XUEYING MAO | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Prof . XUEYING MAO | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Professor from China Agricultural University, China

Professor Xueying Mao is a distinguished academic and researcher at the College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University. With over two decades of academic experience, she has built a strong profile in the field of dairy science, particularly in the study of milk fat globule membranes, food digestion, and nutritional bioactivity. Her scientific contributions have gained recognition through publications in top-tier journals like Trends in Food Science & Technology and Food Chemistry, where she has consistently served as the sole corresponding author. Professor Mao has shown a focused commitment to research that addresses the compositional and interfacial properties of milk, enhancing the understanding of dairy functionality and nutritional outcomes. She is currently a participating investigator in a major National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) Key Project on ultra-high temperature sterilized milk proteins. Her long-standing academic involvement, rigorous scientific inquiry, and impactful publications have solidified her reputation as a leader in food science research. She has also made significant contributions to academic mentorship and the development of food technology education in China. Professor Mao’s work reflects both scientific depth and practical relevance, making her an exemplary candidate for prestigious recognitions such as the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

Education

Professor Xueying Mao has pursued a progressive academic path with a strong foundation in both animal and food sciences. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Animal Nutrition from Hebei Agricultural University in 1993, where she began her early academic engagement in nutritional studies. Continuing her academic journey, she obtained a Master’s degree in Animal Nutrition from Huazhong Agricultural University in 1996, developing deeper expertise in the biological and nutritional sciences of livestock and food production. She culminated her formal academic training with a Ph.D. in Food Science and Engineering from China Agricultural University in 2003. Her doctoral studies marked a transition into the food science discipline, integrating her background in animal nutrition with modern food processing and biochemical research. To further enhance her research capabilities, she completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Peking University from 2003 to 2005, where she likely broadened her interdisciplinary exposure and laboratory experience. This blend of education across different institutions and specialties has provided Professor Mao with a comprehensive understanding of food and nutritional sciences, from fundamental animal-based studies to advanced food engineering. Her educational background has laid a robust scientific and technical foundation for her extensive research career in dairy and nutritional engineering.

Professional Experience

Professor Xueying Mao has accumulated extensive professional experience in academia and research, marked by a steady progression through teaching and research roles. Her professional journey began in 1996 at the College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, where she served as a Lecturer. During this period, she focused on teaching and foundational research in animal nutrition. In 2005, she joined the College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering at China Agricultural University as an Associate Professor. Her appointment marked a significant transition into food science, allowing her to apply her background in animal nutrition to emerging topics in food digestion and dairy processing. In 2013, she was promoted to Full Professor, a role she continues to hold today. Her professional growth reflects a trajectory of increasing leadership, mentorship, and research responsibilities. Notably, Professor Mao has been actively involved in several national-level research projects and has led or co-authored numerous influential publications. Her long-term association with China Agricultural University, a leading institution in agricultural and food sciences, has allowed her to contribute substantially to academic development, curriculum design, and collaborative research. Her career exemplifies sustained academic excellence and dedication to advancing food science in China.

Research Interest

Professor Xueying Mao’s research interests lie at the intersection of dairy science, food chemistry, and nutritional bioengineering. She is particularly focused on the composition, structural behavior, and functional properties of milk fat globule membranes (MFGM). Her work investigates the differences between natural and processed milk, with special attention to how interfacial properties affect digestion, bioactivity, and overall health benefits. A core component of her research explores comparative lipid digestion and immunomodulatory effects between goat and cow milk, providing valuable insights for both nutritional science and the dairy industry. In recent years, she has delved into the mechanisms of protein complex formation during ultra-high temperature (UHT) treatment and how these changes influence the development of aged gels, which are relevant in food storage and processing. Her current involvement in a National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) Key Project exemplifies her leadership in addressing fundamental questions in food biochemistry. Professor Mao’s research bridges basic scientific understanding with practical applications in dairy processing, human health, and food formulation. Her studies contribute to the development of more functional and digestible dairy products, and she remains committed to expanding knowledge on food interfaces, emulsions, and bioactive food components.

