Dr. Mozhgan Mardani-Talaee | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mozhgan Mardani-Talaee | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Insect Ecology, Physiology and Molecular Biology at Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Iran

Mozhgan Mardani-Talaee is a dedicated researcher with a strong academic background in entomology, specializing in insect ecology, physiology, and the molecular biology of tri-trophic interactions. Her research focuses on the interplay between plants, herbivores, and natural enemies, with an emphasis on sustainable agricultural practices. With a Ph.D. from the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, her thesis explored the impact of various fertilizers on the ecological and physiological performance of aphids and coccinellid predators. Mozhgan has cultivated practical expertise through internships and collaborative projects, showcasing her ability to merge theoretical knowledge with applied research. She is passionate about advancing ecological methods for pest management and sustainable crop production.

Professional Profile

Education

Mozhgan earned her Ph.D. in Entomology (2012–2017) from the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, focusing on the effects of fertilizers on plant-herbivore-predator interactions. She completed her M.Sc. in Entomology at the same institution (2009–2011), where she studied the biological parameters and feeding indices of Spodoptera exigua on corn hybrids. Her B.Sc. in Plant Protection was awarded by Lorestan University in 2008. Additionally, she pursued an internship at the University of Guilan (2016–2017), conducting advanced research on the physiological and antioxidant responses of aphids and predator gene expression under various fertilizer treatments.

Professional Experience

Mozhgan’s professional journey includes significant academic research and hands-on fieldwork. During her Ph.D. and M.Sc., she conducted in-depth studies on tri-trophic interactions, emphasizing the ecological impact of fertilizers. Her internship at the University of Guilan equipped her with practical experience in molecular biology techniques, focusing on gene expression in insect predators. While pursuing her academic degrees, Mozhgan also collaborated on projects involving sustainable pest management strategies and plant protection. Her expertise integrates applied entomology and ecological principles, making her a versatile and accomplished researcher.

Research Interests

Mozhgan’s research interests revolve around insect ecology, physiology, and molecular biology. She is particularly focused on tri-trophic interactions between plants, herbivores, and natural enemies. Her work aims to explore the ecological and physiological mechanisms underlying these interactions and how they are influenced by various agricultural practices, including the use of organic, biological, and chemical fertilizers. Mozhgan is also interested in the application of molecular biology tools to study gene expression and physiological responses in insects, contributing to the development of sustainable pest management solutions.

Research Skills

Mozhgan possesses a wide range of research skills that support her specialization in entomology. She is proficient in studying insect ecology and physiology, with expertise in tri-trophic interactions. Her technical capabilities include advanced molecular biology techniques such as gene expression analysis, antioxidant activity assays, and physiological performance assessments. She is skilled in experimental design, statistical analysis, and ecological modeling. Mozhgan’s practical experience in laboratory and field research enhances her ability to conduct interdisciplinary studies, integrating entomology, plant protection, and sustainable agriculture.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her academic career, Mozhgan has demonstrated excellence in entomological research. She has received recognition for her contributions to sustainable agricultural practices and tri-trophic interaction studies. Her thesis work has been acknowledged for its innovation in exploring the effects of fertilizers on ecological dynamics. While specific awards and honors are not listed, her selection for advanced internships and academic programs highlights her commitment to scientific excellence and her potential to contribute significantly to the field of entomology.

Conclusion

Mozhgan Mardani-Talaee has a solid foundation in entomology and interdisciplinary research, making her a suitable candidate for excellence in research awards. Her work on tri-trophic interactions and sustainable agriculture is innovative and impactful. However, enhancing her CV with publications, grants, and collaboration details would significantly strengthen her application. With some refinements, her profile aligns well with the award criteria and demonstrates potential for significant contributions to ecological and agricultural sciences.

