Shumei Hei | Plant Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shumei Hei | Plant Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor from Yan’an University, China

Dr. Shumei Hei is an accomplished Associate Professor and plant physiologist at the College of Life Sciences, Yan’an University. With over two decades of experience in teaching and research, she has established a strong academic presence in the field of plant stress physiology, particularly focusing on carbon dioxide (CO₂) signaling and stomatal regulation. Her career is characterized by a consistent research focus, scholarly productivity, and leadership in both scientific investigation and academic service. Dr. Hei’s work addresses fundamental questions related to how plants perceive and respond to environmental signals, particularly elevated CO₂ levels, through molecular pathways involving hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide, and G-protein signaling. Her research contributes both to basic plant science and to potential applications in agriculture and environmental sustainability. Dr. Hei has successfully led multiple funded research projects at national and provincial levels, published in high-impact international journals, and earned several academic honors for teaching and scientific innovation. She is also actively involved in mentoring graduate students and contributing to editorial and review boards. Her dedication to both scientific discovery and academic excellence makes her a respected figure in her field and a valuable contributor to the broader life sciences community in China and beyond.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Shumei Hei holds a comprehensive academic background in the biological sciences, with all her degrees earned from reputable Chinese institutions. She earned her Ph.D. in Botany from Shaanxi Normal University between 2012 and 2018, with her dissertation focusing on the signaling mechanisms involved in CO₂-regulated stomatal movement, a subject that has continued to define her research trajectory. Prior to her doctoral studies, she completed a Master of Science in Botany at the same university from 2002 to 2005, where she further strengthened her foundation in plant physiological processes. Her initial entry into the academic world began with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Education from Yan’an University, where she studied from 1996 to 2000. This educational progression demonstrates a deep-rooted commitment to plant biology, beginning with a strong pedagogical base and advancing into sophisticated, specialized research on plant-environment interactions. The continuity in her educational choices underscores her focused interest in plant physiology and her long-standing relationship with institutions in the Shaanxi province. Her advanced training has enabled her to explore complex physiological processes in plants and translate that knowledge into impactful scientific contributions and teaching.

Professional Experience

Dr. Hei has built her professional career entirely at Yan’an University, showcasing steady academic progression and institutional loyalty. She began as a Teaching Assistant in 2005 shortly after completing her master’s degree, where she gained initial teaching experience in biological sciences. In 2006, she was promoted to Lecturer, a position she held for twelve years, during which she balanced teaching responsibilities with her growing involvement in research. Her ability to contribute meaningfully to both education and scientific inquiry was recognized in 2018 when she was appointed as an Associate Professor at the College of Life Sciences. In this capacity, she mentors master’s students, leads grant-funded projects, and publishes extensively in both international and national journals. Her long tenure at Yan’an University is marked by dedication to curriculum development, student mentorship, and the establishment of a productive research program. In addition to her academic roles, she has actively participated in institutional service, including editorial duties and membership in professional societies. Her professional experience reflects a strong alignment between teaching, research, and service, with a particular emphasis on applying scientific insights to local and global plant biology challenges.

Research Interest

Dr. Shumei Hei’s research interests center around plant stress physiology, with a specific focus on how plants respond to changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. Her primary area of investigation is the molecular and biochemical signaling pathways that mediate stomatal movement in response to CO₂. These studies delve into the roles of carbonic anhydrase, G-proteins, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), and nitric oxide (NO) in regulating guard cell function, which has implications for plant water use efficiency and adaptation to climate change. Additionally, her research addresses hormonal crosstalk involving ethylene and brassinosteroids in stomatal behavior. Beyond stomatal regulation, Dr. Hei has extended her investigations to applied agricultural issues, such as the physiology of jujube fruit cracking and the optimization of soilless cultivation techniques. This dual emphasis on fundamental signaling mechanisms and practical agricultural problems demonstrates her versatility and relevance in the plant sciences. Her work contributes to improving our understanding of plant adaptation strategies and provides a scientific basis for enhancing crop resilience. The consistent theme across her projects is the integration of environmental signals into physiological responses, making her research highly relevant to both academic inquiry and sustainable agriculture.

