems in Ethiopia and the broader East African region. Currently, he is a Ph.D. candidate in Agricultural Economics, where his research focuses on food security, climate change, and conflict impacts in the Horn of Africa. His formal education has been complemented by additional certificates, including verified programs in programming fundamentals, Android development, data analysis, English proficiency, research methods, and publication training. Together, these qualifications form a robust educational profile that positions Yadeta as a knowledgeable and capable researcher in his field.

Professional Experience

Yadeta Bedasa has accumulated a diverse range of professional experiences over the past eight years, combining research, teaching, community service, and project management. From October 2015 to November 2022, he worked at Wollega University, where he gained extensive experience in teaching, delivering community services, and participating in national research activities. His role involved designing and conducting research projects, publishing articles, preparing reports, and training local communities on agricultural and economic development issues. Since November 2022, Yadeta has been serving as a Project Coordinator and Researcher at Jimma University, where his responsibilities include managing research projects, overseeing community-based initiatives, providing training programs, and contributing to peer review activities for reputable academic journals. His involvement in national research conferences across Ethiopia — at institutions such as Mettu, Wachamo, Wollega, Wolkite, and Arbaminch universities — showcases his active participation in the country’s academic and research landscape. Yadeta’s professional background reflects a balance between academic rigor, leadership, and practical engagement, making him a valuable contributor not only to his institution but also to the broader research community addressing agricultural and development challenges in Ethiopia and beyond.

Research Interests

Yadeta Bedasa’s research interests center around agricultural economics, food security, climate change, conflict, and rural livelihoods, with a strong focus on the East African and Horn of Africa regions. His work explores how agricultural policies, land use practices, irrigation systems, and water scarcity impact household resilience and food security among smallholder farmers. He is particularly interested in understanding the socio-economic drivers of agricultural efficiency and the adoption of improved agricultural technologies, such as potato and sesame varieties, to enhance productivity and food access. Yadeta also investigates the broader impacts of climate change on agricultural systems, integrating environmental, social, and economic dimensions to develop strategies for adaptation and resilience. His publications, including peer-reviewed articles and books, demonstrate his commitment to addressing urgent global challenges through rigorous empirical research and practical solutions. Moreover, his interest in linking research to community service reflects a strong desire to ensure that academic knowledge contributes directly to societal improvements. By combining theoretical insights with applied research, Yadeta’s work contributes to both the academic understanding and practical advancement of sustainable agricultural development, food system resilience, and rural economic transformation in regions facing multiple socio-environmental pressures.

Research Skills

Yadeta Bedasa possesses a wide range of research skills that enable him to conduct high-quality, data-driven studies in agricultural economics and related fields. He is proficient in using statistical and econometric tools such as SPSS, STATA, and GIS software for data analysis, modeling, and interpretation. His expertise in Microsoft Word and Excel allows him to efficiently manage data, prepare reports, and document research findings. Yadeta is skilled in writing and evaluating both research articles and project reports, reflecting his attention to detail and clarity in communication. His strong presentation abilities and experience in delivering training sessions enhance his capacity to share research findings with both academic and non-academic audiences. He also demonstrates effective leadership and project management skills, having coordinated multiple research projects and community service initiatives. Importantly, Yadeta has substantial experience in peer reviewing, with 96 verified peer reviews across 27 academic journals, which indicates his deep engagement with the global research community and his ability to critically evaluate scientific work. Together, these research skills equip Yadeta to conduct impactful, interdisciplinary studies that advance knowledge and inform policy and practice in agricultural development.

Awards and Honors

While specific formal awards are not explicitly listed in his profile, Yadeta Bedasa has achieved several significant professional milestones that reflect recognition and honor within his academic and research communities. Notably, he has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications addressing critical topics such as climate change, food security, and agricultural efficiency in Africa. His books, published under various ISBN numbers, contribute to scholarly discourse and extend his impact beyond journal articles. His active participation in five national research conferences at prominent Ethiopian universities showcases his reputation and standing as a researcher invited to present his work and engage with national academic audiences. Additionally, Yadeta has received a series of professional development certificates, including a verified nano-degree in programming fundamentals, Android development, data analysis, English proficiency, and research publication training, underscoring his commitment to continuous learning and skill enhancement. His verified peer review activity across 27 journals with 96 completed reviews reflects an acknowledgment of his expertise by the international research community, positioning him as a trusted academic peer and contributor. These achievements collectively demonstrate Yadeta’s recognition and growing influence in the fields of agricultural economics and development research.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Yadeta Bedasa is a highly promising young scientist whose research, professional experience, and dedication make him an excellent candidate for the Young Scientist Award. His contributions to the fields of agricultural economics, food security, and climate change address pressing global challenges, particularly in the context of East Africa and the Horn of Africa. Through his research publications, books, national conference participation, and peer review activities, Yadeta has demonstrated both academic excellence and practical impact. His combination of strong technical skills, project management experience, and community engagement further highlights his well-rounded capabilities. While expanding his international collaborations and publishing in higher-impact global journals could strengthen his future profile, his current achievements reflect a clear trajectory of growth, commitment, and meaningful contribution to science and society. Yadeta’s passion for addressing agricultural and development challenges, along with his leadership potential, positions him as a deserving nominee for the Young Scientist Award and a future leader in research that bridges academic knowledge with real-world solutions. His work not only advances scholarly understanding but also fosters positive change in the lives of communities affected by climate and food system pressures.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: The effect of climate change on food insecurity in the Horn of Africa
    Authors: Y. Bedasa, A. Bedemo
    Journal: GeoJournal
    Volume/Issue/Pages: 88 (2), 1829–1839
    Citations: 39
    Year: 2023