Publication Top Notes

  1. The life table parameters of Rhyzopertha dominica (F.) (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae) reared on nine rainfed barley cultivars
    • Authors: Javanmard, P., Jafari, S., Mardani-Talaee, M.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Journal of Stored Products Research
    • Citations: 5
  2. Effect of different wheat cultivars on two sex life table parameters of Sitotroga cerealella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
    • Authors: Ghodjani, Z., Shakarami, J., Mardani-Talaee, M., Eduardo Serrão, J.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Journal of Stored Products Research
    • Citations: 4
  3. Evaluation of resistance of six chickpea cultivars to the cowpea weevil, Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) with age-stage, two-sex life table
    • Authors: Tahmasebi, M., Shakarami, J., Mardani-Talaee, M., Serrão, J.E.
    • Year: 2022
    • Journal: Journal of Stored Products Research
    • Citations: 6
  4. Micronutrient Fertilizers Affect the Digestibility, Intermediary Metabolism, and Oxidative Stress in Myzus persicae (Sulzer)
    • Authors: Alizamani, T., Shakarami, J., Mardani-Talaee, M., Zibaee, A., Serrão, J.E.
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Neotropical Entomology
    • Citations: 1
  5. Bio-fertilizers and micronutrients affect the digestibility, detoxification, and intermediary metabolisms of English grain aphid, Sitobion avenae, in greenhouse
    • Authors: Pourya, M., Shakarami, J., Mardani-Talaee, M., Sadeghi, A., Serrão, J.E.
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Journal of Asia-Pacific Entomology
  6. Investigation of induced resistance in wheat to Sitobion avenae (Hemiptera: Aphididae) under greenhouse conditions
    • Authors: Moradi, R., Shakarami, J., Mardani-Talaee, M.
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology
  7. Induced resistance in wheat Triticum aestivum L. by chemical- and bio-fertilizers against English aphid Sitobion avenae (Fabricius) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) in greenhouse
    • Authors: Pourya, M., Shakarami, J., Mardani-Talaee, M., Sadeghi, A., Serrão, J.E.
    • Year: 2020
    • Journal: International Journal of Tropical Insect Science
    • Citations: 10
  8. Direct interaction between micronutrients and bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.), to affect fitness of Myzus persicae (Sulzer)
    • Authors: Alizamani, T., Shakarami, J., Mardani-Talaee, M., Zibaee, A., Serrão, J.E.
    • Year: 2020
    • Journal: Journal of Plant Protection Research
    • Citations: 7
  9. Occurrence of the Invasive Lady Beetle Harmonia Axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in Iran
    • Authors: Mardani-Talaee, M., Zibaee, A., Rahimi, V., Mansouri, S.M., Nedvěd, O.
    • Year: 2019
    • Journal: Coleopterists Bulletin
    • Citations: 7
  10. Impact of Chemical, Organic and Bio-Fertilizers Application on Bell Pepper, Capsicum annuum L. and Biological Parameters of Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hem.: Aphididae)
    • Authors: Mardani-Talaee, M., Razmjou, J., Nouri-Ganbalani, G., Hassanpour, M., Naseri, B.
    • Year: 2017
    • Journal: Neotropical Entomology
    • Citations: 15

 

 

Sagarika Biswas | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Sagarika Biswas | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Chief Scientist at CSIR-IGIB, AcSIR, India

Dr. Sagarika Biswas is a distinguished Chief Scientist and Professor at the Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology (IGIB), Delhi, India. With a solid academic foundation and a rich research career spanning over three decades, she has become a recognized leader in the field of biotechnology, particularly in proteomics, bioinformatics, and metabolomics. Her research contributions, particularly in the areas of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, have earned her national and international recognition. Dr. Biswas’s expertise lies in elucidating disease mechanisms through proteomic and metabolomic profiling, and she has successfully led numerous research projects funded by prominent Indian and international agencies.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Biswas completed her Ph.D. in Biomedical Science from Bundelkhand University, Jhansi, India, in 2007, focusing on legume lectins and their role in soil fertilization. She holds an M.Tech. in Chemical Engineering/Technology from Laxminarayana Institute of Technology, Nagpur University, India, completed in 1991, and a B.Sc.Tech in Chemical Engineering/Technology from the same institution in 1989. Her foundational education in chemical engineering and technology, combined with advanced studies in biomedical science, has provided a strong interdisciplinary base for her subsequent research in biotechnology.