Research Skills

Dr. Hei possesses a robust set of research skills that span molecular biology, plant physiology, and biochemical analysis. She is proficient in designing and executing experiments related to guard cell signaling, particularly those investigating the roles of reactive oxygen species like hydrogen peroxide and signaling molecules such as nitric oxide. Her research frequently involves model organisms like Arabidopsis thaliana, allowing her to apply genetic and physiological tools to elucidate plant responses to elevated CO₂. She has experience in using microscopy, physiological assays, and various detection techniques for signal molecules, including the quantification of H₂O₂ and NO in plant tissues. In addition to wet-lab skills, Dr. Hei has demonstrated expertise in scientific writing, grant preparation, and project management, having led several nationally and provincially funded research initiatives. Her ability to integrate molecular insights with applied physiological outcomes is evident in her work on fruit cracking and greenhouse cultivation techniques. She also actively mentors students in research methodologies, ensuring that her lab serves as a training ground for future scientists. Overall, her research skills encompass experimental design, data analysis, and interdisciplinary integration, making her well-equipped to conduct high-level investigations in plant biology.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Shumei Hei has received several honors and awards that reflect both her scientific achievements and her contributions to education. She has been recognized multiple times by Yan’an University with Outstanding Teaching Awards, receiving this accolade in 2010, 2019, 2022, and 2023. These awards affirm her excellence and consistency in teaching and student engagement. Her scientific contributions have also been acknowledged at both municipal and provincial levels. In 2014, she received the Third Prize in the Shaanxi Provincial Science and Technology Awards, while in 2013, she was awarded the Second Prize by Yan’an City for contributions to local scientific development. In 2022, she was honored with the title of “Model Female Contributor” by Yan’an University, highlighting her role as a leader and role model within the academic community. These awards underscore her balanced commitment to both scientific inquiry and educational service. Her accolades serve as a testament to her credibility, influence, and dedication within the research and academic landscape of China, especially in the field of plant physiology.

Conclusion

Dr. Shumei Hei exemplifies the qualities of a well-rounded researcher and educator, making her a compelling candidate for a Best Researcher Award. Her academic journey is marked by focused specialization in plant physiology, particularly in the area of CO₂-regulated stomatal movement. Through her leadership of nationally and provincially funded research projects, she has contributed valuable insights into plant-environment interactions. Her body of work includes high-impact international publications, regional applied research on jujube fruit physiology, and a demonstrated ability to mentor the next generation of scientists. Additionally, her consistent recognition through teaching awards and science prizes illustrates her dual commitment to research and education. Although her international visibility and collaborative footprint could be expanded, her foundational and applied research skills are strong and impactful. She also serves her institution and field through editorial and evaluation roles. Taken together, Dr. Hei’s achievements in research, education, and service reflect a distinguished career that aligns well with the values of scholarly excellence and academic contribution. Her work is not only scientifically rigorous but also contextually relevant, addressing both global challenges and local agricultural issues.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Gα protein mediates high-concentration CO₂-induced stomata closure through interaction with carbonic anhydrase to promote guard cell hydrogen peroxide production in Arabidopsis
    Authors: Chen‐Xi Zhang, Xue Kang, Qun‐Wei Bai, Jin‐Xia Li, Ming‐Tao Mu, Xiao‐Yu Ma, Shu‐Mei Hei
    Journal: Plant, Cell & Environment
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: The regulator of G-protein signalling protein mediates D-glucose-induced stomatal closure via triggering hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide production in Arabidopsis
    Authors: Shu-Mei Hei, Zhi-Feng Liu, Ai-Xia Huang, Xiao-Ping She
    Journal: Functional Plant Biology
    Year: 2018
    Volume(Issue): 45(5), Pages: 509–518

  3. Title: Ethylene mediates brassinosteroid-induced stomatal closure via Ga protein-activated hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide production in Arabidopsis
    Authors: Chen-Yu Shi, Cheng Qi, Hong-Yan Ren, Ai-Xia Huang, Shu-Mei Hei, Xiao-Ping She
    Journal: The Plant Journal
    Year: 2015
    Volume(Issue): 82(2), Pages: 280–301

  4. Title: Relationship between H₂O₂ and NO and their enzymatic sources in high-concentration CO₂-induced stomatal closure
    Authors: Shu-Mei Hei, Xiao-Ping She
    Journal: Journal of Shaanxi Normal University (Natural Science Edition)
    Year: 2018
    Volume(Issue): 46(3), Pages: 80–86

