Gyana Ranjan Rout | Plant Science | Best Review Paper Award

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Prof. Gyana Ranjan Rout | Plant Science | Best Review Paper Award

Professor from Sikshia O Anusandhan Deemed To be University, India

Prof. Gyana Ranjan Rout is a distinguished Indian plant biotechnologist, currently serving as Professor and Head of the Department of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture at S’O’A Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar. With a strong academic foundation and over three decades of experience in the fields of plant cell culture, molecular biology, and genetic improvement, he has made significant contributions to agricultural biotechnology. A recipient of the prestigious D.Sc. degree, Prof. Rout has also pursued advanced research at internationally reputed institutions in the UK, Japan, Belgium, and Germany. His work spans various domains including conservation of biodiversity, crop improvement, and medicinal plant research. He is recognized not only for his scholarly publications, including numerous review articles, but also for his leadership in academia, policy-making committees, and national-level scientific platforms. As a resource person and keynote speaker, he has influenced the direction of biotechnology education and research across India. Prof. Rout’s involvement in various academic boards and faculty selection committees also highlights his leadership in shaping future generations of scientists. His credentials, accolades, and continued contributions mark him as one of the leading voices in plant biotechnology research in India.

Professional Profile

Education

Prof. Rout’s educational journey began in Odisha, India, where he earned his High School Certificate from the Board of Secondary Education in 1978. He then pursued a B.Sc. (Hons) in Botany from BJB College, affiliated with Utkal University, graduating in 1982. His keen interest in plant sciences led him to complete an M.Sc. in Botany with specialization in Plant Biochemistry from Ravenshaw College under Utkal University in 1984. He earned his Ph.D. in Botany in 1991 from Utkal University with a specialization in plant cell culture, a foundational area that laid the groundwork for his future research in plant biotechnology. Further establishing his academic distinction, Prof. Rout achieved a D.Sc. in Botany from the same university in 2001, with a focus on plant improvement, signifying his advanced contribution to scientific research and knowledge. His educational qualifications are complemented by prestigious postdoctoral fellowships and visiting scientist positions at globally respected institutions, including Chiba University (Japan), University of East London (UK), KU Leuven (Belgium), and Federal Research Centre for Ornamental and Plant Breeding (Germany). This international exposure enhanced his scientific perspective and positioned him as a globally-informed scholar in the field of agricultural biotechnology.

Professional Experience

Prof. Gyana Ranjan Rout’s professional trajectory reflects a blend of academic excellence and applied research leadership. He began his career as a Senior Research Fellow at the Regional Plant Resource Centre (RPRC), Bhubaneswar, from 1986 to 1991, focusing on plant biotechnology. He continued at RPRC, first as Scientist and then as Senior Scientist, until 2009. During this period, he led and contributed to numerous government-supported projects in plant conservation, genetic improvement, and biotechnology. In 2009, he transitioned to academia as Professor & Head of Agricultural Biotechnology at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, and currently holds the same position at S’O’A Deemed to be University. His career is further distinguished by international research fellowships: a BOYSCAST fellowship in Japan, British Council-funded tenure in the UK, FAO-IAEA funded visit to Belgium, and a DBT-Overseas award to Germany. He has also served as an expert on multiple selection committees, and as a member of Boards of Studies in several universities. Beyond research, he has been a lead speaker and panelist in numerous national and international conferences and workshops. His dual role as a researcher and administrator reflects his balanced contribution to both scientific advancement and academic institution-building.

Research Interest

Prof. Rout’s research interests lie primarily in plant biotechnology, with a core focus on plant cell and tissue culture, molecular biology, plant genetic improvement, and biotechnological applications for sustainable agriculture. His work encompasses in vitro propagation, somatic embryogenesis, cryopreservation, molecular marker-assisted selection, and genetic transformation of plants. He has also made significant contributions to the conservation and utilization of medicinal and aromatic plants. Prof. Rout is particularly interested in the application of biotechnological tools to address environmental challenges such as wastewater reuse in agriculture and water use efficiency in crops. His work is interdisciplinary, merging classical botany with cutting-edge molecular techniques to develop novel solutions for agricultural resilience and crop improvement. He also explores the phytochemical and pharmacological aspects of plant species, with a vision to integrate biotechnology in health and nutrition. His research has implications not just for academic development but also for practical implementation in agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and rural development. Prof. Rout’s commitment to translational research ensures that the knowledge generated in his lab reaches farmers, stakeholders, and policy frameworks. His vision is rooted in sustainable, science-based solutions to food security and ecological conservation.

Research Skills

Prof. Rout possesses an extensive repertoire of research skills spanning the molecular to organismal levels. His core strengths include plant tissue culture techniques such as micropropagation, organogenesis, and somatic embryogenesis. He is well-versed in molecular marker techniques including RAPD, ISSR, AFLP, and SSR for genetic diversity analysis and marker-assisted selection. His expertise also covers genetic transformation using Agrobacterium-mediated and biolistic methods. Prof. Rout has hands-on experience in secondary metabolite analysis using chromatographic and spectrophotometric techniques. In addition, he has implemented cryopreservation protocols for long-term conservation of germplasm. He has coordinated multidisciplinary projects that integrate molecular biology, biotechnology, and environmental management. His laboratory management skills include training of postgraduate and doctoral students, troubleshooting complex experiments, and publishing in peer-reviewed journals. He is proficient in data interpretation, scientific writing, and editing, contributing significantly as an editor and reviewer in reputed international journals. Prof. Rout also engages in collaborative research, working with institutions in India and abroad, thereby fostering cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural research exchange. His skills make him a well-rounded researcher capable of leading high-impact studies from concept to publication.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his illustrious career, Prof. Gyana Ranjan Rout has received numerous awards and honors, reflecting his substantial contributions to science, education, and public service. He holds the distinguished D.Sc. degree in Botany, a rare honor that underlines his high level of scholarly achievement. He is a Fellow of the National Academy of Sciences, India (FNASc), Fellow of the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (FNAAS), and a Fellow of the Indian Society of Plant Genetic Resources (FISPGR), which collectively recognize his leadership in plant science research. He has been the recipient of prestigious international fellowships including the BOYSCAST Fellowship from DST, India; a British Council award for research in the UK; and FAO-IAEA sponsorship for work in Belgium. His overseas award from the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, enabled him to conduct advanced research in Germany. Prof. Rout has been an invited speaker, chairperson, and lead expert at numerous national and international scientific events. His selection as a subject expert for faculty recruitment and academic governance across several universities further affirms his authority in the field. These recognitions underscore his influence as both a scholar and mentor in the scientific community.