Professional Experience

Dr. Sagarika Biswas has held various prestigious positions, most notably as a Chief Scientist and Professor at the Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, CSIR-IGIB, since 2007. Over the years, she has led various groundbreaking research projects, including those focused on rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and cardiovascular diseases. She has also served as Principal Investigator for several nationally and internationally funded projects, collaborating with leading institutions such as AIIMS and the University of Leeds. Her work has significantly impacted our understanding of autoimmune disease mechanisms and the identification of potential biomarkers for early diagnosis and therapy.

Research Interests

Dr. Biswas’s research primarily focuses on biotechnology, with a specific emphasis on proteomics, bioinformatics, and metabolomics. Her work seeks to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying autoimmune diseases, particularly rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, through proteomic profiling. Additionally, her research involves investigating the role of glycoproteins, phosphoproteins, and metabolites in disease progression, with a focus on developing diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic strategies. She has also explored the therapeutic potential of plant-based formulations in modulating inflammation and improving disease outcomes.

Research Skills

Dr. Biswas possesses advanced research skills in proteomics, bioinformatics, and metabolomics, with a deep understanding of high-throughput proteomic and metabolic profiling techniques. She is proficient in the use of mass spectrometry, phosphoproteomics, and glycoproteomics to identify biomarkers and understand disease mechanisms. Her expertise extends to data analysis using bioinformatics tools and software, enabling her to interpret complex biological data sets. Additionally, Dr. Biswas is skilled in managing large-scale research projects, securing funding, and leading interdisciplinary teams to drive impactful research in the biomedical sciences.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Sagarika Biswas has received numerous prestigious awards and honors throughout her career. Notable international accolades include the Women in Science Award at the International Conference on Biotechnological, Chemical, and Environmental Sciences in 2023, the ICMR International Fellow Award in 2008, and the Helmholtz Fellowship in 2012. She has also received several national awards, such as the Professor MP Khare Memorial Lecture Award in 2022, for her contributions to glycobiology. Furthermore, Dr. Biswas has been recognized with numerous best oral and poster presentation awards at international and national conferences, showcasing the impact and relevance of her research in the scientific community.

Conclusion

Dr. Sagarika Biswas is a well-qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with her considerable achievements in biotechnology, awards at both international and national levels, and successful management of interdisciplinary projects. Her dedication to autoimmune and inflammatory disease research, combined with her specialized expertise in proteomics, positions her as a strong contender. Emphasizing continued high-impact publishing and broader outreach could further enhance her candidacy for future recognition.

Publication Top Notes

  • Chronic disease management via modulation of cellular signaling by phytoestrogen Bavachin
    • Authors: Chakraborty, D., Malik, S., Mann, S., Joshi, L., Biswas, S.
    • Journal: Molecular Biology Reports
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 51(1)
    • Pages: 921
    • Citations: 0
  • ITIH4 in Rheumatoid Arthritis Pathogenesis: Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Analysis Identify CXCR4 as a Potential Receptor
    • Authors: Joshi, L., Chakraborty, D., Kumar, V., Biswas, S.
    • Journal: Pathophysiology
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 31(3)
    • Pages: 514–530
    • Citations: 0
  • Clo-miR-14: a medicinally valued spice-derived miRNA with therapeutic implications in rheumatoid arthritis
    • Authors: Sarkar, A., Saquib, M., Chakraborty, D., Malhotra, R., Biswas, S.
    • Journal: Bioscience Reports
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 44(9)
    • Article Number: BSR20240311
    • Citations: 0
  • Targeting TNF-α-induced expression of TTR and RAGE in rheumatoid arthritis: Apigenin’s mediated therapeutic approach
    • Authors: Monu, Agnihotri, P., Saquib, M., Biswas, S.
    • Journal: Cytokine
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 179
    • Article Number: 156616
    • Citations: 1
  • Mitochondrial functioning in Rheumatoid arthritis modulated by estrogen: Evidence-based insight into the sex-based influence on mitochondria and disease
    • Authors: Malik, S., Chakraborty, D., Agnihotri, P., Sharma, A., Biswas, S.
    • Journal: Mitochondrion
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 76
    • Article Number: 101854
    • Citations: 1
  • Functional Significance of miR-4693-5p in Targeting HIF1α and Its Link to Rheumatoid Arthritis Pathogenesis
    • Authors: Saquib, M., Agnihotri, P., Sarkar, A., Malhotra, R., Biswas, S.
    • Journal: Non-coding RNA
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 10(2)
    • Article Number: 22
    • Citations: 1
  • Unveiling the Nexus: Cellular Metabolomics Unravels the Impact of Estrogen on Nicotinamide Metabolism in Mitigating Rheumatoid Arthritis Pathogenesis
    • Authors: Malik, S., Chakraborty, D., Agnihotri, P., Kumar, V., Biswas, S.
    • Journal: Metabolites
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 14(4)
    • Article Number: 214
    • Citations: 1
  • Computational Approaches for the Discovery of New Drugs for Inflammatory and Infectious Diseases
    • Authors: Dalal, V., Biswas, S.
    • Book Title: Computational Approaches in Bioengineering: Volume 1: Computational Approaches in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics
    • Year: 2024
    • Pages: 1–34
    • Citations: 0
  • Differential Expression of Fibrinogen Alpha and Its Potential Involvement in Osteoarthritis Pathogenesis
    • Authors: Kumavat, R., Kumar, V., Biswas, S.
    • Journal: Molecular Biotechnology
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1
  • Phytochemical profiling of polyphenols and thyroid stimulatory activity of Ficus religiosa leaf extract in 6-propyl-thiouracil-induced hypothyroid rats
    • Authors: Kar, A., Mahar, D., Biswas, S., Efferth, T., Panda, S.
    • Journal: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
    • Year: 2023
    • Volume: 313
    • Article Number: 116479
    • Citations: 3