  5. Title: Correlation between water dynamics and fruit cracking during jujube maturation
    Authors: Shu-Mei Hei, Zhi-Qian Hao, Ting Li, Xue-Yan Zhang, Rui Li
    Journal: Northern Horticulture
    Year: 2015
    Issue: (22), Pages: 34–36

  6. Title: Research advances on the relationship between jujube fruit tissue structure and fruit cracking
    Authors: Shu-Mei Hei, Xiao-Dong Feng, Hai-Fei Chang
    Journal: Journal of Shanxi Agricultural Sciences
    Year: 2015
    Volume(Issue): 43(7), Pages: 916–918

  7. Title: Relationship between water metabolism changes and fruit cracking in jujube
    Authors: Shu-Mei Hei, Juan-Yun Cao, Xiao-Dong Feng, Hai-Fei Chang
    Journal: Journal of Yunnan Normal University (Natural Science Edition)
    Year: 2016
    Volume(Issue): 36(1), Pages: 62–65

  8. Title: Rooting study on Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Laurentii’ in hydroponic culture
    Authors: Shu-Mei Hei, Jin Wang, Hai-Fei Chang, Xiao-Dong Feng
    Journal: Journal of Yunnan Normal University (Natural Science Edition)
    Year: 2015
    Volume(Issue): 36(5), Pages: 56–59

  9. Title: Research progress on the relationship between physiological characteristics of jujube fruit and fruit cracking
    Authors: Shu-Mei Hei, Xiao-Dong Feng, Hai-Fei Chang
    Journal: Journal of Minzu University of China (Natural Sciences Edition)
    Year: 2015
    Volume(Issue): 24(2), Pages: 10–12, 20

  10. Title: Growth adaptability of black tomato ‘Kezhi’ in Yan’an greenhouse cultivation
    Authors: Xue Kang, Dong-Ping Zhang, Xiao-Dong Feng, Hai-Fei Chang, Shu-Mei Hei
    Journal: Journal of Yan’an University (Natural Science Edition)
    Year: 2023
    Volume: 42, Pages: 47–49, 57

Qingyou Liu | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Qingyou Liu | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Foshan University, China

Prof. Qingyou Liu is a distinguished researcher with an extensive background in animal genomics, microbiome studies, and evolutionary biology. With over 220 published papers in top-tier journals such as Nature Communications, National Science Review, Advanced Science, Microbiome, Molecular Biology and Evolution, and Journal of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, he has made significant contributions to understanding genome structures, microbial ecosystems, and livestock evolution. His work on whole-genome sequencing, microbiome composition, and gene expression patterns has advanced the field of veterinary and agricultural sciences. Prof. Liu has collaborated internationally, working with researchers across multiple disciplines to enhance genomic and microbiome research. His contributions are highly cited, reflecting the impact of his findings on global scientific knowledge. He has been instrumental in pioneering studies on buffalo and goat genomics, contributing to livestock breeding and conservation strategies. His research continues to shape modern approaches to genetic mapping, microbiome interaction, and evolutionary biology. Through his leadership in research projects and academic collaborations, Prof. Liu remains at the forefront of scientific innovation in animal sciences. His dedication to interdisciplinary research and commitment to advancing genomics and microbiome studies solidify his position as a leading scientist in his field.

Professional Profile

Education

Prof. Qingyou Liu obtained his academic training in animal genetics, microbiology, and molecular biology. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, laying the foundation for his interest in genetic research. He then pursued a Master’s degree specializing in livestock genetics, where he focused on the genetic traits and evolutionary characteristics of domesticated species. His doctoral studies further expanded his expertise in genomics, microbiome interactions, and evolutionary biology, with a particular focus on ruminant species. During his Ph.D., he conducted extensive research on the genome sequencing of buffalo and goats, contributing significantly to the understanding of their genetic adaptations. To further enhance his expertise, Prof. Liu undertook postdoctoral training at a leading international research institution, where he collaborated on genomic studies and advanced bioinformatics analysis. His academic journey has been marked by rigorous research and specialization in animal biotechnology, genome mapping, and microbiome interactions. His educational background, combined with advanced training in bioinformatics, molecular genetics, and microbiology, has equipped him with the skills necessary to lead groundbreaking research in animal science. Through continuous learning and specialization, Prof. Liu has established himself as a prominent figure in genomics and microbiome research.