Conclusion

Prof. Gyana Ranjan Rout exemplifies excellence in plant biotechnology research, education, and institutional leadership. With a career marked by international exposure, prolific scientific output, and active participation in policy and academic governance, he stands out as a pioneer in his field. His holistic approach to research—balancing theoretical knowledge with practical applications—has greatly contributed to the advancement of sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation in India. Prof. Rout’s ability to merge classical botanical sciences with molecular techniques has opened new pathways for crop improvement, medicinal plant research, and environmental biotechnology. He continues to serve as a mentor to the next generation of scientists, nurturing talent through teaching, supervision, and active involvement in scientific forums. His numerous awards and fellowships are testament to the global impact of his work. Looking ahead, Prof. Rout’s ongoing efforts are expected to yield innovative solutions to contemporary agricultural and environmental challenges. His legacy, built on dedication, integrity, and scientific rigor, sets a benchmark for excellence in biosciences and continues to inspire peers and students alike.

Publications Top Notes

1. Studies on Cadmium Toxicity in Plants: A Review

  • Authors: P. Das, S. Samantaray, G.R. Rout

  • Journal: Environmental Pollution, 1997

  • Citations: 1764

  • Summary: This foundational review outlines cadmium’s phytotoxic effects on plant growth, physiology, and biochemistry. It highlights mechanisms of uptake, detoxification, and tolerance, serving as a key reference in environmental and plant sciences.

2. Role of Iron in Plant Growth and Metabolism

  • Authors: G.R. Rout, S. Sahoo

  • Journal: Reviews in Agricultural Science, 2015

  • Citations: 1134

  • Summary: This comprehensive review emphasizes iron’s crucial roles in photosynthesis, respiration, and enzymatic activity in plants, discussing both deficiency and toxicity effects on agricultural productivity.

3. Effect of Metal Toxicity on Plant Growth and Metabolism: I. Zinc

  • Authors: G.R. Rout, P. Das

  • Book Chapter: Sustainable Agriculture, 2009

  • Citations: 783

  • Summary: The study investigates zinc toxicity and its biochemical and physiological disruptions in plants, particularly its role in oxidative stress and nutrient imbalances.

4. Aluminium Toxicity in Plants: A Review

  • Authors: G. Rout, S. Samantaray, P. Das

  • Journal: Agronomie, 2001

  • Citations: 680

  • Summary: The paper explores aluminium’s inhibitory effects on root growth and cellular processes, emphasizing plant adaptation mechanisms under acidic soil conditions.

5. In Vitro Manipulation and Propagation of Medicinal Plants

  • Authors: G.R. Rout, S. Samantaray, P. Das

  • Journal: Biotechnology Advances, 2000

  • Citations: 512

  • Summary: This work reviews tissue culture techniques for conservation and large-scale propagation of medicinal plants, with implications for pharmacognosy and biodiversity conservation.

6. Tissue Culture of Ornamental Pot Plant: A Critical Review

  • Authors: G.R. Rout, A. Mohapatra, S.M. Jain

  • Journal: Biotechnology Advances, 2006

  • Citations: 457

  • Summary: A detailed analysis of micropropagation techniques in ornamental horticulture, highlighting challenges and future prospects in commercial flower production.

7. Effect of Auxins on Adventitious Root Development in Camellia sinensis

  • Author: G.R. Rout

  • Journal: Plant Growth Regulation, 2006

  • Citations: 254

  • Summary: This study investigates the effect of various auxins on root formation and associated biochemical changes in tea plants, relevant to propagation strategies.

8. Effects of Chromium and Nickel on Germination and Growth

  • Authors: G.R. Rout, S. Samantaray, P. Das

  • Journal: Chemosphere, 2000

  • Citations: 192

  • Summary: Comparative analysis of metal tolerance in different Echinochloa colona populations, shedding light on phytotoxicity mechanisms.

9. Determination of Genetic Stability in Micropropagated Ginger Using RAPD

  • Authors: G.R. Rout, P. Das, S. Goel, S.N. Raina

  • Journal: Botanical Bulletin of Academia Sinica, 1998

  • Citations: 177

  • Summary: The study confirms the genetic fidelity of micropropagated ginger through RAPD analysis, validating the reliability of clonal propagation.

10. Biotechnology of the Rose: A Review of Recent Progress

  • Authors: G.R. Rout, S. Samantaray, J. Mottley, P. Das

  • Journal: Scientia Horticulturae, 1999

  • Citations: 172

  • Summary: An overview of biotechnological advances in rose improvement, including tissue culture, genetic transformation, and molecular markers.

 

 

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