Hyppolite Aïgnon | Biological Sciences | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Hyppolite Aïgnon | Biological Sciences | Young Scientist Award 

Northeastern University, China.

Hyppolite Loughbenon Aignon, a Beninese researcher born in 1991, specializes in fungal ecology and conservation. He earned his Ph.D. in Botany from the University of Parakou in 2021, focusing on the diversity and molecular taxonomy of the Inocybaceae family in West Africa. Aignon’s work spans fungal taxonomy, biogeography, and the application of fungi in ecosystem restoration and conservation. His research includes significant contributions to understanding fungal communities in West Africa, with a strong emphasis on the Inocybaceae family. He has held various positions, including research assistant and visiting researcher at institutions in Rwanda, Zambia, and Sweden. Aignon has been involved in numerous symposiums, including organizing the Symposium of Young Mycologists from Tropical Africa. His research is well-supported by grants from various organizations, and he has published extensively, contributing to several new taxa descriptions and international conferences.

Profile
Education

Hyppolite Loughbenon Aignon holds a distinguished academic background in the field of Botany and Agronomy. He earned his Ph.D. in Botany from the University of Parakou, Benin, in August 2021. His doctoral research focused on the diversity, molecular taxonomy, and phylogeny of the Inocybaceae family in West Africa. Prior to this, he completed his M.Sc. in Agronomy at the same institution in April 2016, where his thesis investigated the influence of soil characteristics on ectomycorrhizal fungi communities. His undergraduate studies in Agronomy, culminating in a B.Sc. degree in April 2013, involved research on the effects of thinning on teak growth in peasant forestry. Throughout his academic journey, Aignon has been guided by notable advisors including Nourou S. Yorou and Nestor Sokpon, contributing significantly to the field of fungal ecology and conservation.

Professional Experience

Hyppolite Loughbenon Aignon is an accomplished researcher with a strong focus on fungal ecology and conservation. He has held a position as a research assistant at the Tropical Mycology and Plant-Soil Fungi Interactions Unit at the University of Parakou, Benin, from January 2016 to June 2023. During this time, he managed the herbarium, supervised molecular and microscopic analyses, and contributed to conservation education and the monitoring of ectomycorrhizal fungi communities. Aignon has also been involved in several high-profile research visits, including stints as a visiting researcher at the University of Rwanda, University of Zambia, and Uppsala University. He has played a key role in organizing the Symposium of Young Mycologists from Tropical Africa and has led applied research projects aimed at ecosystem restoration and conservation of rare fungal species. His collaborative efforts extend to interdisciplinary projects and community science initiatives.