Professional Experience

Prof. Qingyou Liu has held various academic and research positions throughout his career, contributing to his extensive experience in genomics and microbiome studies. He currently serves as a professor at a leading research university, where he leads genomic research on livestock species. Prior to this, he worked as a senior researcher in a top-tier biological research institute, where he focused on animal genomics and microbiome interactions. His role involved leading large-scale genome sequencing projects and mentoring young researchers in the field. Additionally, Prof. Liu has served as a principal investigator on multiple international research collaborations, working with experts from various institutions worldwide. He has been actively involved in organizing conferences, workshops, and academic forums related to animal genetics and microbiome research. His contributions extend beyond academia, as he has also collaborated with agricultural industries and biotechnology firms to apply genomic research in livestock breeding programs. Over the years, he has successfully secured research funding from national and international scientific organizations, supporting his innovative projects. His professional journey showcases his commitment to advancing research in animal genetics, microbiome science, and evolutionary biology, reinforcing his status as a key figure in the scientific community.

Research Interests

Prof. Qingyou Liu’s research interests primarily focus on animal genomics, microbiome studies, and evolutionary biology. His work explores the genetic foundations of domesticated species, with a particular emphasis on buffalo and goat populations. One of his key research areas is whole-genome sequencing, where he investigates genetic diversity, evolutionary adaptations, and gene expression patterns in livestock. He is also deeply interested in microbiome interactions, studying how microbial communities influence animal health, digestion, and productivity. His research extends to the role of phage genomes in ruminant microbiomes, uncovering how viral ecosystems contribute to microbiome stability. Additionally, Prof. Liu explores chromosome-level genome mapping, enhancing our understanding of recombination processes in animal genetics. His work contributes to livestock breeding, conservation biology, and precision agriculture by identifying genetic markers for disease resistance and improved productivity. He is also interested in bioinformatics and computational genomics, utilizing advanced data analysis techniques to decode complex genetic information. Through his research, he aims to bridge the gap between genetics, microbiome science, and animal husbandry, offering valuable insights for sustainable livestock management. His interdisciplinary approach ensures that his work remains relevant and impactful in both scientific and agricultural communities.

Research Skills

Prof. Qingyou Liu possesses a wide range of research skills, making him a leader in genomics and microbiome studies. He has expertise in whole-genome sequencing, allowing him to analyze genetic diversity and evolutionary traits in livestock species. His proficiency in bioinformatics and computational biology enables him to process and interpret complex genomic data, leading to breakthrough discoveries in animal genetics. He is skilled in microbiome analysis, using metagenomics and microbial culturing techniques to study microbial ecosystems in animal digestive tracts. His expertise in molecular biology techniques, such as PCR, gene expression profiling, and DNA sequencing, further enhances his research capabilities. Prof. Liu is also experienced in comparative genomics, analyzing evolutionary relationships among species through genetic data. Additionally, he has strong skills in statistical genomics, applying mathematical models to study gene interactions and inheritance patterns. His leadership in large-scale research projects showcases his project management and scientific writing skills, as evidenced by his numerous high-impact publications. He is also adept at collaborative research, working with interdisciplinary teams to advance genomic studies. His diverse skill set allows him to make significant contributions to livestock genetics, microbiome science, and precision breeding strategies.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Qingyou Liu has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to genomics and microbiome research. He has been honored with the Best Researcher Award for his groundbreaking work in animal genetics and evolutionary biology. His research achievements have earned him national and international recognition, including prestigious academic awards from scientific organizations in genetics, microbiology, and veterinary sciences. He has received funding grants from leading research foundations, further demonstrating the significance of his work. His high-impact publications have also been recognized with Excellence in Research Awards from various academic institutions. Additionally, Prof. Liu has been invited as a keynote speaker at global conferences on genomics and microbiome studies, further highlighting his influence in the scientific community. He has been awarded membership in esteemed scientific societies, acknowledging his contributions to the advancement of genetic research. His dedication to scientific innovation and mentorship has also been recognized through awards for academic leadership. These accolades reflect his commitment to pushing the boundaries of genomics and microbiome research, reinforcing his status as a leading scientist in the field.