Research Skills

Professor Xueying Mao possesses a robust set of research skills that support her work in food science and dairy technology. She is highly proficient in proteomic analysis, biochemical characterization, and structural evaluation of food emulsions, particularly milk fat globule membranes (MFGM). Her ability to study interfacial behavior at the molecular level enables her to unravel complex digestion and bioactivity mechanisms of dairy products. Professor Mao is skilled in designing and conducting comparative digestion studies, in vitro simulations, and analyzing the impact of food processing techniques such as ultra-high temperature (UHT) treatment on protein-lipid complexes. Her scientific approach is systematic and interdisciplinary, integrating analytical chemistry, nutritional biology, and food engineering. She is adept at using modern laboratory instruments for mass spectrometry, chromatography, and advanced microscopy, enabling high-precision evaluations of food structure and functionality. In addition, she has extensive experience in scientific writing, journal publication, and grant proposal development. Her leadership in collaborative research projects also highlights her capabilities in project coordination, data interpretation, and academic mentoring. Overall, Professor Mao’s technical expertise and methodological rigor place her among the leading researchers in the field of food and nutritional sciences.

Awards and Honors

While specific named awards are not listed in the provided information, Professor Xueying Mao’s career achievements reflect substantial academic recognition through prestigious project involvement and high-impact publications. She is currently a principal participant in a Key Project funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), which signifies a competitive and prestigious acknowledgment of her research capabilities at the national level. Her repeated role as the sole corresponding author in internationally renowned journals like Trends in Food Science & Technology and Food Chemistry demonstrates a high degree of academic leadership and international recognition. These roles are typically reserved for researchers who contribute significantly to experimental design, data interpretation, and manuscript preparation. Her promotion to Full Professor at China Agricultural University and her long-standing tenure at this elite institution also point to continued institutional trust and acknowledgment of her research excellence. Although no formal awards are explicitly mentioned, her scholarly impact, project leadership, and publication record collectively affirm her status as a highly respected researcher in her domain. Additional documented honors or recognitions, if available, would further reinforce her qualifications for high-level academic awards and honors.

Conclusion

Professor Xueying Mao stands out as a seasoned researcher whose contributions to dairy science and nutritional engineering are both scientifically significant and socially relevant. Her focused research on the behavior of milk fat globule membranes and lipid digestion addresses key challenges in food functionality, health impact, and industrial processing. With a strong academic background, leadership in national research initiatives, and a series of impactful publications as sole corresponding author, Professor Mao exemplifies the qualities of a high-caliber researcher. Her methodical approach to studying food structure and digestion bridges basic science and applied technology, supporting innovations in food design and public nutrition. Though there is room to enhance her profile through broader project leadership or increased industry collaboration, her consistent academic excellence and subject matter depth firmly establish her as a leading figure in her field. She is well-qualified for consideration for the Best Researcher Award, and her career trajectory continues to reflect a strong commitment to scientific advancement and academic service. With continued support and recognition, Professor Mao is poised to make even greater contributions to the advancement of food science and engineering in China and internationally.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: The effect of degree of esterification of pectin on the grainy properties of post-heated fermented milk
    Authors: Gao, Fei; Mao, Xueying; Wang, Pengjie; Song, Sijia; Li, Dongdong
    Journal: Food Hydrocolloids
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: Changes in the interfacial properties of camel milk fat globules induced by homogenization and thermal processing: Implications for digestive characteristics
    Authors: Jiang, Hui; Xu, Yunxuan; Chen, Gangliang; Mao, Xueying
    Journal: Food Chemistry
    Year: 2025

  3. Title: Camel milk endogenous peptides ameliorated hyperglycemia in high-fat diet-fed C57BL/6 J mice in association with modulation of gut microbiota and the IRS/Akt and JNK/p38 pathways
    Authors: Zheng, Qianwen; Chen, Gangliang; Mao, Xueying
    Journal: Food Research International
    Year: 2025

  4. Title: Preheating intensity affects the properties of age gelation formed in direct ultra-high-temperature skim milk
    Authors: Liu, Xiaohan; Gong, Han; Hu, Yifan; Ren, Fazheng; Mao, Xueying
    Journal: International Dairy Journal
    Year: 2025

  5. Title: The compositions of milk fat globule membrane determine the interfacial behavior, digestive properties, and bioactivities: Natural versus processed forms (Review)
    Authors: Ma, Zhiyuan; Gong, Han; Liu, Biao; Mao, Xueying
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 2

  6. Title: Corrigendum to “Differences in proteomic profiles and immunomodulatory activity of goat and cow milk fat globule membrane” Food Chemistry 455 (2024) 139885
    Authors: Jiang, Hui; Gong, Han; Li, Qin; Gao, Jingxin; Mao, Xueying
    Journal: Food Chemistry (Corrigendum)
    Year: 2025

Kindye Belaye Wassie | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Kindye Belaye Wassie | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