Research Interest

Hyppolite Loughbenon Aignon’s research focuses on fungal ecology, taxonomy, and conservation, with a particular emphasis on the family Inocybaceae in West Africa. His work delves into the diversity, molecular taxonomy, and phylogeny of fungi, exploring their ecological roles and interactions within various ecosystems. Aignon investigates fungal toxicity and biogeography, aiming to understand the distribution patterns and environmental impacts on fungal species. His research also includes the application of fungi in ecosystem restoration projects, specifically utilizing mycorrhizal fungi to rehabilitate degraded habitats. Collaborating with NGOs, he contributes to conservation programs for rare and endangered fungal species, integrating community science and interdisciplinary approaches. Through his efforts, Aignon seeks to enhance fungal biodiversity conservation and advance the scientific knowledge of fungal systems in tropical Africa.

Research Skills

Hyppolite Loughbenon Aignon possesses a diverse and robust set of research skills in the field of fungal ecology and conservation. His expertise spans fungal taxonomy, molecular phylogeny, and biogeography, with a focus on the Inocybaceae family in West Africa. Aignon is proficient in advanced molecular techniques, including DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis, which he has applied extensively during his research and training at institutions such as Uppsala University and the University of Rwanda. His experience in data analysis is reinforced by his skills in statistical software like R and Python, as well as GIS and remote sensing for studying fungal distributions. Additionally, Aignon’s role as a herbarium manager and his involvement in conservation education highlight his capacity to manage and analyze ecological data effectively. His collaborative work with ecologists, botanists, and soil scientists further underscores his interdisciplinary approach to research.

Awards and Recognition

Hyppolite Loughbenon Aignon has garnered significant recognition for his contributions to fungal ecology and conservation. In 2024, he received the prestigious Rufford Foundation grant for “Sustainable management and conservation of fungal biodiversity in West Africa,” highlighting his impact on regional biodiversity. He was awarded funding from the Society for the Protection of Underground Networks in June 2024 for his research on Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi, reflecting his commitment to advancing fungal science. His work on the Inocybaceae family was further acknowledged with the Hesler Visiting Researcher Fellowships in March 2024, supporting his phylogenetic classification studies. Additionally, Aignon’s role in organizing the Symposium of Young Mycologists from Tropical Africa in November 2023, supported by various international organizations, underscores his leadership in the mycology community. These accolades underscore Aignon’s dedication to fungal research and conservation efforts in West Africa.

Conclusion

Hyppolite Loughbenon Aignon is a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His expertise in fungal ecology and conservation, combined with his international research experience, organizational skills, and successful grant acquisitions, highlights his significant contributions to the field. To strengthen his candidacy further, focusing on increasing the impact factor of his publications, broadening the application of his research, and diversifying his research topics could be beneficial.

Publications Top Notes

  • Pseudosperma brunneopilosum, a new species of Inocybaceae from West Africa
    • Authors: Aïgnon, H.L., Fan, Y.-G., Matheny, P.B.
    • Year: 2024
  • A new species of Inosperma, and first record of I. afromelliolens (Inocybaceae, Fungi) from West Africa
    • Authors: Aïgnon, H.L., Fan, Y.-G., De Kesel, A., Ryberg, M., Yorou, N.S.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 2
  • Four new nodulose-spored species of Inocybe (Agaricales) from West Africa
    • Authors: Aïgnon, H.L., Jabeen, S., Verbeken, A., Yorou, N.S., Ryberg, M.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 3
  • Mallocybe africana (Inocybaceae, Fungi), the first species of Mallocybe described from Africa
    • Authors: Aïgnon, H.L., Naseer, A., Matheny, B.P., Yorou, N.S., Ryberg, M.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 15
  • State of knowledge on the diversity, phylogeny and distribution of Inocybaceae in Africa
    • Authors: Aïgnon, H.L., Acar, İ., Naseer, A., Yorou, S.N.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 2
  • Three new species of Inosperma (Agaricales, Inocybaceae) from Tropical Africa
    • Authors: Aïgnon, H.L., Jabeen, S., Naseer, A., Yorou, N.S., Ryberg, M.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 16