Conclusion

Prof. Qingyou Liu’s extensive contributions to genomics, microbiome science, and evolutionary biology establish him as a leading researcher in his field. With over 220 publications in top-tier journals, his work has significantly advanced the understanding of genetic diversity, microbiome interactions, and evolutionary processes in livestock. His research has not only expanded academic knowledge but also contributed to practical applications in animal breeding and conservation. His expertise in genome sequencing, microbiome analysis, and bioinformatics ensures that his work remains at the forefront of scientific innovation. His ability to lead international collaborations and secure prestigious research funding further highlights his impact. Prof. Liu’s achievements have been recognized through numerous awards and honors, affirming his role as a key figure in animal genetics and microbiome research. While he continues to make groundbreaking discoveries, expanding his outreach efforts and industry collaborations could further enhance the real-world impact of his work. Overall, his dedication to scientific excellence, interdisciplinary research, and knowledge dissemination solidifies his position as a highly respected and influential scientist in the global research community.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Multi-Omics Sequencing Dissects the Atlas of Seminal Plasma Exosomes from Semen Containing Low or High Rates of Sperm with Cytoplasmic Droplets
    Authors: Zilu Zhang, Xiaoxian Xu, Fumei Chen, Qingyou Liu, Zhili Li, Xibang Zheng, Yunxiang Zhao
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Role of Milk Intake in Modulating Serum Lipid Profiles and Gut Metabolites
    Authors: Ting Xu, Chang Zhang, Yufeng Yang, Liang Huang, Qingyou Liu, Ling Li, Qingkun Zeng, Zhipeng Li
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Novel Insight into the Composition Differences Between Buffalo and Holstein Milk and Potential Anti-Inflammation and Antioxidant Effect on Caco-2 Cells
    Authors: Luyao Wang, Xinyue Hu, Jiaqi Jiang, Dong Wang, Chaobin Qin, Ling Li, Deshun Shi, Qingyou Liu, Jian Wang, Hui Li et al.
    Year: 2024

  • Title: In Silico Analysis: Molecular Characterization and Evolutionary Study of CLCN Gene Family in Buffalo
    Authors: Yiheng Fu, Muhammad Farhan Khan, Yingqi Wang, Shakeela Parveen, Mehwish Sultana, Qingyou Liu, Laiba Shafique
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Meta-Genomic Analysis of Different Bacteria and Their Genomes Found in Raw Buffalo Milk Obtained in Various Farms Using Different Milking Methods
    Authors: Ling Li, Wenhao Miao, Zhipeng Li, Li Huang, Enghuan Hau, Muhammad Farhan Khan, Qingyou Liu, Qingkun Zeng, Kuiqing Cui
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Unveiling the Role of circRBBP7 in Myoblast Proliferation and Differentiation: A Novel Regulator of Muscle Development
    Authors: Yufeng Yang, Kongwei Huang, Hancai Jiang, Shuwan Wang, Xiaoxian Xu, Yang Liu, Qingyou Liu, Mingsong Wei, Zhipeng Li
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Construction and Identification of a Breast Bioreactor for Human-Derived Hypoglycemic Protein Amylin
    Authors: Kongwei Huang, Xiuying Yan, Zhipeng Li, Fuhang Liu, Kuiqing Cui, Qingyou Liu
    Year: 2024

  • Title: An Effective Strategy for Assembling the Sex-Limited Chromosome
    Authors: Xiao-Bo Wang, Hong-Wei Lu, Qing-You Liu, A-Lun Li, Hong-Ling Zhou, Yong Zhang, Tian-Qi Zhu, Jue Ruan
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Transcriptome Analyses Reveal Transcriptional Profiles of Horse Oocytes Before and After In Vitro Maturation
    Authors: Xinhui Song, Hancai Jiang, Peiru Lv, Kuiqing Cui, Qingyou Liu, Shan Yin, Hongbo Liu, Zhipeng Li
    Year: 2023

  • Title: Chromosome-Level Genome and Recombination Map of the Male Buffalo
    Authors: Qingyou Liu, Hui Li, Jue Ruan, Deshun Shi, Xiaobo Wang, Kuiqing Cui, Xier Luo, Tong Feng, Zhipeng Li, Dongdong Wu
    Year: 2023