LECTURER from Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia

Kindye Belaye Wassie is an Ethiopian plant scientist specializing in forest biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Currently a lecturer and researcher at Bahir Dar University’s Department of Plant Sciences, he has contributed to the understanding of how diverse biological systems interact within forest environments. With a focus on enhancing conservation and management strategies, his research aims to secure the long-term sustainability of these critical ecosystems. Kindye has published several peer-reviewed articles in international journals, covering topics such as woody species composition, ethnobotanical knowledge of wild edible plants, and the regeneration status of local forests. His academic work is complemented by practical community service research, such as nutrient profiling and minimum tillage demonstrations. Through teaching undergraduate courses and guiding students, Kindye plays a vital role in shaping the next generation of plant scientists. His ongoing projects reflect a commitment to addressing both scientific and practical challenges in Ethiopian forestry and plant science. Though still in the earlier stages of his research career, his dedication, technical expertise, and publication record position him as a promising figure in the field.

Professional Profile

Education

Kindye Belaye Wassie completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Biology at Debre Tabor University, Ethiopia, from 2011 to 2014. Building on this foundation, he pursued a Master of Science degree in Biology, with a specialization in Botanical Sciences, at Bahir Dar University, where he graduated in 2019. His educational path reflects a strong focus on plant biology, taxonomy, and ecological systems, providing him with the scientific grounding necessary for his research on forest ecosystems. Through his formal academic training, Kindye gained essential knowledge of biological principles, laboratory methods, plant ecology, and data analysis techniques. These degrees have prepared him not only for research roles but also for university-level teaching. His educational progression shows a steady commitment to advancing his expertise in botanical sciences and positions him well for doctoral-level research or more advanced academic roles in the future. With his combination of foundational biological training and specialized botanical studies, Kindye has built the expertise needed to investigate critical issues related to biodiversity, conservation, and the resilience of forest ecosystems.

Professional Experience

Kindye Belaye Wassie has accumulated a decade of professional experience in both academic support and research roles. From September 2014 to October 2022, he served as Chief Laboratory Assistant at the Department of Biology, Debre Tabor University. In this role, he developed strong technical expertise in biological laboratory operations, supporting research projects and educational activities. Since November 2022, he has been a lecturer and researcher at Bahir Dar University, where he teaches undergraduate courses in plant taxonomy, plant ecology, plant morphology and anatomy, ethnobotany, and plant physiology. His teaching duties are complemented by an active research agenda focusing on forest biodiversity, conservation, and ecosystem resilience. In addition to academic teaching and research, Kindye engages in community service research projects, such as demonstrating minimum tillage techniques for local farmers. His professional experience reflects a balanced combination of laboratory management, classroom teaching, fieldwork, and scholarly research, which together build a strong foundation for his future academic and research career.

Research Interest

Kindye Belaye Wassie’s primary research interest lies in understanding how forest biodiversity influences the function and resilience of forest ecosystems. He aims to integrate various biological groupings into unified frameworks that inform conservation and sustainable management practices. His work seeks to address critical challenges such as species composition changes, regeneration status, and ecosystem responses to environmental pressures. By focusing on biodiversity, Kindye’s research contributes to the development of conservation strategies that help preserve the ecological integrity and long-term viability of Ethiopian forests. In addition to ecological studies, he explores ethnobotanical knowledge, examining how local communities use wild edible plants and the cultural significance of plant resources. His research encompasses both theoretical and applied dimensions, linking scientific understanding with real-world conservation and resource management challenges. Ultimately, Kindye’s research interest reflects a commitment to advancing knowledge that supports both biodiversity preservation and community well-being in ecologically sensitive regions.

Research Skills

Kindye Belaye Wassie possesses a wide range of research skills that enhance his capacity as a plant scientist. He is proficient in biological laboratory techniques, including plant identification, vegetation data collection, culturing fungal pathogens, and conducting microbiology assays such as media preparation and bacterial culturing. His data analysis skills include using statistical software such as SPSS and R programming, allowing him to handle quantitative ecological and ethnobotanical data effectively. In the field, he has experience designing and implementing ecological surveys, assessing species composition, and evaluating regeneration status in forest areas. Kindye also has expertise in phytochemical screening, nutrient profiling, and soil quality assessments, which are critical for applied research projects focused on ecosystem rehabilitation. His communication and interpersonal skills support his ability to collaborate with colleagues, engage with local communities, and present findings at conferences. Collectively, these research skills position him to conduct robust, multi-faceted studies that integrate laboratory, field, and analytical approaches in the service of conservation and ecological research.