  2. Title: Food insecurity in East Africa: An integrated strategy to address climate change impact and violence conflict
    Authors: Y. Bedasa, K. Deksisa
    Journal: Journal of Agriculture and Food Research
    Volume/Article Number: 15, 100978
    Citations: 37
    Year: 2024

  3. Title: Is Africa’s food insecurity linked to land use coverage, irrigation adoption and water scarcity?
    Author: Y. Bedasa
    Journal: Irrigation and Drainage
    Volume/Issue/Pages: 73 (1), 334–345
    Citations: 9
    Year: 2024

  4. Title: Impact of improved potato varieties adoption on household resilience to food insecurity
    Authors: T. Tekalign, A. Eneyew, Y. Bedasa
    Journal: Journal of Agriculture and Food Research
    Volume/Article Number: 14, 100737
    Citations: 8
    Year: 2023

  5. Title: Review on economic efficiency of smallholders farmers in the production of sesame: The case of Ethiopia
    Authors: Y. Bedasa, B. Gebissa
    Journal: Journal of Investment and Management
    Volume/Issue/Pages: 9 (4), 107–114
    Citations: 5
    Year: 2020

  6. Title: Technical efficiency of smallholder farmers in sesame production (Ethiopia)
    Authors: Y. Bedasa, T. Tekalign
    Journal: SN Business & Economics
    Volume/Issue/Article Number: 4 (1), 3
    Citations: 1
    Year: 2023

  7. Title: Impacts of climate and non-climate factors on cereal crop yield in East Africa: A generalized method of moments (GMM) panel data analysis
    Authors: Y. Bedasa, A. Gemechu, A. Bedemo, B. Gebissa, B. Xiuguang
    Journal: Journal of Agriculture and Food Research
    Volume/Article Number: 21, 101829
    Year: 2025

Syed Najeebullah | Agricultural Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Syed Najeebullah | Agricultural Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Shahed University, Iran

Syed Najeebullah is a distinguished doctoral research scholar at the Agricultural Biotechnology Division of the National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE) in Faisalabad, Pakistan. His research focuses on genetic engineering of plants for insect resistance, leveraging advanced techniques like CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. Syed holds a Ph.D. in Biotechnology, an M.Phil. from Quaid-I-Azam University, and a B.S. from the University of Peshawar. His professional experience includes a research fellowship at Cornell University and roles in various prestigious projects and institutions. He has authored several high-impact publications, including in Frontiers in Plant Science and Gene. His technical expertise spans plant genetic engineering, DNA barcoding, and bioinformatics. Recognized with fellowships and awards such as the International Research Support Initiative Program (IRSIP), Syed Najeebullah’s innovative contributions and research excellence make him a notable candidate for significant research awards.

Profile

Education

Syed Najeebullah has a solid academic foundation in biotechnology, underscored by his extensive educational achievements. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Biotechnology at the Agricultural Biotechnology Division (ABD) of the National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (NIBGE) in Faisalabad, Pakistan. His research focuses on developing broad-spectrum insect resistance in model plant systems using multi-mechanistic strategies. Prior to his doctoral studies, Najeebullah earned an M.Phil. in Biotechnology from Quaid-I-Azam University, Islamabad, where he investigated the molecular systematics of selected plant species. His undergraduate studies culminated in a B.S. in Biotechnology from the University of Peshawar, where he worked on dengue virus interactions. This progressive educational journey reflects his deep commitment to advancing plant biotechnology through both theoretical knowledge and practical research.