Awards and Honors

While Kindye Belaye Wassie has not yet received major research awards, he has earned certificates for presenting his work at both national and international conferences. These recognitions reflect his engagement with the broader scientific community and his willingness to share and discuss his research findings. Participation in academic conferences provides valuable opportunities for networking, feedback, and professional development. Although the award record is still developing, his growing publication list and active research projects indicate the potential for future recognition as his career progresses. Strengthening his awards portfolio by applying for research grants, early-career fellowships, or conservation prizes would further enhance his academic profile. Overall, his current honors and conference participation highlight his commitment to scholarly engagement and his emerging presence in the field of plant science and forest ecology research.

Conclusion

Kindye Belaye Wassie demonstrates solid potential as a researcher in plant sciences, with a particular focus on biodiversity, conservation, and ethnobotanical knowledge. His educational background, professional experience, and research outputs position him well within the Ethiopian academic landscape, and his recent publications show a clear commitment to advancing scientific understanding of forest ecosystems. While his profile is still in the early to mid stages of development, especially regarding high-impact publications, international collaborations, and major research awards, he shows promise as an emerging scholar. To strengthen his candidacy for high-level research awards, he may benefit from expanding his international research network, pursuing larger collaborative projects, and seeking leadership roles in grant-funded initiatives. Overall, Kindye’s combination of scientific expertise, teaching contributions, and applied research efforts makes him a valuable contributor to the field, and with continued professional growth, he has the potential to achieve broader research impact and recognition in the future.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Ethnobotanical Study of Wild-Edible Plants in Simada District, South Gondar Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
    Journal: Ethnobiology Letters
    Publication Date:Authors: Kindye Belaye Wassie2024-12-26
    Authors: Kindye Belaye Wassie

  2. Title: Woody species composition, structure and regeneration status of Alka forest Beyeda District, North Gondar Zone, Amhara Region, Northern Ethiopia
    Journal: BMC Plant Biology
    Publication Date: 2024- 11- 21 DOI: 10.1186/ s12870- 024- 05822- x Authors: Kindye Belaye Wassie; Getnet Chekole W2024-11-21
    DOI: 10.1186/s12870-024-05822-x
    Authors: Kindye Belaye Wassie; Getnet Chekole Walle; Assefa Tasew Alemnew

  3. Title: Ethnobotanical Study of Wild Edible Plants and Their Indigenous Knowledge in Sedie Muja District, South Gondar Zone, Northwestern Ethiopia
    Journal: American Journal of Plant Sciences
    Publication Date: 2022-02-23
    Authors: Kindye Belaye Wassie

Lucas Msimo | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Lucas Msimo | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Senior Agriculture Officer assistant to academician from Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania

Lucas James Msimo is a dedicated agricultural scientist and development practitioner from Tanzania, with broad expertise in plant pathology, virology, entomology, agronomy, and rural agricultural economics. He currently serves as a Senior Agricultural Officer and scientist at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), where he contributes to research, practical teaching, and agricultural extension. Lucas’s work emphasizes crop productivity, plant disease management, pest control, and sustainable agricultural practices. He has over two decades of experience in agricultural extension, research supervision, and project implementation. Lucas is fluent in both English and Swahili, which facilitates his outreach across local and international networks. Currently pursuing his PhD in Crop Science and Technology at the University of Dar es Salaam, Lucas is actively engaged in research projects, particularly focusing on viral diseases affecting cassava, such as CBSD and CMD. His dedication to improving food security and agricultural sustainability in Tanzania positions him as a promising researcher. With several research papers accepted for publication and a strong commitment to advancing agricultural science, Lucas Msimo exemplifies the qualities of a motivated, practice-oriented scientist contributing significantly to the agricultural development sector.

Professional Profile

Education

Lucas Msimo’s educational journey reflects a steady progression in agricultural science and research. He completed a Diploma in General Agriculture at MATI-Ilonga in 2004, which laid the foundation for his agricultural training. He advanced to earn a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture General from Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) in 2008, deepening his knowledge in crop and livestock production. His pursuit of advanced international education took him to Hankyong National University in South Korea, where he completed an MSc in Agriculture and Rural Development in 2012, gaining exposure to global agricultural challenges and solutions. Currently, Lucas is pursuing a PhD in Crop Science and Technology (Plant Pathology and Virology) at the University of Dar es Salaam, focusing his research on viral diseases in cassava, a key food security crop. His academic progression demonstrates a clear focus on integrating agricultural science with practical solutions to pressing agricultural problems. Alongside his formal degrees, Lucas has engaged in continuous learning, completing training and workshops on topics like presentation techniques, traditional restoration methods, and advanced software tools, reflecting his commitment to personal and professional development.

Professional Experience

Lucas Msimo has built a multifaceted professional career, beginning as an Agricultural Field Officer and Extension Personnel at Kibaha Town Council from 2004 to 2018. In this role, he worked closely with farmers to promote better agronomic practices, livestock management, and agribusiness entrepreneurship. Since 2018, he has been serving as an Agricultural Officer and Crop Specialist Scientist at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), where he contributes not only to research but also to teaching and practical demonstrations for students. Lucas’s role includes supporting faculty in research activities related to plant pathology, entomology, and applied agricultural sciences. His professional path also involves designing and supervising agricultural research projects, monitoring and evaluating local and international development initiatives, and translating research findings into practical applications for farmers and stakeholders. His work is grounded in real-world agricultural challenges, particularly plant diseases, pest management, and crop productivity improvement. Through his combination of field experience, academic involvement, and research engagement, Lucas has become a respected figure in the Tanzanian agricultural research and development community.

Research Interest

Lucas Msimo’s research interests center on plant pathology and virology, with a special focus on the detection, management, and control of viral diseases affecting key staple crops like cassava. He is particularly interested in combating cassava brown streak disease (CBSD) and cassava mosaic disease (CMD), both of which threaten food security across East Africa. Beyond plant virology, Lucas is engaged in research on agricultural entomology, exploring pest dynamics and their impact on crop health. He is also interested in weed science, agronomy, and the broader implications of plant diseases and pests on agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. His research extends to the design and implementation of agricultural development projects, impact assessments, and applied monitoring and evaluation strategies that inform national and international agricultural programs. With a strong interest in integrating research into extension services, Lucas is committed to ensuring that scientific insights lead to practical improvements in farming systems, thereby supporting the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and enhancing food security outcomes in Tanzania and the wider region.

Research Skills

Lucas Msimo has developed a comprehensive set of research skills over his academic and professional career. He is proficient in designing and conducting agricultural research, particularly in the areas of plant pathology, virology, entomology, and agronomy. Lucas possesses expertise in laboratory and field experimentation, including pathogen detection, disease assessment, and pest management trials. He is skilled in data collection, analysis, and interpretation, using tools like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for documentation and presentation. Lucas is also experienced in drafting research proposals, writing scholarly articles, and supervising agricultural projects at both local and international levels. His capacity to bridge research with agricultural extension is a notable strength, as he applies scientific findings to real-world farming contexts. Additionally, Lucas has participated in training programs on presentation techniques, historical restoration methods, and software applications, expanding his technical toolkit. His bilingual abilities in English and Swahili further enhance his research communication skills, enabling him to collaborate effectively with diverse academic, governmental, and community stakeholders.

Awards and Honors

Although Lucas Msimo’s profile does not list major research awards or honors to date, his selection for the PhD-SIDA Funded Food Security Scholarship Programme is a significant academic achievement, reflecting his research potential and commitment to improving cassava productivity through disease control. His prior academic achievements, including earning an MSc in Agriculture and Rural Development from Hankyong National University in South Korea, signal international recognition of his capacity as a researcher and practitioner. Lucas’s ongoing publication efforts, with several research papers accepted in reputable journals and additional review articles under consideration, further position him as an emerging contributor to the scientific community. His long-term dedication to agricultural extension services and applied research at Sokoine University of Agriculture demonstrates professional respect and recognition in Tanzania’s agricultural sector. While his formal awards portfolio may still be developing, Lucas’s achievements so far lay a promising foundation for future research distinctions, both nationally and internationally, as his scholarly impact continues to grow.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lucas Msimo is a dedicated and experienced agricultural scientist whose career bridges practical agricultural extension, research, and academic teaching. His ongoing PhD studies in plant pathology and virology, combined with over two decades of field and institutional experience, position him as a strong contributor to Tanzania’s agricultural research landscape. Lucas’s commitment to addressing major agricultural challenges, such as cassava viral diseases, reflects both scientific rigor and social relevance, as these issues directly affect food security and rural livelihoods. While his publication record and formal research awards are still developing, his active engagement in research projects, publication efforts, and international collaborations show promising momentum. Lucas’s combination of practical skills, academic training, and research interests makes him well-suited for recognition as an emerging researcher. However, to compete for top-level research awards, continued focus on publishing high-impact work, expanding his research leadership roles, and gaining broader scientific visibility will be essential. Overall, Lucas Msimo stands out as a dedicated, evolving researcher with the potential to make significant contributions to agricultural science and development.