Professional Experience

Syed Najeebullah’s professional experience is marked by a diverse and impactful career in biotechnology. He has worked as a researcher at the Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research at Cornell University, supported by a USDA grant, where he focused on plant genetic engineering and insect resistance. His tenure as a Research Assistant at the National Institute for Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering (NIBGE) involved engineering cotton for insect resistance. Additionally, Najeebullah served as a Scientific Officer at Qarshi Research International Pvt. Ltd., where he contributed to industry research. His role as a visiting lecturer at various institutions, including Government Higher Secondary School Fatehpur and AL-Qalam Welfare College, highlights his dedication to education. His early career also included research at Quaid-I-Azam University on DNA barcoding of medicinal plants and teaching roles at Rising Star Science School, reflecting a strong foundation in both research and education.

Research Interest

Syed Najeebullah’s research interests lie at the forefront of plant biotechnology, focusing on enhancing plant resistance to insect pests through genetic engineering. His work primarily involves the genetic modification of plants such as cotton, tobacco, and Arabidopsis to confer insect resistance. Najeebullah employs advanced genome editing techniques, particularly CRISPR/Cas9, to develop plants with enhanced defense mechanisms against insect pests. Additionally, his research includes DNA barcoding of plants for accurate identification and classification, and plant molecular systematics to understand the genetic relationships within plant species. His innovative approach aims to integrate multi-mechanistic strategies to achieve broad-spectrum insect resistance, which has significant implications for sustainable agriculture. By combining genetic engineering, molecular characterization, and cutting-edge bioinformatics, Najeebullah’s research addresses critical challenges in plant protection and contributes to the development of resilient crop varieties.

Research Skills

Syed Najeebullah demonstrates a robust set of research skills essential for advancing the field of biotechnology. His expertise in genetic engineering is highlighted by his work on developing insect-resistant plants through CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, showcasing his proficiency in cutting-edge techniques. Najeebullah’s technical abilities extend to plant transformation and regeneration, DNA barcoding, and molecular characterization, underscoring his comprehensive understanding of plant molecular systems. His adept use of bioinformatics tools such as NCBI, Geneious, and MEGA6 enhances his research capabilities, allowing for detailed analysis and data interpretation. Additionally, his experience with various cloning techniques and his involvement in high-impact research projects further demonstrate his ability to apply complex methodologies effectively. Najeebullah’s skills are complemented by his experience in proposal writing and technical reporting, reflecting his capability to communicate scientific findings and contribute to advancements in agricultural biotechnology.

Award and Recognition

Syed Najeebullah has garnered notable recognition for his impactful contributions to plant biotechnology. His research on genetic engineering and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing for insect resistance in plants has earned him prestigious awards and fellowships. He was honored with a Research Fellowship at the Boyce Thompson Institute at Cornell University and received support from the International Research Support Initiative Program (IRSIP) by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan. Additionally, he was awarded an M.Phil. Research Fellowship at Quaid-I-Azam University for his exceptional performance. His work has been recognized in high-impact journals such as Frontiers in Plant Science and Gene. These accolades reflect his commitment to advancing plant genetic engineering and his international standing in the field. Syed Najeebullah’s accomplishments underscore his dedication to innovative research and his significant contributions to agricultural biotechnology.

Conclusion

Syed Najeebullah is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His innovative research, strong academic background, and significant publications underscore his contributions to plant biotechnology. Addressing areas for improvement, such as broadening the impact of his research and increasing visibility, could further strengthen his candidacy. Overall, his achievements and expertise make him a strong contender for the award.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Smart Breeding Approaches in Post-Genomics Era for Developing Climate-Resilient Food Crops
    • Authors: Naqvi, R.Z., Siddiqui, H.A., Mahmood, M.A., Mansoor, S., Asif, M.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 15
  2. Title: Prevalence and Assessment of Associated Risk Factors of Hepatitis B and C Infections in Low-Socioeconomic Communities
    • Authors: Noreen, A., Alam, N., Syed, Z., Ahmed, T., Adnan, F.
    • Year: 2022
  3. Title: Ethno-Medicinal and Phytochemical Properties of Genus Allium: A Review of Recent Advances
    • Authors: Najeebullah, S., Shinwari, Z.K., Jan, S.A., Khan, I., Ali, M.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 20
  4. Title: DNA Barcoding and Molecular Systematics of Selected Species of Family Acanthaceae
    • Authors: Khan, I., Shinwari, Z.K., Zahra, N.B., Shinwari, S., Najeebullah, S.
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 13
  5. Title: Phytopharmacological and Ethnomedicinal Uses of the Genus Berberis (Berberidaceae): A Review
    • Authors: Khan, I., Najeebullah, S., Ali, M., Shinwari, Z.
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 58